Application Guide

How to Apply for Principal Power Systems Engineer

at Electric Power Engineers

🏢 About Electric Power Engineers

Electric Power Engineers is a specialized consulting firm focused on enhancing grid reliability and resiliency for a sustainable energy future. Unlike larger conglomerates, they offer deep expertise in power systems engineering and a collaborative environment where engineers directly impact the transition to renewable energy. Their remote-first culture provides flexibility while working on cutting-edge grid challenges.

About This Role

This Principal Power Systems Engineer role involves leading high-level bulk power system studies using advanced software like PSS/E and PSCAD. You'll manage a team of engineers, drive process improvements, and support business development through RFP responses. Your work directly contributes to a more reliable and resilient grid, making a tangible impact on the energy transition.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a team stand-up to review ongoing studies, then diving into a transient stability analysis using PSS/E while mentoring a junior engineer. After lunch, you could join a client call to discuss study results and then work on an RFP response for a new project, ensuring scope and timelines are clear.

🎯 Who Electric Power Engineers Is Looking For

  • Experienced power systems engineer with 5+ years in the electric energy industry, preferably with a focus on bulk power system studies.
  • Proficient in multiple power system software tools (PSS/E, PSLF, PowerWorld, TARA, CAPE, Aspen, and/or PSCAD) and comfortable learning new ones.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills, with experience directing and mentoring a team of engineers on complex studies.
  • Familiar with leveraging AI and automation tools responsibly to improve study efficiency and accuracy.

📝 Tips for Applying to Electric Power Engineers

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific power system studies you've led (e.g., steady state, transient stability, short circuit, EMT) and the software used.

2

In your cover letter, mention your experience with RFP responses and scope of work development, as business development is a key part of the role.

3

Showcase any experience with AI or automation tools in power systems, even if limited, as the company values responsible innovation.

4

Include examples of process improvements you've implemented that increased efficiency or accuracy in power system studies.

5

Since the role is remote, emphasize your ability to work independently and communicate effectively across distributed teams.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your depth of experience in bulk power system studies and proficiency with multiple software tools (name specific ones).', 'Leadership experience managing engineers and driving process improvements.', 'Enthusiasm for contributing to grid reliability and the sustainable energy future.', 'Willingness to engage in business development activities, including RFP responses.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review Electric Power Engineers' website and recent projects to understand their focus areas (e.g., renewables integration, grid modernization).
  • Look up any recent publications or white papers from the company on power system studies or grid reliability.
  • Check their LinkedIn page for employee testimonials or recent hires to gauge company culture and growth areas.
  • Familiarize yourself with the latest trends in bulk power system studies, such as EMT studies for inverter-based resources.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you led a complex power system study from start to finish. What software did you use and what challenges did you face?
2 How do you stay current with evolving grid technologies and tools, especially AI and automation?
3 Can you walk us through your approach to managing a team of engineers on multiple concurrent studies?
4 How would you handle a disagreement with a client or team member regarding study assumptions or results?
5 What process improvements have you implemented in previous roles, and what was the impact?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing too much on distribution-level experience when the role is clearly about bulk power systems.
  • Not demonstrating proficiency in at least one of the preferred software tools (PSS/E, PSLF, etc.).
  • Overlooking the business development aspect; avoid sounding like you only want to do technical work without client interaction.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Electric Power Engineers!