Principal Electrical Engineer - Substation

Location: [Athens, TX / Houston, TX / Remote / Hybrid] Department: Transmission & Substation Engineering Reports To: Principal Engineer FLSA Status: Exempt Position Summary The Principal Electrical Engineer – Transmission & Substation is a senior technical leader responsible for the design, oversight, and execution of high-voltage infrastructure projects. This role serves as the subject matter expert across transmission and substation engineering, supporting projects from concept through commissioning. You will lead complex technical efforts, guide engineering teams, and partner closely with field and commissioning teams to ensure safe, high-quality, and constructible solutions. Key Responsibilities Technical Leadership Lead the engineering design of high-voltage transmission and substation systems (typically 69kV–500kV) Serve as the technical authority for substation physical design, protection & controls, and transmission line integration Review and approve engineering packages including: One-lines, three-lines, and schematics Relay protection philosophies and settings coordination Grounding, lightning protection, and insulation coordination studies Ensure compliance with industry standards (IEEE, NESC, NEC, OSHA) and utility-specific requirements Project Execution Support projects from conceptual design through detailed engineering, construction, and commissioning Collaborate with field technicians and commissioning teams to ensure constructability and operational readiness Identify technical risks early and drive resolution to maintain schedule and quality Act as the primary technical interface with clients, utilities, and EPC partners Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Associate, Mid-Level, and Senior Engineers Review work products and ensure consistency across engineering deliverables Support hiring, onboarding, and development of engineering talent Elevate team capability through knowledge sharing and technical training Engineering Excellence & Continuous Improvement Drive standardization of engineering practices, tools, and design approaches Support development of internal standards for transmission and substation design Identify opportunities for innovation and improved efficiency across projects Contribute to strategic initiatives that support company growth and technical excellence Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering Professional Engineer (PE) license required 10–15+ years of experience in transmission and/or substation engineering Deep experience with high-voltage systems (69kV–500kV or higher) Strong background in: Protection & control systems Relay coordination and fault analysis Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and guide engineering teams NERC compliance SEL relay systems Preferred Experience supporting construction and field commissioning activities Familiarity with SCADA, EMS, and grid modernization technologies Experience working with utility clients or EPC firms Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering (preferred) Strong ownership mindset with accountability for technical outcomes Advanced problem-solving and decision-making capabilities Ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable direction Collaborative leadership style with a focus on team success Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement Work Environment & Expectations Hybrid or remote with travel to substations and project sites as needed Ability to support field environments, including commissioning activities Why Join Us Lead critical infrastructure projects that directly impact grid reliability Work in a collaborative, field-connected engineering environment Opportunity to shape engineering standards and mentor future talent Be part of a company focused on growth, innovation, and execution Compensation Benefits Include $178 per diem for nights spent away from the Athens/Home Area on approved field assignments Two (2) weeks of paid vacation upon hire Company-paid holidays Eligibility for 100% employer-paid health insurance on the first day of the month following successful completion of a 90-day introductory period Simple IRA Retirement Plan with 3% company match (after one year of employment) Pre-Employment Requirements Satisfactory driving and background check Passing drug and alcohol test EEO Statement REI Utility Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. This is a full-time, hourly position with pay commensurate with experience and qualifications. Compensation includes per diem for approved travel and eligibility for REI’s comprehensive benefits package. #J-18808-Ljbffr