Application Guide
How to Apply for Principal Engineer - ERCOT Interconnection
at Electric Power Engineers
🏢 About Electric Power Engineers
Electric Power Engineers (EPE) is a specialized power systems consulting firm that helps utilities, developers, and asset owners navigate complex grid interconnection and reliability challenges. With a mission focused on enhancing grid reliability and resiliency for a sustainable energy future, EPE offers employees the chance to work on cutting-edge renewable integration projects across multiple ISOs, including ERCOT. The company's remote-first culture and emphasis on technical excellence make it an attractive destination for power system engineers who want to shape the grid of tomorrow.
About This Role
As a Principal Engineer - ERCOT Interconnection, you will lead the delivery of generation and merchant transmission interconnection services specifically within the ERCOT market. You will manage complex technical studies, oversee interconnection processes, and guide a team of power system engineers, all while operating with minimal supervision. This role is central to shaping interconnection strategy for renewable and conventional projects, ensuring high-quality technical analyses, and supporting the growth of EPE's power systems practice.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve leading a team meeting to review progress on multiple interconnection studies, performing dynamic modeling in PSS/E for a large solar project, and interfacing with a client to discuss study results and next steps. You might also mentor junior engineers on model validation techniques and stay updated on ERCOT's latest market changes to inform strategy.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Electric Power Engineers Is Looking For
- 10+ years of experience in power system engineering with a deep focus on generation interconnection, particularly in ERCOT; prior experience with ERCOT interconnection procedures and modeling requirements is essential.
- Expert-level proficiency in PSS/E, PSCAD, and TSAT for dynamic and EMT studies, including model benchmarking and validation for Solar PV, BESS, Wind, and conventional plants.
- Proven ability to lead and mentor engineering teams, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and interface directly with clients to provide strategic interconnection guidance.
- Strong understanding of IEEE, ISO, and utility guidelines for model development and study practices, with experience in large-load modeling and dynamic impact assessments.
📝 Tips for Applying to Electric Power Engineers
Highlight specific ERCOT interconnection projects you've led, including the types of generation (solar, wind, BESS) and the complexities involved (e.g., reactive power compensation, fault ride-through).
Quantify your experience with PSS/E, PSCAD, and TSAT—mention the number of models you've developed or validated and any custom scripting or automation you've implemented.
Emphasize any experience with merchant transmission interconnection, as this is a key differentiator for the role.
Demonstrate your ability to work remotely and independently by citing past projects where you managed deliverables without direct supervision.
Include examples of client-facing communication, such as leading technical discussions with utilities or presenting study results to stakeholders.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your deep expertise in ERCOT interconnection procedures and your track record of successfully navigating the ERCOT queue process.', 'Specific examples of leading complex technical studies (EMT, dynamic impact) and developing/validating models for inverter-based resources.', 'Your experience mentoring and leading teams of engineers, particularly in a remote or distributed environment.', "Your passion for contributing to a sustainable energy future and how your skills align with EPE's mission to enhance grid reliability."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review EPE's recent projects and case studies, especially those in ERCOT, to understand their technical approach and client base.
- → Familiarize yourself with ERCOT's latest interconnection process updates, including the new standard generation interconnection agreement (SGIA) and changes to the planning guide.
- → Research EPE's company culture and values through their website, LinkedIn, and employee reviews to tailor your application to their emphasis on innovation and sustainability.
- → Understand the competitive landscape of power system consulting in ERCOT, including key players like GE, Siemens, and other specialized firms.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid generic cover letters that don't mention ERCOT or specific tools like PSS/E, PSCAD, and TSAT—this role requires niche expertise.
- Don't underestimate the importance of client-facing skills; this is not a purely back-office modeling role, so failing to highlight communication experience is a mistake.
- Avoid focusing solely on technical skills without demonstrating leadership and mentorship abilities, as the role involves guiding a team.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Electric Power Engineers!