Principal Engineer

PowerSecure • $120K — $150K *
Durham, NC 27713In-Person
Energy & Utilities
11 - 15 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar field.
  • 15+ years of relevant experience in mechanical project work.
  • Expertise in mechanical system modeling and optimization for complex systems.
  • Strong mentoring skills to guide junior and mid-level engineers.
  • Proficient in energy engineering studies and technical reporting.
  • Knowledge of mechanical and electrical system integration and construction project management.
  • PE license preferred, indicating advanced technical proficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and implementation of mechanical and electrical system projects in customer facilities.
  • Conduct site investigations, energy analyses, and finalize cost estimates and reports.
  • Provide senior-level technical leadership and act as a subject matter expert in mechanical engineering design.
  • Coordinate with electrical and construction teams for cohesive system designs.
  • Manage project scoping and feasibility assessments to ensure technical excellence.
  • Represent engineering interests in customer meetings and cross-functional discussions.
  • Oversee the design engineering process from development through construction.

Benefits

  • Remote work flexibility.
  • Travel to customer sites for field surveys.
  • Opportunity to engage with diverse projects across energy systems.
  • Professional development through mentoring and coaching roles.
Full Job Description
Job Summary:

The Principal Mechanical Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for mechanical systems across PowerSecure. This position provides advanced engineering leadership, mentorship, and oversight on complex mechanical system designs,
including chilled water plants, hydronic systems, HVAC distribution, thermal energy systems, including both integration with distributed energy resources as well as balance of plant systems design. The Principal Engineer leads engineering work to develop and implement energy efficiency and energy production projects for customer facilities. Projects include energy efficiency upgrades, renewable energy systems, and distributed energy installations. The Principal Engineer is responsible for managing and conducting engineering studies, analyses, and project development. The Principal Engineer manages mechanical and electrical construction projects from pre-contract through final implementation and customer turnover.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills):
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or another qualified technical field.
  • 15+ years of experience with similar project work.
  • Advanced proficiency in mechanical system modeling, optimization, and performance analysis for complex building and industrial systems.
  • Experience developing engineering standards, best practices, and technical procedures for organizational adoption.
  • Experience with energy engineering, including conducting engineering studies, analyzing energy consuming systems, and writing technical reports.
  • Experience with development and implementation of facility infrastructure projects.
  • Strong capability to mentor, coach, and technically develop junior and mid-level engineers.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred (or ability to obtain), reflecting advanced technical competence and professionalism.
  • Expert-level knowledge of advanced mechanical system design including chilled water plants, hydronic systems, complex HVAC architectures, and thermal energy systems.
  • Extensive knowledge of utility billing for electric, natural gas, water, and other infrastructure systems.
  • Extensive knowledge of facility electrical systems and equipment.
  • Extensive knowledge of engineering analysis methods for analyzing energy consumption of mechanical and electrical systems in buildings.
  • Extensive knowledge of regulatory requirements, industry codes, and standards (ASHRAE, NFPA, building codes) relevant to mechanical system design and construction.
  • Ability to develop, implement, and refine engineering standards, specifications, and best-practice guidelines for organizational use.
  • Knowledge of methods for measurement and verification (M&V) for energy efficiency projects.
  • Proficient in the Microsoft 365 suite-including Word, Excel, Project, PowerPoint, and Teams-with additional capability to effectively use business software tools such as AutoCAD, SharePoint, Power BI, and Bluebeam Revu.
  • Excellent organizational skills and experience with managing and coordinating projects.
  • High-level ability to engage with executives, customers, and stakeholders, conveying complex technical concepts clearly and persuasively.
  • Able to travel to customer facilities to conduct building surveys.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Candidate shall have extensive experience with development and implementation of mechanical and electrical system projects in customer facilities. Responsibilities include site investigations, analyzing energy use, finalizing savings calculations, finalizing cost estimates and written reports. In addition, the engineer manages engineering and design for implementation of design-build projects. Candidate has extensive familiarity with facility systems including chilled and hot water systems, air handling systems, building controls, and electrical distribution systems. The engineer works with other team members, and interfaces with customers, subconsultants, product vendors, subcontractors, and others to lead projects through development. Candidate
    must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, analytical skills, and experience with building mechanical and electrical systems.
  • In addition to the above, the Principal Mechanical Engineer is expected to provide senior-level technical leadership and oversight, acting as a subject matter expert in mechanical system design, optimization, and integration. Candidate must demonstrate deep expertise in advanced mechanical engineering principles, complex system modeling, and cross-disciplinary
    engineering coordination. Experience leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams, conducting high-level technical reviews, establishing engineering standards, and mentoring junior staff is essential. Candidate must have a proven track record of guiding largescale or technically complex projects, advising stakeholders at all levels, and ensuring engineering excellence throughout project lifecycles. Strong strategic thinking abilities and the capacity to influence technical direction across programs and initiatives are required. Provide senior level technical oversight, review, and approval of mechanical engineering deliverables across multiple projects.
  • Represent engineering leadership in customer meetings, cross functional coordination sessions, and executive level discussions.
  • Coordinate mechanical engineering integration with electrical, controls, and construction teams to ensure cohesive system designs.
  • Serve as the senior technical point of contact for high priority or complex customer engagements.
  • Provide oversight and direction during project scoping, feasibility assessments, and early stage conceptual engineering.
  • Support quality assurance processes, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and technical excellence in all mechanical engineering output.
  • Support sales team as required with customer interactions.
  • Lead and oversee the design engineering process for both new project development initiatives and projects progressing through full design and construction.
  • Prepare and finalize reports and other documentation required for project work.
  • Comply with safety requirements in the workplace and at customer sites.

