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Power Systems Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Experience designing, deploying, and optimizing high-voltage (HV) and medium/low-voltage (MV/LV) power systems (e.g., protection, controls, microgrids, on-site generation). * Knowledge of the ...

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Power Systems information

What is a power system and what does a power systems professional do?

Power systems refer to the networks and infrastructure used to generate, transmit, distribute, and utilize electrical energy. Professionals working in power systems design, analyze, operate, and maintain components such as power plants, transmission lines, substations, and distribution networks. They ensure that electricity is delivered safely, efficiently, and reliably to homes, businesses, and industries. Their work is essential for supporting modern society’s energy needs and integrating renewable energy sources. Careers in this field often require a strong background in electrical engineering and problem-solving skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, power distribution, and grid operations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with power systems analysis software (such as ETAP or PSS®E), SCADA systems, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These capabilities are critical for ensuring reliable, efficient, and safe operation of electrical power networks.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in power systems, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in power systems often encounter challenges such as integrating renewable energy sources, ensuring grid reliability, and maintaining aging infrastructure. Balancing the load and responding to unexpected outages requires strong analytical skills and effective teamwork with engineers, operators, and IT specialists. Staying updated with evolving regulations and technology is crucial, and many organizations support ongoing training and cross-departmental collaboration to address these challenges proactively.

What is the difference between Power Systems vs Power Distribution?

AspectPower SystemsPower Distribution
CertificationsPE licenses, Electrical Engineering degreesPE licenses, Electrical Engineering degrees
Work EnvironmentPower plants, substations, grid infrastructureLocal substations, commercial and residential buildings
Industry UsageGeneration, transmission, and large-scale grid managementDistribution of electricity to end-users
Job FocusDesigning, analyzing, and maintaining power generation and transmission systemsManaging the delivery of electricity from substations to consumers

Power Systems professionals focus on the generation, transmission, and overall management of electrical power at a large scale, often working on grid infrastructure. Power Distribution specialists concentrate on delivering electricity safely and efficiently to end-users, handling local distribution networks. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, their primary responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Are power systems in demand?

Power systems professionals are in high demand due to the ongoing need for reliable energy infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and modernization of electrical grids. Skills in system design, maintenance, and troubleshooting are highly valued, and certifications such as PE or NABCEP can enhance job prospects in this field.

What does a power systems technician do?

A power systems technician installs, maintains, and repairs electrical power equipment such as generators, transformers, and switchgear. They troubleshoot electrical issues, ensure system safety, and often work with control systems and testing tools in industrial or utility environments. Certification and knowledge of electrical codes are typically required for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Power Systems jobs in Virginia?

For Power Systems jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Power Systems job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Power Systems Engineer

Google

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Google rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

info_outline
X In accordance with Washington state law, we are highlighting our comprehensive benefits package, which is available to all eligible US based employees. Benefits for this role include:
  • Health, dental, vision, life, disability insurance
  • Retirement Benefits: 401(k) with company match
  • Paid Time Off: 20 days of vacation per year, accruing at a rate of 6.15 hours per pay period for the first five years of employment
  • Sick Time: 40 hours/year (increased to 69 hours/year for Seattle) including 5 discretionary sick days per instance
  • Maternity Leave (Short-Term Disability Baby Bonding): 28-30 weeks
  • Baby Bonding Leave: 18 weeks
  • Holidays: 13 paid days per year
Note: By applying to this position you will have an opportunity to share your preferred working location from the following: Reston, VA, USA; Kirkland, WA, USA; Sunnyvale, CA, USA; Austin, TX, USA.
Minimum qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
  • 12 years of experience in mission critical facility design and construction environments.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field, or a Professional Engineer (PE) license.
  • Experience designing, deploying, and optimizing high-voltage (HV) and medium/low-voltage (MV/LV) power systems (e.g., protection, controls, microgrids, on-site generation).
  • Knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and relevant building codes.
  • Ability to steer architectural direction across matrixed engineering teams through strong technical credibility and indirect influence.
  • Ability to align executive technical leaders to establish and execute technology roadmaps.
  • Demonstrated track record of defining and executing long-term technical strategies/architectural goals for global data center infrastructure development teams.

About the job
Our thirst for technology is a part of everything we do. The Data Center Engineering team takes the physical design of our data centers into the future. Our lab mirrors a research and development department -- cutting-edge strategies are born, tested and tested again. Along with a team of great minds, you take on complex topics like how we use power or how to run state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly facilities. You're a visionary who optimizes for efficiencies and never stops seeking improvements -- even small changes that can make a huge impact. You generate ideas, communicate recommendations to senior-level executives and drive implementation alongside facilities technicians.
With your technical expertise, you ensure compliance with codes and standards, develop infrastructure improvements and serve as an expert in your specialty (e.g., cooling, electrical).
Google's custom-designed infrastructure powers one of the largest, most efficient computing systems in the world. In this role, you will shape the future of our data centers, pioneering next-generation power architectures where physical infrastructure meets IT. You will lead revolutionary development initiatives alongside Google's Hardware, Software, Supply Chain, and Operations teams. By steering internal engineering and driving external industry collaboration, you will provide the visionary technical direction needed to scale our global footprint for the AI era.
Individual pay is determined by factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
US: $214000 - $298000 (USD) 25% bonus target equity benefits
Learn more about benefits at Google .
Responsibilities
  • Lead the design and optimization of data center equipment, systems, and global operational strategies.
  • Oversee system development across electrical, power, energy, and control systems to optimize design efficiency.
  • Analyze system performance data and present technical tradeoffs clearly to support executive-level decision-making. Work with internal and external partners to design for constructability, reducing costs and delivery times.
  • Refine engineering processes to eliminate waste while preserving and scaling successful practices.
  • Influence cross-functional teams to develop and deliver technical solutions and shared technical goals. Collaborate closely with cross-functional partners to ensure alignment across teams.

Information collected and processed as part of your Google Careers profile, and any job applications you choose to submit is subject to Google's Applicant and Candidate Privacy Policy .
Google is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are committed to building a workforce that is representative of the users we serve, creating a culture of belonging, and providing an equal employment opportunity regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), expecting or parents-to-be, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other basis protected by law. See also Google's EEO Policy , Know your rights: workplace discrimination is illegal , Belonging at Google , and How we hire .
If you have a need that requires accommodation, please let us know by completing our Accommodations for Applicants form .
Google is a global company and, in order to facilitate efficient collaboration and communication globally, English proficiency is a requirement for all roles unless stated otherwise in the job posting.
To all recruitment agencies: Google does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Google employees, or any other organization location. Google is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Equity is granted exclusively and discretionarily by Alphabet Inc. on the basis of an agreement concluded between you and Alphabet Inc. Alphabet Inc. is your sole contractual partner with respect to equity grants. GSU grants are not guaranteed, are discretionary, are subject to approval by the Alphabet Inc. board of directors or its delegate, the terms of the relevant Alphabet Inc. stock plan, and your grant agreement. They have no impact on statutory payments. Current or past grants do not confer an acquired right.

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