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Principal Electrical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Electrical Engineer

Billings, MT ยท On-site

$136K - $167K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Duration: long-term Location: Billings, MT or Bismarck, ND Schedule: 9/80 Position Overview Airswift is recruiting for a Principal Electrical Engineer on behalf of a ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$146K - $178K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Duration: 12-months Location: Long Beach, CA Position Overview This opportunity is for a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead electrical engineering delivery across a ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Eden Prairie, MN ยท On-site

$141K - $173K/yr

Prioritized Must Have Skills for the Principal Electrical Engineer: #1. Must have at least 15yrs of Electrical engineering exp. #2. Must have working knowledge of oscilloscopes, logic analyzers ...

Senior Principal Electrical Engineer

Reading, PA ยท On-site

$133K - $163K/yr

Senior Principal Electrical Engineer Duration: 6 months Location: Reading, Pennsylvania/Kansas City, Missouri/Charlotte, North Carolina Position Overview This opportunity is for a Senior Principal ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$138K - $169K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Location: Manchester, NH Full-time | On-site Summary: The company is an industry leader in the design and manufacture of power conversion and networking solutions for ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Moundsview, MN

$147K - $180K/yr

The Principal Electrical Engineer will work with an experienced electrical engineering team on the electrical engineering aspects of a new capital equipment platform, with a primary focus on ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$138K - $169K/yr

The Principal Electrical Engineer will define technical strategy, influence product architecture, ensure robust, scalable, and manufacturable electrical solutions. Essential Functions: * Lead the ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$138K - $169K/yr

The Principal Electrical Engineer will define technical strategy, influence product architecture, ensure robust, scalable, and manufacturable electrical solutions. Essential Functions: * Lead the ...

Principal Electrical Engineer-MN

Shoreview, MN ยท On-site

$140K - $171K/yr

Job Title: Principal Electrical Engineer Job Type: Contract Duration: 12-months Location: Shoreview, MN Shift: 8am to 5pm -----No C2C/H1B-----Only W2----- Position Description: The Principal ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Shoreview, MN ยท On-site

$140K - $171K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Job Type: Contract Duration: 12-months Location: Shoreview, MN 55126 Shift: 8am to 5pm Note: W2 candidates only. No C2C or third party vendors Position Description: The ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Moundsview, MN ยท On-site

$147K - $180K/yr

The Principal Electrical Engineer will work with an experienced electrical engineering team on the electrical engineering aspects of a new capital equipment platform, with a primary focus on ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Moundsview, MN ยท On-site

$147K - $180K/yr

The Principal Electrical Engineer will work with an experienced electrical engineering team on the electrical engineering aspects of a new capital equipment platform, with a primary focus on ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Charlotte, NC ยท On-site

$165K - $210K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Charlotte, NC Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $165,000 - $210,000 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/weekly minimum System One is seeking a Principal Electrical ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Charlotte, NC ยท On-site

$165K - $210K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Charlotte, NC Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $165,000 - $210,000 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/weekly minimum System One is seeking a Principal Electrical ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Moundsview, MN ยท On-site

$147K - $180K/yr

The Principal Electrical Engineer will apply knowledge of RF design, RF energy delivery, circuit card design, digital hardware design, FPGA, SOM, hardware/software interfaces electrical engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

Principal Electrical Engineer information

See salary details

$98.5K

$154.8K

$205K

How much do principal electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal electrical engineer in the United States is $154,823.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,000.00 and $170,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a principal electrical engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

As a Principal Electrical Engineer, you will frequently work with multidisciplinary teams including mechanical, civil, and software engineers, as well as project managers and clients. Your role often involves leading technical discussions, providing guidance on electrical design solutions, and ensuring that electrical systems integrate seamlessly with other engineering disciplines. Effective communication and coordination are key, as you may also mentor junior engineers and facilitate design reviews to align project goals. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and ensures that complex projects are delivered efficiently and safely.

What does a principal electrical engineer do?

A principal electrical engineer leads the design, development, and testing of electrical systems and components, often overseeing projects and providing technical guidance. They typically have advanced knowledge of circuit design, power systems, and industry standards, and may hold certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE). Their role involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and ensuring compliance with safety and quality regulations.

How much does a principal electrical engineer earn?

A principal electrical engineer typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior-level roles often require advanced skills in circuit design, project management, and relevant certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer).

What is a principal electrical engineer?

A principal electrical engineer serves as a project manager for electrical-related building or construction projects. In this role, your job duties may include designing electrical devices, ensuring proper installation, inspecting completed electrical work, and providing work estimates. You may also supervise a staff of junior engineers, overseeing their work, and ensure that the project is completed within the allotted timeframe and budget. Principal electrical engineers are often the liaison between the engineering team and upper management. You must create reports and communicate regular updates on the status of each project to ensure each stage is meeting deadline expectations.