Working Conditions:
  • This position is remote.
  • Travel required to customer facilities to conduct field surveys as needed.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours to accommodate different time zones (Central/Eastern/Mountain/Pacific), if necessary.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management reserves the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time, based on business needs.

About PowerSecure

PowerSecure Careers

Joining PowerSecure offers a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic team that leads in providing innovative energy solutions. This is an ideal time to engage with a company that values growth, leadership, and professional development.

Explore Job Opportunities

PowerSecure seeks talented individuals to contribute to and benefit from the company's commitment to industry leadership and innovation. Explore a range of job opportunities that can propel a career to new heights in an environment that fosters diversity and inclusion.

Experience Professional Growth

At PowerSecure, career growth is not just a possibility—it is a priority. With a variety of professional development and diversity training programs, employees are equipped to excel in their roles and beyond. The company supports career advancement through robust training, mentorship, and access to cutting-edge projects.

Engage in Meaningful Work

PowerSecure is dedicated to transforming the energy sector through innovative solutions. Employees at PowerSecure take on challenging projects that drive significant change and have a positive impact on communities and the environment.

Join a Diverse and Inclusive Team

The culture at PowerSecure is built on a foundation of respect and inclusion, where diverse perspectives are valued and contribute to the company's success. The team at PowerSecure is composed of dedicated professionals from various backgrounds, all working together to achieve common goals.

Internship Opportunities

For those starting their career journey, PowerSecure offers internship programs that provide hands-on experience and a chance to develop essential skills in the energy sector. Internships at PowerSecure are a gateway to full-time employment and a successful career in the industry.

Benefits and Employee Well-being

PowerSecure is committed to the well-being of its team members, offering comprehensive benefits designed to support both personal and professional life. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as wellness programs that promote a balanced lifestyle.

Networking and Leadership Opportunities

Employees are encouraged to engage in networking events and leadership training to enhance their skills and advance their careers. PowerSecure fosters an environment where taking initiative and leading innovation are part of daily life.

Apply Today

Discover the positions available at PowerSecure that match your skills and interests. PowerSecure is actively hiring and looking for individuals who are passionate, curious, and driven to excel in their professional fields.

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Whether looking for an internship, entry-level, or executive position, PowerSecure offers a range of opportunities to join a leading team in the energy sector. Start your journey today by exploring the positions available and submitting your resume for consideration.
Learn more about PowerSecure
Industry
Energy & Utilities
* Ladders Estimates

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