American Electric Power

Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer Principal | NEW GENERATION and Oversight Engineering

American Electric Power$117K — $151K *
Energy & Utilities
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (ABET accredited preferred) with 8+ years of experience; or Master's/PhD with 6+ years of experience.
  • Preferred: Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certifications.
  • Experience in instrumentation and controls engineering, especially in power generation projects.
  • Knowledge of gas, coal, and renewable energy projects.
  • Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and SCADA systems.

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with AE and EPC firms on design basis for I&C systems.
  • Ensure OT and IT systems meet design standards and industry best practices.
  • Manage OT Network for integration and communication.
  • Implement cybersecurity strategies for control systems.
  • Facilitate stakeholder communication for project alignment.
  • Engage with OEMs to ensure technical compliance during RFx processes.
  • Support the creation of retrofitting and new generation equipment documentation.

Benefits

  • Discretionary short-/long-term incentives.
  • 401(k) and pension plans.
  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Paid vacation and educational assistance programs.
Full Job Description
Job Posting End Date
09-05-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing advance engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with AE and EPC firms to define and implement design basis expectations for I&C systems.
  • Ensure OT and IT systems meet design requirements and incorporate industry best practices.
  • Manage the Operational Technology (OT) Network and associated devices for seamless system integration and communication.
  • Implement cybersecurity best practices to safeguard control systems from threats.
  • Facilitate communication with internal and external stakeholders to align project goals.
  • Engage with OEMs during RFx processes to ensure compliance with technical specifications
  • Support the creation of plant retrofit and new generation equipment and AE/EPC services scope documents and subsequent self-build proposals.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop safe, reliable, and compliant control strategies.
  • Support the development and review of technical specifications, EPC specifications, and designs.
  • Support the construction of retrofit and/or new build projects to ensure successful implementation.
  • Assist in managing technology evolution and addressing obsolescence concerns.


Knowledge and Skills:
  • Solid grasp of control theory, including PID, adaptive, and model predictive control.
  • Ability to interpret and create technical documentation (e.g., System Descriptions, SAMA logic diagrams, P&IDs, schematics).
  • Experience with servers, thin clients, network equipment, and computer-based instrumentation is a plus.
  • Understanding of cybersecurity principles for control systems.
  • Data analysis skills to monitor and enhance system performance.
  • Proficiency in MS Access, Excel, Word, SQL, SharePoint, or Visual Basic is a plus.
  • Familiarity with CEMS, renewable energy systems (solar, battery, wind), or regulatory compliance is advantageous.
  • Strong communication skills for team collaboration.


Working Conditions:
  • Approximately 25% travel, including day trips and overnight stays (up to a week or more).
  • Work in both indoor and outdoor environments with exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, fumes, and operating machinery.
  • Mandatory safety gear required at generating stations: hard hat, eye/hearing protection, steel-toed shoes with heels and non-slip soles.
  • Adherence to site-specific safety requirements is mandatory.


DESIGNATION -- onsite/in the office every day when not traveling for work

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Technical Expertise: Exhibits advanced level proficiency plus advanced knowledge of a specialized technical area that enables the engineer to serve as a resource for the company in an area such as system production, underground systems, extensive control systems, thermo-hydraulic control systems, distribution standards, fossil or nuclear plant operations, etc.

Leadership & Guidance: Influences the direction of thinking throughout the organizational unit as a recognized authority in an area of expertise. Leads, facilitates and coordinates work activities of others within work group, team, department, corporate entity, or those external to the company and assumes the role of project or function manager for assigned tasks.

Planning & Organization Ability: Develops, recommends, and implements plans that include all scheduling, resource, and cost information and control required to address complex engineering problems that require the input and efforts of a wide array of entities both internal and external to the company.

Problem Solving & Initiative: Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to complex problems that require multi-functional, or organizational, interfacing and/or multi-disciplined analytical techniques. Develops opportunities and new ideas and approaches that have system-wide impact.

Communication: Leads in the preparation and presentation of complex technical subjects, clearly, concisely, and persuasively, bringing in ancillary issues before senior management, professional organizations, regulatory bodies, etc. Projects credibility and competence on technical issues and has highly developed presentation skills.

