Principal Electrical Engineer – Power Generation (Combined Cycle)

Zachry’s Charlotte, North Carolina office is seeking an experienced Principal Electrical Engineer to support large-scale combined cycle power generation projects across the region. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-visibility energy infrastructure projects for leading utility and power generation clients.

Our Charlotte-based Power Generation team supports a strong and growing portfolio of combined cycle facilities, providing engineers with both long-term project stability and exposure to technically challenging work. The environment is collaborative and fast-paced, with opportunities to lead engineering decisions, mentor teams, and directly influence project outcomes.

If you are a senior electrical engineer looking to apply your expertise on critical power projects while continuing to grow your technical and leadership impact, Zachry offers a rewarding and stable career path.

Zachry Engineer Corporation (ZEC) is an engineering-driven organization known for delivering high-quality EPC solutions across the Power, Industrial, and Infrastructure markets.

Key Responsibilities

Lead electrical engineering efforts for combined cycle power generation projects from conceptual design through commissioning and startup
Establish and manage electrical design criteria, standards, and philosophies for power plant facilities
Oversee and review electrical system designs, including:
Generator and auxiliary systems
Medium- and high-voltage power distribution
Protection and control systems
Grounding, lighting, and raceway systems
Interfaces with instrumentation and control (I&C) and plant control systems
Provide technical direction and oversight to electrical engineers and designers assigned to projects
Review and approve calculations, drawings, specifications, and technical deliverables for quality and compliance
Coordinate electrical engineering activities with mechanical, civil, structural, I&C, construction, and commissioning teams
Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards, including NEC, IEEE, ANSI, NEMA, and utility or owner requirements
Develop and support engineering cost estimates, material quantities, and execution plans
Lead technical aspects of major electrical equipment procurement, including vendor evaluations and technical reviews
Participate in constructability reviews, hazard analyses, and formal design reviews
Provide technical support during construction, commissioning, and startup, including site visits as needed
Interface directly with clients, project management, and internal leadership on technical scope, risks, and progress
Mentor and support the development of junior and mid-level engineers

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field from an accredited institution
12–15 years of electrical engineering experience in power generation, with significant experience on combined cycle power plants
Experience serving in a senior or principal engineering role on EPC or utility-scale power projects
Strong knowledge of electrical power systems and applicable codes and standards, including NEC, IEEE, ANSI, and NEMA
Experience supporting projects through all phases, including design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and startup

Preferred Qualifications

Deep technical experience with combined cycle electrical systems, including generators, auxiliary power systems, medium- and high-voltage distribution, and protection and control
Prior experience leading or mentoring engineering teams on complex projects
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with clients, project managers, vendors, and multidisciplinary teams
Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred

Why Zachry?

Stable backlog of long-term power generation projects
Exposure to complex, high-profile combined cycle facilities
Collaborative engineering-focused culture
Opportunities for technical leadership and career growth

Pay: $150,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Relocation assistance

Work Location: In person

Zachry Group

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