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

To thrive as a Principal Electrical Engineer, you need advanced expertise in electrical engineering principles, project management, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Mastery of design software (such as AutoCAD and MATLAB), familiarity with industry standards (like IEEE), and experience with simulation and analysis tools are essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills enable effective team management and cross-functional collaboration. These skills ensure successful project delivery, innovation, and compliance with regulatory and safety standards in complex engineering environments.

What is the difference between Principal Electrical Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Electrical EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering; often advanced certifications or extensive experienceBachelor's degree in electrical engineering; entry to mid-level certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee projects, lead teams in industries like manufacturing, power, or electronicsDesign, develop, test electrical systems, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large corporations, consulting firms, and project leadership rolesCommon in engineering firms, manufacturing, and construction projects

The Principal Electrical Engineer typically holds more experience, leadership responsibilities, and advanced certifications compared to an Electrical Engineer. They focus on project oversight, strategic planning, and team leadership, while Electrical Engineers are more involved in technical design and development tasks.

What cities are hiring for Principal Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Electrical Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Electrical Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Principal Electrical Engineer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Electrical Engineer jobs?

The top employers for Principal Electrical Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Principal Electrical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Electrical Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Principal Electrical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $154,823 per year, or $74.4 per hour.

Principal Electrical Engineer

Airswift

Billings, MT โ€ข On-site

$136K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Principal Electrical Engineer
Duration: long-term
Location: Billings, MT or Bismarck, ND
Schedule: 9/80
Position Overview
Airswift is recruiting for a Principal Electrical Engineer on behalf of a third-party company for a technically demanding opportunity within the oil and gas sector. This Principal Electrical Engineer position is focused on leading electrical engineering delivery across a portfolio of projects, providing technical leadership, supervision, and oversight to engineering and design teams. The Principal Electrical Engineer will play a key role in maintaining quality, safety, compliance, and project performance across multi-disciplinary project environments. This opportunity offers strong scope for impact for a Principal Electrical Engineer with deep technical expertise and leadership capability. Candidates seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer role with responsibility across project delivery, team leadership, and client-facing coordination are encouraged to apply.
Role Context
This opportunity sits within the oil, gas, and chemical project environment and involves delivery across multi-disciplinary engineering teams. The role supports electrical engineering work from conception through procurement, construction, and commissioning, with a focus on quality, compliance, and on-time execution. The working environment includes close collaboration with project management, other engineering disciplines, and client stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and oversee electrical engineering delivery across a portfolio of oil, gas, and chemical projects.
  • Manage and mentor a team of electrical engineers and designers, assigning work, supervising progress, and supporting technical development.
  • Plan, organise, and direct engineering activities to achieve safe, high-quality, and timely project outcomes.
  • Provide technical leadership on electrical engineering scope, including review of deliverables and guidance on technical direction.
  • Collaborate with project management, client stakeholders, and other engineering disciplines to meet project objectives.
  • Support procurement, construction, and commissioning activities, including preparation of requisitions, technical bid evaluations, and purchase order input.
  • Ensure project scope is clearly understood and that changes are managed in line with project change processes.
  • Resolve discrepancies between project requirements and customer requirements through proactive technical problem-solving.
  • Prepare progress updates, participate in relevant meetings, and follow required checking and quality procedures.
  • If required, act as Electrical Engineering Lead on specific projects while supporting other lead engineers within the wider programme.
Qualifications & Experience
  • Essential: BS or MS degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • Essential: Extensive practical and technical electrical engineering experience in the oil and gas industry, including multi-disciplinary project environments.
  • Essential: 12+ years of industry experience.
  • Essential: Strong knowledge of electrical engineering fundamentals and a sound understanding of related engineering disciplines.
  • Essential: Experience in the development and design of MV and LV electrical distribution systems, equipment selection, protective relay selection, and power management system configuration.
  • Essential: Experience performing or reviewing power systems studies and protective device settings.
  • Essential: Strong knowledge of applicable local and international standards and statutory and regulatory requirements.
  • Essential: Competent use of MS Office Suite and relevant electrical engineering software including ETAP and SPL.
  • Essential: Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, with proven leadership and problem-solving capability.
  • Desirable: Relevant postgraduate qualifications in engineering, management, project management, supervisory studies, or equivalent.
  • Desirable: Professional Engineer (PE) status in the US.
About the Company
This company is a recognised provider of engineering, procurement, and construction management services with established expertise in upstream energy projects. Operations in the US support both domestic clients and major international project delivery across a range of large-scale energy developments.
About Airswift
Airswift is an international workforce solutions provider within the energy, process and infrastructure industries. Airswift serves as a strategic partner to clients, offering a turnkey workforce solution to capture and deliver the top talent needed to complete successful projects by aligning with unique hiring needs. With over 1000 employees and 9,000 contractors operating in over 60 countries, Airswift's geographical reach and pool of talent available is unmatched in the industry. If this Principal Electrical Engineer opportunity is of interest, please apply now for further details.
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