Interpersonal Skills: Builds teams and networks that extend through AEP, and other companies, professional organizations, regulatory agencies, and academia. Networks throughout AEP, other companies, professional organizations, and regulatory agencies.

Decision Making: Possesses the experience and knowledge to make some technical decisions based on calculated risks without management review. Makes decisions affecting long range plans and goals based on analysis of highly uncertain input and outcomes. Visualizes long-term results. Makes decisions where differences of opinion are likely to exist. Makes decisions that have an impact across organizational boundaries.

Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates vision in identifying business opportunities for the organizational unit. Understands how strategies and decisions impact the relationship with our customers and suppliers.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*; or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*. Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Acceptable alternative is:

(1) a Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation is preferred to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

***VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working with gas, coal, and renewable energy projects.
  • Knowledge of industry best practices and emerging technologies in I&C systems.
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license or equivalent certifications.
  • Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or Process Engineering.
  • Proven experience in instrumentation and controls engineering, particularly in power generation projects.
    • Strong understanding of gas/combustion turbine technology and GE Mark VIe control systems
  • Hands-on experience with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and SCADA systems (e.g., AB Rockwell, Emerson Ovation, ABB Symphony, GE Mark VIe, Siemens, or Vestas is a plus).
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in complex environments.
  • Strong understanding of OT and IT systems integration and cybersecurity practices.
  • Familiarity with network configuration, protocols (e.g., Firewalls, Ethernet, Modbus, OPC), and datalink setup is advantageous.


WHAT YOU'LL GET

Base Salary: $117K - $151K

In addition to base salary, AEP offers competitive Total Rewards including: discretionary short-/long-term incentives, 401(k), pension, health insurance, vacation, educational assistance, etc.

AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER (on-site)

$117K - $151K / Year

#AEPCareers #LI-ONSITE

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-009

Compensation Range:

$116,255.00 - $151,132.50

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.

About American Electric Power

American Electric Power generates, transmits, and distributes electricity, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers nationwide. AEP serves millions of customers across 11 states. It operates in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, providing power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. AEP generates electricity using diverse sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable energy like wind and solar. The company maintains a vast transmission network that delivers electricity from power plants to local distribution systems, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. AEP is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, investing in wind farms and solar facilities to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the company engages in community outreach, supporting education, environmental conservation, and various social initiatives.

American Electric Power Careers

Join the dynamic team at American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, and ignite your career with a company known for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the energy sector.

Opportunities Await

At AEP, we offer a multitude of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional interests. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, our diverse range of employment options ensures that there's a place for every ambitious individual in our team.

Grow and Innovate

Embark on a journey of growth and professional development with AEP. Our company is at the forefront of the energy industry’s transformation, integrating sustainable and innovative practices that not only lead the market but also contribute to a greener planet. Engage in work that challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the energy sector.

Culture and Benefits

AEP is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, where every team member’s contribution is valued. We offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs and diversity training, AEP ensures that our team is equipped for both personal and professional success.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an AEP internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities that pave the way for future employment. Interns at AEP work on real projects, learn from seasoned professionals, and gain the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of energy.

Leadership and Development

Leadership at AEP means more than guiding teams – it involves inspiring change and driving innovation. With leadership development programs, employees are prepared to take on challenging roles that shape the future of the company and the industry. Our focus on leadership and continuous improvement creates an environment where ambitious professionals can thrive.

Join Our Team

Explore the career possibilities at American Electric Power today. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are constantly hiring new talent and look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, ace the interview, and join a company where your career can flourish.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at AEP by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and career tips that you can put to use today—all from the people who work here.

Career Alerts

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at American Electric Power.

Explore American Electric Power Jobs

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, AEP offers a dynamic work environment where innovation, leadership, and growth are part of everyday life. Join us in powering a new and brighter future for everyone.
Learn more about American Electric Power
Size
16,688 employees
Market Cap
$48.8 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at American Electric Power

More Energy & Utilities Jobs

Find similar Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer Principal | NEW GENERATION and Oversight Engineering jobs: