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Principal Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

PowerSecure

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site +1

The Principal Mechanical Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for mechanical systems across PowerSecure. This position provides advanced engineering leadership, mentorship, and oversight ...

PowerSecure, Inc.

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

The Principal Mechanical Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for mechanical systems across PowerSecure. This position provides advanced engineering leadership, mentorship, and oversight ...

PowerSecure

Principal Engineer

NC · On-site

The Principal Mechanical Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for mechanical systems across PowerSecure. This position provides advanced engineering leadership, mentorship, and oversight ...

City of Durham, NC

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site +1

$85K - $132K/yr

You must apply for both positions to be considered for either the Principal Engineer or the Senior Engineer position. A flexible work environment, top-notch management, highly qualified, competent ...

City of Durham

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$85K - $132K/yr

You must apply for both positions to be considered for either the Principal Engineer or the Senior Engineer position. A flexible work environment, top-notch management, highly qualified, competent ...

City of Durham

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$85K - $132K/yr

This position will work in the Development Infrastructure Division of the Planning and Development Department and will serve as a Principal Engineer in the Stormwater Review Group. The primary ...

City of Durham, NC

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site +1

$85K - $132K/yr

This position will work in the Development Infrastructure Division of the Planning and Development Department and will serve as a Principal Engineer in the Stormwater Review Group. The primary ...

Bertelsmann

Principal Software Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$126K - $169K/yr

Are you looking for a high energy, strategic, and fast-paced position as a Principal Software Engineer? Join Relias, the company changing lives throughout the world by helping healthcare ...

Hazen and Sawyer

Principal Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Hazen and Sawyer is seeking a Water/Wastewater Project Engineer for our Raleigh office office. As part of our design and process teams, you will work on water and wastewater projects, including ...

City of Durham

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$85K - $132K/yr

Devoted to providing engineering support, inspection, and professional civil engineering for a variety of public works, utilities, storm water, and transportation facilities/projects as well as ...

City of Durham, NC

Principal Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site +1

$85K - $132K/yr

Devoted to providing engineering support, inspection, and professional civil engineering for a variety of public works, utilities, storm water, and transportation facilities/projects as well as ...

Eaton

Power System Modeling Principal Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$154K - $225K/yr

Eaton's ES AMER HQ division is currently seeking a Power System Modeling Principal Engineer. This position will be based in Raleigh, NC. We are offering relocation assistance and sponsorship support ...

Baxter

Principal Engineer, Embedded Systems

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

As a Principal Engineer, Embedded Systems, you will play a pivotal role in supporting embedded software development activities within our research and development team. Your primary focus will be on ...

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All JobsPrincipal Engineer JobsPrincipal Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Principal Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$71.9K

$143.1K

$206.6K

How much do principal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineer in Raleigh, NC is $143,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,200.00 and $168,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Principal Engineer?

A principal engineer oversees the research, development, and design of engineering projects for a company or organization. These engineering experts are leaders in their industries and need an advanced understanding of their discipline to manage projects and guide team members. As a principal engineer, your job duties include creating budgets, negotiating with vendors, and delegating work. You may also train staff members, set project deadlines, and work to improve engineering application processes.

What is the difference between Principal Engineer vs Senior Engineer?

AspectPrincipal EngineerSenior Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires 8+ years of experience, advanced technical skills, and often leadership or mentorship experienceUsually requires 3-7 years of experience with strong technical skills
Work EnvironmentLeads complex projects, influences technical strategy, collaborates across teamsFocuses on executing technical tasks, supporting project development, and mentoring junior staff
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large tech companies, engineering firms, and organizations with advanced technical hierarchiesWidely used across industries for experienced technical contributors

The main difference between a Principal Engineer and a Senior Engineer lies in their level of responsibility, experience, and influence. Principal Engineers typically lead complex projects and shape technical strategies, while Senior Engineers focus on executing technical tasks and supporting team efforts. Both roles require strong technical skills, but Principal Engineers often have more leadership and strategic responsibilities.

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

Principal engineers in electrical engineering can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles in high-paying industries like aerospace, defense, or energy. Such salaries often include bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, but are typically reserved for senior-level positions in large organizations or specialized fields.

What engineers make $500,000?

Principal engineers, especially in high-demand industries like technology, aerospace, and finance, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities in complex projects or organizations.

What are Principal Engineers?

Principal Engineers are highly experienced technical experts who lead engineering teams, provide strategic technical direction, and help solve complex engineering challenges within an organization. They often act as mentors, set technical standards, and collaborate with stakeholders across departments to drive innovation and ensure the success of engineering projects. Principal Engineers typically have many years of industry experience and are recognized for their deep technical knowledge and leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Engineer, you need deep technical expertise in your engineering discipline, strong problem-solving abilities, and typically an advanced degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with complex software development tools, architectural frameworks, and industry certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or relevant PE licenses is common. Exceptional leadership, communication, and mentorship skills help Principal Engineers guide teams and influence project direction. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring technical excellence, and delivering large-scale, high-impact solutions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal engineers, especially in high-demand industries like technology, aerospace, and finance, can earn $300,000 or more annually with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in senior or leadership roles. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in large companies or startups with significant growth potential.

