What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Staff Electrical Engineer position at Vogrinc Search Group?
Outstanding opportunity for an experienced Electrical Engineer who wants to drive product development and innovation of medium-voltage (MV) applications for the utility sector.
The Senior Staff Electrical Engineer will contribute to the design, development, and technical support of the company’s MV utility products. The ideal candidate brings deep non-automotive, power systems expertise and a passion for medium-voltage applications. This person will work closely with customers to customize solutions that meet utility standards and identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation.
Candidates with strong medium-voltage power systems fundamentals will gain hands-on experience in pad-mounted product design and have a growth path to a Principal Engineer role. This is a highly visible, collaborative position based on site in Novi, MI.
Responsibilities include:
- Support and lead the electrical design and component selection for medium-voltage products (5kV – 35kV), including primary metering cabinets and primary metering switchgear. Lead design and development from concept through commercialization with effective collaboration with marketing, supply chain, sales, and customer channels.
- Review utility customer specifications and utility standards to generate custom engineering packages, including Bill of Materials (BOM), three-line diagrams, and control schematics. Ensure all designs comply with applicable industry standards (e.g., IEEE, ANSI, UL).
- Design and specify protection schemes involving relays, CTs/PTs (instrument transformers), and sensing devices.
- Collaborate with mechanical engineers to ensure electrical clearances, thermal management, and safety aspects are maintained within compact pad-mount enclosures.
- Oversee prototype builds and define test procedures at both the component level (instrument transformers, fuses, relays, load-break switches) and system-level products, including dielectric testing, and partial discharge analysis.
- Serve as a high-level technical resource for the sales team and customers, assisting with complex troubleshooting, installation inquiries, and field commissioning support.
- Join Voice of Customer (VOC) calls and field visits with customers to understand product use-cases, pain points, and opportunities for product innovation.
Requirements:
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) required, advanced degree/PE license a plus.
- 5 years of engineering experience in power systems, with demonstrated exposure to medium-voltage equipment (5kV–35kV) in any of the following contexts: electric utility operations, switchgear or equipment manufacturing, power distribution, power generation, industrial or commercial power systems, or power systems consulting and engineering services.
- Deep understanding of medium-voltage power distribution, arc interruption theories, and insulation coordination.
- Familiarity with medium-voltage power system components including instrument transformers (CTs/PTs), switching devices, and insulating/shielding systems. Experience may span design, specification, testing, commissioning, or maintenance contexts.
- Proficiency in MS Office with advanced Excel skills, 2D/3D CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical, Draftsight, SolidWorks, or similar) and ERP systems for BOM management.
- Experience with power system analysis software, ANSYS Electrical, and/or PCB design and communication/control a plus.
- Familiarity with revenue metering requirements for electric utilities preferred.
- Adept at engaging customers to identify and understand pain points and develop innovative solutions in response.
- Outstanding attention to detail, ability to prioritize effectively and shift focus as needed while working on multiple projects.
- Ability to work effectively as an individual contributor and as part of a team, leading and mentoring when necessary. Excellent communicator, able to leverage various communication tools appropriately and effectively.