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Principal Project Manager Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Principal Substation Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$147K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

GFT is seeking experienced Principal Substation Engineers (Electrical Engineers) to join our ... May act in th capacity of project manager, client manager or capture/proposal manager. * Build ...

Principal Substation Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$147K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

GFT is seeking experienced Principal Substation Engineers (Electrical Engineers) to join our ... May act in th capacity of project manager, client manager or capture/proposal manager. * Build ...

Project Coordinator - Plumbing

De Forest, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Principal Accountabilities: * Assists in all aspects of project management including the preparation of project estimates, procuring materials, creating product shop drawings, issuing subcontracts ...

Project Coordinator - Plumbing

De Forest, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Principal Accountabilities: * Assists in all aspects of project management including the preparation of project estimates, procuring materials, creating product shop drawings, issuing subcontracts ...

The Principal Automation Engineer leads projects from early design review through implementation ... In alignment with direct Manager, develop Automation strategies for the Company. * Lead execution ...

The Principal Automation Engineer leads projects from early design review through implementation ... In alignment with direct Manager, develop Automation strategies for the Company. * Lead execution ...

Showing results 41-60

Principal Project Manager information

See Madison, WI salary details

$45.4K

$105.9K

$170.9K

How much do principal project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal project manager in Madison, WI is $105,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,700.00 and $129,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Project Manager vs Senior Project Manager?

AspectPrincipal Project ManagerSenior Project Manager
CredentialsPMI PMP, PgMP, or equivalent; extensive experiencePMP or similar; significant project management experience
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, cross-departmental projectsManaging complex projects, team oversight
Employer & Industry UsageLarge corporations, consulting firms, tech companiesVaried industries, mid to large organizations

The Principal Project Manager typically holds higher-level certifications and leads strategic initiatives across departments, whereas the Senior Project Manager focuses on managing complex projects and teams within specific domains. Both roles require extensive project management experience, but the Principal often has broader responsibilities and influence.

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

To thrive as a Principal Project Manager, you need advanced project management expertise, strategic planning abilities, and a track record of leading large, complex projects, often backed by a bachelor's or master's degree and PMP or similar certification. Familiarity with project management tools like Microsoft Project, Jira, or Primavera, as well as experience with budget and resource management systems, is essential. Outstanding leadership, stakeholder communication, and problem-solving skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure effective project delivery, risk mitigation, and alignment with organizational goals on high-stakes initiatives.

Is a principal project manager a high position?

A principal project manager is a senior-level role responsible for overseeing large or complex projects, often involving strategic planning and leadership. It is considered a high position within project management, typically requiring extensive experience, certifications like PMP, and strong leadership skills.

What is a principal project manager?

Principal Project Managers are senior professionals responsible for overseeing large, complex projects or multiple project teams within an organization. They provide strategic direction, manage key stakeholders, and ensure successful project delivery within scope, time, and budget constraints. In addition to managing projects, they mentor junior project managers, establish best practices, and contribute to organizational goals through leadership and expertise.

How does a principal project manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project success?

A Principal Project Manager works closely with diverse teams—such as engineering, finance, marketing, and operations—to align project objectives and timelines. They facilitate regular meetings, establish clear communication channels, and proactively resolve conflicts or bottlenecks. By leveraging their leadership and organizational skills, they ensure that all stakeholders are informed, engaged, and contributing toward common goals. This collaborative approach is essential for navigating complex projects and delivering successful outcomes.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Project Manager jobs in Madison, WI?

For Principal Project Manager jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Project Manager jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Project Manager jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Principal Project Manager jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Principal Project Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Principal Project Manager job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,902 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Principal Substation Engineer

GFT.

Madison, WI • On-site

$147K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 hours ago


Job description

GFT is seeking experienced Principal Substation Engineers (Electrical Engineers) to join our expanding Power Group. As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients. If you are in Chicago, IL, Phoenix, AZ, Charlotte, NC, St. Louis, MO, Marlton, NJ, Roanoke, VA, or Monroeville, PA this position would be Hybrid. However for the right candidate, this would be a remote position.

Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today's diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here. 

What you'll be challenged to do:

As a Principal Substation Engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients.

You will have need to have experience supporting or leading various substation projects from 34.5kV up through 500kV.  In addition, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to build effective relationships with clients and key stakeholders in the Power & Utility industry.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • Develop substation layout drawings including, plan and elevations, yard layouts, grounding, grounding details, raceway, raceway details, control building layouts, cable lists, and material lists on new and existing substations.
  • Develop substation one lines, three lines, Aux AC Power Systems, DC Power Systems, DC Schematics, SCADA and Communications Systems, Relay Panel Layouts, Equipment Wiring, and Cable Schedules for new and existing substations.
  • Prepare calculations and reports presenting the calculations to clients.
  • Prepare equipment specifications, for substation equipment, components, and construction.
  • Responsible for managing the technical, financial, and scheduling aspects of substation projects.
  • May act in th capacity of project manager, client manager or capture/proposal manager.
  • Build, maintain, and manage the necessary skills, resources, and expertise to develop and deliver strategic services, partnerships, programs, and projects.
  • Collaborate internally to pursue power substation projects regionally and nationally with the objective of increasing GFT presence in the power delivery business.
  • Provides QA/QC reviews.
  • Mentor or lead a staff of engineers and other technical specialistDevelop and nurture client relationships and work across multiple disciplines in other offices.
  • Assume an active role in the preparation of proposals bids, reports and presentations

What you will bring to our firm: 

  • Minimum Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • Professional Engineer License 
  • 15 +years progressive experience in design, engineering and project management within power and utility industry.
  • Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering profession.
  • Demonstrated ability with project management software and tools (Microsoft Project or similar) for scope, schedule, and budget management.
  • Design experience in high voltage substation, and distribution projects.
  • Experience in the creation of quality technical solutions and the design delivery of major power delivery projects.
  • Commitment to driving strong business performance, continuous improvement, and best practices.

What we prefer you bring: 

  • Advanced Degree strongly preferred.
  • Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation or Inventor   

Compensation:

The salary range for this role is $147,000-$175,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Featured Benefits: 

  • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
  • Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
  • Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
  • Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
  • Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
  • Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives 

GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law. 

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Location: Remote

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time 

#LI-NA1

#LI-REMOTE

"California Applicants"

Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.

Gannett Fleming does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.

Application deadline 9/20/2026

Employment Type: FULL_TIME