Principal Electrical Engineer

A leading industrial automation and electrical engineering organization is seeking an experienced Principal Electrical Engineer to provide technical leadership across complex engineering projects. This role is responsible for overseeing the design and development of electrical systems, ensuring compliance with applicable standards and regulations, mentoring engineering staff, and driving innovation throughout the product development lifecycle.

The successful candidate will work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality engineering solutions while supporting continuous improvement initiatives and maintaining technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership

• Lead and manage complex electrical engineering projects from concept through completion.


• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with technical specifications.


• Coordinate project activities while providing technical direction and leadership.

Design & Development

• Design and develop electrical systems, components, and testing procedures.


• Produce and maintain engineering calculations, technical documentation, and risk assessments.


• Ensure designs comply with applicable safety regulations, industry standards, and customer requirements.


• Develop innovative and practical engineering solutions for industrial applications.

Technical Leadership

• Serve as the senior technical authority for electrical engineering matters.


• Ensure engineering designs, calculations, and assessments comply with statutory requirements and national electrical standards.


• Review and approve technical documentation and engineering deliverables.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with engineering, sales, supply chain, manufacturing, and production teams to support project execution.


• Provide technical guidance to resolve engineering challenges and support customer requirements.

Mentorship & Team Development

• Mentor and coach junior and intermediate engineers.


• Foster technical knowledge sharing and support the professional development of engineering team members.


• Promote engineering best practices and continuous improvement.

Troubleshooting & Problem Solving

• Diagnose and resolve complex electrical and control system issues.


• Develop effective solutions that maintain project quality, timelines, and customer satisfaction.

Reporting & Communication

• Prepare technical reports, project updates, and engineering presentations for management and stakeholders.


• Clearly communicate project progress, technical risks, and recommended solutions.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation

• Evaluate emerging technologies, engineering tools, and industry best practices.


• Support process improvements that enhance engineering efficiency, product quality, and overall project performance.

Qualifications

Education & Professional Designation

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Power), Automation & Control Engineering, or a related discipline.


• Registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in good standing with Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO).

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive electrical engineering experience in a senior engineering role.


• Extensive experience designing and developing:




• Motor Control Centres (MCC)


• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)


• Switchgear systems




• Strong understanding of the complete product development lifecycle within a fast-paced, high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.


• Experience applying Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Excellence (DFX), and modular/configurable product design principles.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in PLC and HMI programming using Allen-Bradley and Siemens platforms; experience with Mitsubishi systems is considered an asset.


• Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical and EPLAN.


• Strong knowledge of industrial motor control systems, VFDs, soft starters, and automation technologies.


• Ability to develop engineering documentation, calculations, technical specifications, and risk assessments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification or practical experience.


• Experience working in custom-engineered manufacturing environments.


• Strong attention to detail and the ability to excel in a production-focused environment.

Leadership Competencies

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong leadership and project management skills with the ability to lead complex engineering initiatives.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.


• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.


• The ability to influence cross-functional teams and build collaborative working relationships.


• A proactive approach to continuous improvement and innovation.


• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Core Competencies

The organization values professionals who consistently demonstrate the following:

• Ethics & Integrity – Acts with honesty, professionalism, fairness, and respect while maintaining confidentiality and building trust.


• Accountability – Takes ownership of responsibilities, follows through on commitments, and accepts responsibility for results.


• Strategic Thinking – Understands organizational objectives and identifies opportunities to improve processes and outcomes.


• Action Orientation – Demonstrates initiative, solves problems proactively, and responds effectively to changing priorities.


• Continuous Learning – Embraces feedback, pursues professional development, and remains current with evolving technologies and industry trends.


• Teamwork & Collaboration – Builds positive working relationships and contributes to an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative workplace.


• Results Orientation – Delivers high-quality work while meeting project objectives, deadlines, and customer expectations.