Description

The principal electrical engineer is responsible for overseeing electrically-related design or construction projects within their company and supervises an engineering team of junior engineers involved on their design and implementation. The chief electrical engineer works as a project manager constantly examining and evaluating the work that is being completed and noting any necessary corrections or changes. For a lot of design and construction companies, the chief engineer is also responsible for estimates, cost projections, and estimates. These are vital for clients to get accurate estimates of the costs. The next step is for the chief electrical engineer to make sure that the project is completed at (or close to) the estimated cost.

The chief design engineer will also involved in making the hiring decisions for their team. They evaluate the needs of projects and design, and form teams to meet these needs in the most efficient way possible. They review their performance regularly and evaluate their teams on the basis of established quality assurance standards for the electrical design and engineering.

The principal electrical engineer typically is employed in an office or manufacturing setting during normal business hours, however, overtime might be necessary in accordance with the project's requirements.

In order to be an electrical engineer principal, one generally requires at minimum a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, though postgraduate studies may be required. In several states, engineers must have a license or certification, as well. Due to the managerial nature of the job the company is likely to seek out individuals who have at least five or seven years of experience with electrical design or electrical design.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Principal Electrical Engineer with 0-3 years of experience in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Designing and implementing electrical systems for various projects, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.Create electrical system designs and oversee their implementation, ensuring they meet safety and quality guidelines.
  • Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative solutions and address technical challenges.Work closely with cross-functional teams to develop creative solutions and overcome technical obstacles.
  • Conducting research and staying updated with industry advancements to enhance expertise.Engage in ongoing research and learning to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and advancements.
  • Assisting in the testing, troubleshooting, and optimization of electrical systems.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Principal Electrical Engineer job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Extensive technical expertise in electrical engineering principles, including power distribution, circuit design, control systems, and troubleshooting techniques.
  • Strong leadership abilities to oversee and guide a team of electrical engineers, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
  • Proficient in using industry-standard software and tools for electrical design and analysis, such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or PSpice.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and clients, effectively conveying complex technical concepts and requirements.

Essential Skills For Principal Electrical Engineer

1

Electrical Schematics

2

Project Management

3

Electrical Equipment

Career Prospects

The role of a Principal Electrical Engineer is crucial in the United States, especially for professionals with 0-3 years of experience. However, there are alternative roles that individuals in this field can consider. Here are following options to explore:

  • Electrical Design Engineer: An opportunity to focus on creating electrical design solutions and developing detailed technical specifications for various projects.
  • Test Engineer: A role that involves designing and executing tests to ensure the functionality and reliability of electrical systems and components.
  • Power Systems Engineer: A position focused on the analysis, design, and implementation of electrical power systems, including generation, transmission, and distribution.
  • Project Coordinator: An opportunity to be involved in managing electrical engineering projects, facilitating communication between team members, and ensuring project milestones are met.

How to Learn

According to the latest data from various sources, the role of Principal Electrical Engineer in the United States is projected to experience steady growth in the market. Over the next 10 years, the job role is expected to witness a significant increase in demand, driven by advancements in technology and infrastructure projects. This growth is expected to create a substantial number of employment opportunities for qualified professionals in the electrical engineering field. This positive trend signifies a promising outlook for individuals pursuing a career as a Principal Electrical Engineer in the United States.