How does a Principal Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

Principal Engineers play a key role in collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as product management, design, and operations, to ensure technical solutions align with business objectives. They often lead architectural discussions, mentor team members, and facilitate communication between engineering and non-engineering stakeholders. This collaboration helps identify potential challenges early, streamline development processes, and deliver high-quality products. Additionally, Principal Engineers are often involved in setting technical standards and guiding teams through complex problem-solving.

How much is a principal engineer paid?

A principal engineer's salary typically ranges from $120,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often have advanced technical skills, leadership responsibilities, and may receive bonuses or stock options as part of compensation.
More about Principal Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Principal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Principal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Principal Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Principal Engineer job openings:
Principal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,102 per year, or $68.8 per hour.
Principal Engineer

Principal Engineer

PowerSecure

Durham, NC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
The Principal Mechanical Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for mechanical systems across PowerSecure. This position provides advanced engineering leadership, mentorship, and oversight on complex mechanical system designs,
including chilled water plants, hydronic systems, HVAC distribution, thermal energy systems, including both integration with distributed energy resources as well as balance of plant systems design. The Principal Engineer leads engineering work to develop and implement energy efficiency and energy production projects for customer facilities. Projects include energy efficiency upgrades, renewable energy systems, and distributed energy installations. The Principal Engineer is responsible for managing and conducting engineering studies, analyses, and project development. The Principal Engineer manages mechanical and electrical construction projects from pre-contract through final implementation and customer turnover.
Minimum Qualifications: (Education, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills):
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or another qualified technical field.
  • 15+ years of experience with similar project work.
  • Advanced proficiency in mechanical system modeling, optimization, and performance analysis for complex building and industrial systems.
  • Experience developing engineering standards, best practices, and technical procedures for organizational adoption.
  • Experience with energy engineering, including conducting engineering studies, analyzing energy consuming systems, and writing technical reports.
  • Experience with development and implementation of facility infrastructure projects.
  • Strong capability to mentor, coach, and technically develop junior and mid-level engineers.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred (or ability to obtain), reflecting advanced technical competence and professionalism.
  • Expert-level knowledge of advanced mechanical system design including chilled water plants, hydronic systems, complex HVAC architectures, and thermal energy systems.
  • Extensive knowledge of utility billing for electric, natural gas, water, and other infrastructure systems.
  • Extensive knowledge of facility electrical systems and equipment.
  • Extensive knowledge of engineering analysis methods for analyzing energy consumption of mechanical and electrical systems in buildings.
  • Extensive knowledge of regulatory requirements, industry codes, and standards (ASHRAE, NFPA, building codes) relevant to mechanical system design and construction.
  • Ability to develop, implement, and refine engineering standards, specifications, and best-practice guidelines for organizational use.
  • Knowledge of methods for measurement and verification (M&V) for energy efficiency projects.
  • Proficient in the Microsoft 365 suite-including Word, Excel, Project, PowerPoint, and Teams-with additional capability to effectively use business software tools such as AutoCAD, SharePoint, Power BI, and Bluebeam Revu.
  • Excellent organizational skills and experience with managing and coordinating projects.
  • High-level ability to engage with executives, customers, and stakeholders, conveying complex technical concepts clearly and persuasively.
  • Able to travel to customer facilities to conduct building surveys.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Candidate shall have extensive experience with development and implementation of mechanical and electrical system projects in customer facilities. Responsibilities include site investigations, analyzing energy use, finalizing savings calculations, finalizing cost estimates and written reports. In addition, the engineer manages engineering and design for implementation of design-build projects. Candidate has extensive familiarity with facility systems including chilled and hot water systems, air handling systems, building controls, and electrical distribution systems. The engineer works with other team members, and interfaces with customers, subconsultants, product vendors, subcontractors, and others to lead projects through development. Candidate
    must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, analytical skills, and experience with building mechanical and electrical systems.
  • In addition to the above, the Principal Mechanical Engineer is expected to provide senior-level technical leadership and oversight, acting as a subject matter expert in mechanical system design, optimization, and integration. Candidate must demonstrate deep expertise in advanced mechanical engineering principles, complex system modeling, and cross-disciplinary
    engineering coordination. Experience leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams, conducting high-level technical reviews, establishing engineering standards, and mentoring junior staff is essential. Candidate must have a proven track record of guiding largescale or technically complex projects, advising stakeholders at all levels, and ensuring engineering excellence throughout project lifecycles. Strong strategic thinking abilities and the capacity to influence technical direction across programs and initiatives are required. Provide senior level technical oversight, review, and approval of mechanical engineering deliverables across multiple projects.
  • Represent engineering leadership in customer meetings, cross functional coordination sessions, and executive level discussions.
  • Coordinate mechanical engineering integration with electrical, controls, and construction teams to ensure cohesive system designs.
  • Serve as the senior technical point of contact for high priority or complex customer engagements.
  • Provide oversight and direction during project scoping, feasibility assessments, and early stage conceptual engineering.
  • Support quality assurance processes, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and technical excellence in all mechanical engineering output.
  • Support sales team as required with customer interactions.
  • Lead and oversee the design engineering process for both new project development initiatives and projects progressing through full design and construction.
  • Prepare and finalize reports and other documentation required for project work.
  • Comply with safety requirements in the workplace and at customer sites.

Working Conditions:
  • This position is remote.
  • Travel required to customer facilities to conduct field surveys as needed.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours to accommodate different time zones (Central/Eastern/Mountain/Pacific), if necessary.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management reserves the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time, based on business needs.
PowerSecure is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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