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Principal Electrical Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Stryker

Senior Principal Electrical Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$135K - $225K/yr

As a Senior Principal Electrical Engineer at Stryker, you will serve as a highly influential technical leader responsible for shaping system-level architecture and driving innovation across complex ...

Stryker

Senior Principal Electrical Engineer

Portage, MI · On-site

$135K - $225K/yr

As a Senior Principal Electrical Engineer at Stryker, you will serve as a highly influential technical leader responsible for shaping system-level architecture and driving innovation across complex ...

Stryker

Senior Principal Electrical Engineer

Portage, MI · On-site

$135K - $225K/yr

As a Senior Principal Electrical Engineer at Stryker, you will serve as a highly influential technical leader responsible for shaping system-level architecture and driving innovation across complex ...

DTE Energy

Principal Electrical Engineer

Detroit, MI

$137K - $168K/yr

Detroit, MI The Electrical Engineer III is responsible for the overall design, and technical oversight of new development projects, specifically in regard to electrical infrastructure, including low ...

DTE Energy

Principal Electrical Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$127K - $155K/yr

Detroit, MI The Electrical Engineer III is responsible for the overall design, and technical oversight of new development projects, specifically in regard to electrical infrastructure, including low ...

DTE Energy

Principal Electrical Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$137K - $168K/yr

Detroit, MI The Electrical Engineer III is responsible for the overall design, and technical oversight of new development projects, specifically in regard to electrical infrastructure, including low ...

Orb Aerospace

Principal Electrical Engineer

Lowell, MI · On-site

$90K - $145K/yr

This position will lay out the electrical engineering architecture with considerations for mechanical, aero, and software engineering requirements. One Sentence Architect, build, and test optimized ...

Orb Aerospace

Principal Electrical Engineer

Lowell, MI

$90K - $145K/yr

This position will lay out the electrical engineering architecture with considerations for mechanical, aero, and software engineering requirements. One Sentence Architect, build, and test optimized ...

Orb Aerospace

Principal Electrical Engineer

Lowell, MI · On-site

$90K - $145K/yr

This position will lay out the electrical engineering architecture with considerations for mechanical, aero, and software engineering requirements. One Sentence Architect, build, and test optimized ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Electrical Engineer JobsPrincipal Electrical Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Principal Electrical Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$85.9K

$134.9K

$178.7K

How much do principal electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal electrical engineer in Michigan is $134,943.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,200.00 and $148,200.00 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.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Principal Electrical Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives for senior-level positions.

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 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 reflects expertise, management duties, and working in high-demand industries or companies.

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

Principal electrical engineers in high-level roles, especially in industries like aerospace, energy, or technology, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 with bonuses and stock options. However, such compensation is typically reserved for senior positions with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in leadership or specialized technical roles. Most electrical engineers earn lower base salaries, with higher earnings possible through career advancement and additional compensation packages.

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.

More about Principal Electrical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Principal Electrical Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Principal Electrical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in MI? For Principal Electrical Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal Electrical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Electrical Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,943 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Principal Electrical Engineer

Brooks Utility Products

Novi, MI • On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description


Principal Electrical Engineer / Senior Staff Electrical Engineer

Job Type: Full Time (Exempt)

Location: Novi, MI (Metro Detroit)

Reports To: Vice President, Product & Commercial Operations

Work Environment: Fully air-conditioned, climate-controlled production facility

­­­­­­­­­­­­

Overview: America's energy grid is undergoing its most significant transformation in a century — and Brooks Utility Products has been at the center of utility infrastructure for over 150 years. As the country's oldest electric utility manufacturer and the leading manufacturer of transformer-rated meter sockets, test switches, metering enclosures, and utility security equipment, we sit exactly where grid modernization, advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) deployment, and infrastructure investment are driving durable, long-cycle demand. We are known for our commitment to safety, security, and reliability, and helping utilities address the challenges of the modern power grid.


Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced Principal Engineer / Senior Staff Electrical Engineer to contribute to the design, development, and technical support of our medium-voltage (MV) utility applications. The ideal candidate brings deep power systems expertise and a passion for medium-voltage applications. You will work closely with utility customers to customize solutions that meet utility standards and identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation. This role bridges the gap between electrical design, mechanical packaging, and practical utility application. Candidates who bring strong MV power systems fundamentals—even if not previously specialized in pad-mount product design—are encouraged to apply. We will invest in developing the right engineer for this SME role.


âš‘ Work model note: This is a full-time, on-site position at our Novi, MI facility.

Our team does its best work together — in the lab, on the shop floor, and around the whiteboard. We are looking for someone who is energized by a collaborative, in-person environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Product Design & Engineering: Independently lead the electrical design and component selection for medium-voltage products (5kV – 35kV), including primary metering cabinets and primary metering switchgear. Lead design and development from concept through commercialization with effective collaboration with marketing, supply chain, sales, and customer channels.
  • Custom Utility Solutions: Review customer specifications and utility standards to generate custom engineering packages, including Bill of Materials (BOM), three-line diagrams, and control schematics.
  • Standards Compliance: Ensure all designs comply with applicable industry standards (e.g., IEEE, ANSI, UL).
  • Protection & Control: Design and specify protection schemes involving relays, CTs/PTs (instrument transformers), and sensing devices.
  • Mechanical Design: Collaborate with mechanical engineers to ensure electrical clearances, thermal management, and safety aspects are maintained within compact pad-mount enclosures.
  • Testing & Validation: Oversee prototype builds and define test procedures at both the component level (instrument transformers, fuses, relays, load-break switches) and system-level products, including dielectric testing, and partial discharge analysis.
  • Technical Support: Serve as a high-level technical resource for the sales team and customers, assisting with complex troubleshooting, installation inquiries, and field commissioning support.
  • Voice Of Customer (VOC): Join VOC calls and field visits with customers to understand product use-cases, customer pain points, and opportunities for product innovation.


Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from an ABET-accredited program.
  • Experience: 5+ years of engineering experience in power systems, with demonstrated exposure to medium-voltage equipment (5kV–35kV) in any of the following contexts: electric utility operations, switchgear or equipment manufacturing, power distribution, power generation, industrial or commercial power systems, or power systems consulting and engineering services.
  • Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of medium-voltage power distribution, arc interruption theories, and insulation coordination.
  • Equipment Expertise: Familiarity with medium-voltage power system components including instrument transformers (CTs/PTs), switching devices, and insulating/shielding systems. Experience may span design, specification, testing, commissioning, or maintenance contexts.
  • Software Proficiency: Ability to work within 2D/3D CAD environments and ERP systems for BOM management; specific platform experience (AutoCAD Electrical, Draftsight, SolidWorks, or similar) preferred but not required.


Preferred Skills

  • Experience with power system analysis software.
  • Experience with ANSYS Electrical is helpful.
  • Experience with PCB design and communication/control is a plus.
  • Familiarity with revenue metering requirements for electric utilities.


More About You:

  • You love engineering, design, and learning.
  • You enjoy working at a computer and handle hands-on tasks with ease.
  • You work well individually or in a team and communicate clearly by phone, email, and chat.
  • You enjoy chatting with customers to uncover pain points and translate them into innovative solutions.