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Principal Electrical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Electrical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$149K - $183K/yr

The Senior/Principal Electrical Engineers will also manage tasks and oversee the work of junior staff. The ideal candidates must be performance-driven, possess a strong educational background and ...

The Senior/Principal Electrical Engineers will also manage tasks and oversee the work of junior staff. The ideal candidates must be performance-driven, possess a strong educational background and ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Eden Prairie, MN · 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 ...

Principal Electrical Engineer-MN

Shoreview, MN · 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

Manchester, NH · 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

Shoreview, MN · 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

Manchester, NH · 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

Westerville, OH · On-site

$134K - $163K/yr

This Principal Electrical Engineer will work in a cross-functional development group; managing a variety of tasks and activities as required in this dynamic environment to solve complex problems ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Marion, IA · On-site

$138K - $169K/yr

PRINCIPAL ELECTRICAL ENGINEER Division: ESCO Power and Safety Solutions Location: Marion, Iowa Reports to: Electrical Design and Engineering Manager Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt Status: Full-Time ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Marion, IA · On-site

$138K - $169K/yr

PRINCIPAL ELECTRICAL ENGINEER Division: ESCO Power and Safety Solutions Location: Marion, Iowa Reports to: Electrical Design and Engineering Manager Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt Status: Full-Time ...

As a Principal Electrical Engineer , you will provide expert electrical engineering services to Client and its customers. In this role, you will lead technical efforts, oversee project execution, and ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Osseo, MN · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

As a Principal Electrical Engineer , you will play a critical role in the design, development, and testing of electrical and electronic systems for medical devices. You will work collaboratively ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Marion, IA · On-site

$138K - $169K/yr

PRINCIPAL ELECTRICAL ENGINEER Division: ESCO Power and Safety Solutions Location: Marion, Iowa Reports to: Electrical Design and Engineering Manager Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt Status: Full-Time ...

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Principal Electrical Engineer information

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$98.5K

$154.8K

$205K

How much do principal electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 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.

What are Principal Electrical Engineers?

Principal Electrical Engineers are senior-level professionals who lead the design, development, and implementation of electrical systems and projects. They are responsible for overseeing teams of engineers, ensuring technical excellence, and providing strategic direction on complex engineering tasks. Their work often includes managing project schedules, budgets, and client communications, as well as mentoring junior engineers and ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Principal Electrical Engineers in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or high-level consulting can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, reflecting the seniority and complexity of the role.

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 guiding engineering teams. They typically possess advanced technical expertise, use tools like CAD software, and may hold certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE). Their role involves ensuring electrical systems meet safety, quality, and performance standards in various industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Electrical Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as aerospace, software, or petroleum engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level positions.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Principal electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles in high-demand industries can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such compensation is typically associated with senior positions in large corporations, specialized fields like power systems or aerospace, or those with significant managerial responsibilities.

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:
Principal Electrical Engineer

Principal Electrical Engineer

Arcadis

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$149K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Arcadis rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets.
We are more than 36,000 people, in over 70 countries, dedicated to improving quality of life. Everyone has an important role to play. With the power of many curious minds, together we can solve the world's most complex challenges and deliver more impact together.
Role description:
Arcadis has an immediate need for two Senior/Principal Electrical Engineers with experience in designing electrical power systems to join our teams in both California and Arizona. Using technical capabilities and collaborating with our experienced team of professionals, these engineers will provide technical and design consulting services with a focus on electrical power distribution, motor controls, lighting, and grounding design to support projects for our Resilience Water Business Line. The Senior/Principal Electrical Engineers will also manage tasks and oversee the work of junior staff. The ideal candidates must be performance-driven, possess a strong educational background and must be able to work productively, both independently and as a contributing member of a collaborative team.
Role accountabilities:
The Senior/Principal Electrical Engineers will support water and wastewater projects through all phases of planning, design, and construction, collaborating closely with clients and project teams to deliver successful outcomes. Responsibilities include developing project and task scopes, schedules, and budgets, while progressively supporting and demonstrating strong project management capabilities to ensure assignments are delivered on time and within budget.
The position involves leading and coordinating electrical design across multiple projects, with a focus on medium- and low-voltage power distribution, motor controls, lighting, and grounding systems specific to water and wastewater facilities. The Senior/Principal Electrical Engineers establishes design criteria; performs engineering calculations; and develops one-line diagrams, control schematics, and construction plans and specifications. Close, highly interactive coordination with the Control Systems group is a key component of the role.
During construction, the Senior/Principal Electrical Engineers will provide engineering support by reviewing equipment submittals and shop drawings, responding to contractor RFIs, and conducting field inspections. This includes identifying deviations from design, performing QA/QC reviews of completed work, and monitoring safety compliance. The role also requires performing or overseeing power system analysis using ETAP, SKM Power Tools, or similar software, including responsibility for power studies and arc flash hazard analyses. Occasional travel (approximately 5-10%) is required to support project needs.
Key Attributes
Demonstrated experience with the municipal water and wastewater industry with a strong
understanding of client needs and the ability to build and maintain effective client relationships.
Solid working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and applicable NFPA codes, applied
consistently across complex engineering projects.
A collaborative professional with a clear desire to mentor and develop junior staff-level electrical
engineers and technicians. Possesses excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication
skills, enabling effective coordination with multidisciplinary teams to deliver projects on time and
within budget.
Highly organized and adaptable with the ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously
While maintaining quality, meeting deadlines, and supporting overall project objectives.
Qualifications & Experience:
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology, preferably with an emphasis on power.
  • 15 years minimum of relevant work experience
  • Registered Professional Electrical Engineer in California for California position.
  • Registered Professional Electrical Engineer in Arizona for Arizona position.
  • Solid working knowledge of the National Electrical Code.
  • Basic understanding of AutoCAD.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, MS Project and Outlook).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Solid working knowledge of Process and Instrumentation Diagrams, Field Instrumentation, and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) as they relate to electrical design.
  • Active participation in regional and/or national professional associations
  • Experience using ETAP, SKM Power Tools or other power systems analysis software.
  • Supervisory experience.

Why Arcadis?
We can only achieve our goals when everyone is empowered to be their best. We believe everyone's contribution matters. It's why we are pioneering a skills-based approach, where you can harness your unique experience and expertise to carve your career path and maximize the impact we can make together.
You'll do meaningful work, and no matter what role, you'll be helping to deliver sustainable solutions for a more prosperous planet. Make your mark, on your career, your colleagues, your clients, your life and the world around you.
Together, we can create a lasting legacy.
Join Arcadis. Create a Legacy.
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We want you to be able to bring your best self to work every day which is why we take equality and inclusion seriously and hold ourselves to account for our actions. Our ambition is to be an employer of choice and provide a great place to work for all our people. We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. We are dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Arcadis offers benefits for full time and part time positions. These benefits include medical, dental, and vision, EAP, 401K, STD, LTD, AD&D, life insurance, paid parental leave, reward & recognition program and optional benefits including wellbeing benefits, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement. We offer nine paid holidays and 20 days PTO that accrue per year. The salary range for this position is $160,000 - $220,968. Actual salaries will vary and are based on several factors, such as experience, education, budget, internal equity, project and location.
#Resilience-ANA
#Water-ANA
#LI-RC2

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About Arcadis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our work with clients has a direct impact on people's lives and on the planet. We make moving, living and belonging in cities safer, more resilient and more sustainable. By partnering with our clients as responsible custodians of our earth's resources, we can create a sustainable planet. We continue to think of new ways to make positive impacts and create better experiences for people; data driven and digital solutions have become part of the Arcadis DNA. Working together with clients and using techniques like design thinking, we can get to the heart of our clients' most pressing challenges and work together to solve them.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Highlands Ranch, CO, US