Senior Electrical Engineer

The Senior Electrical Engineer leads a diverse portfolio of projects within the campus electrical utilities system, applying advanced expertise in industry standards, best practices, and emerging technologies. Recognized as a highly skilled individual contributor, this role drives technical excellence and innovation across the organization.
The ideal candidate for this position brings deep experience in the design, construction, commissioning, and maintenance of medium-voltage generation and distribution systems, building electrical services, system protection, site lighting, and renewable energy solutions. Strong knowledge of power distribution-including normal and emergency systems-is complemented by proficiency in the National Electrical Code (NEC), ANSI/IEEE standards, energy codes, and applicable NFPA requirements.
This role works with a high degree of autonomy under the general guidance of a principal electrical engineer, but has the discretion to make daily operational decisions. Given an understanding of best practices, the senior engineer convincingly recommends impactful capital and process improvements.
Leveraging advanced analytical and technical skills, this position diagnoses complex challenges and delivers integrated, forward-thinking solutions-connecting technology, processes, and people to enhance system performance and reliability.
Position Responsibilities

• Design, Engineering & Construction (60%)
  • Design and implement facility and utility electrical distribution system alterations/improvements of moderate to high complexity for in-house construction projects. Prepare labor and material estimates, order equipment, support construction and commission new installations. Assignments may include high-level work for training/development purposes.
  • Support construction activities and field questions for projects.
  • Review designs and reports prepared by outside design firms to ensure conformity with University standards, and operational and safety practices.
  • Direct project design concerns to University leaders and/or correspond directly with project team leads.
  • Inspect construction in progress for conformity to plans and specifications.
  • Support the commissioning effort for 13.8 kV distribution systems and building main service equipment on major capital projects.
  • Perform electrical system modeling and analysis using SKM to evaluate designs for safety and equipment ratings.
  • Proactively investigate field problems and independently develop engineering solutions.
  • Participation in keeping University electrical construction standards up-to-date and inline with current construction methods and equipment technologies.
• Operations & Maintenance (25%)
  • Implementing and guiding the proper operations and maintenance of a campus 13.8 kV electrical distribution system and main electrical services in buildings.
  • Supporting inter-departmental steam and chilled water utilities with technical expertise and solutions.
  • Coordinating electrical operations and interconnections with the local electric utility that serves the University, while serving as a technical resource for University trade personnel.
  • Assist in development of operations and maintenance procedures.
• Planning & Stewardship (10%)
  • Identifying and planning for future capital expenditures. Assist with long-range planning to help the University maintain a safe, reliable and cost effective electric utility, and to protect its assets.
  • Stewarding of the University’s assets; assisting institutional leadership in protecting these assets to maintain safe and reliable facilities for teaching, research and outreach.
  • Provide significant input to develop and maintain University electrical utility master planning documentation.
• Leadership (5%)
  • Mentoring and guiding student intern(s) and junior engineer(s) in their work.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.
Hybrid Explain the work environment. Initial in office period, moving to hybrid.

Required

• Graduate from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and at least six years of progressively more responsible experience in design, technical evaluation, and project review activities in the areas of electrical power distribution and operations is required. State of Minnesota registration in electrical engineering is encouraged but not required.
• Proficient developing design drawings with or without the use of AutoCAD and accompanying specifications for the renewal of both low and medium voltage electrical distribution equipment.
• Proficient in power system design, construction, commissioning, and operation and maintenance.
• Proficient comprehension of AC and DC schematics for power systems.
• Extensive knowledge with proven ability to interpret and exercise reasonable judgment applying industry construction standards and building codes.
• Self-motivated, proactive professional with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Coordinates and prioritizes multiple tasks, resolves problems, negotiates solutions, and identifies and analyzes unit and departmental priorities.
• Highly developed written (including technical writing), verbal, interpersonal skills.

Preferred

• Registered Professional Engineer, or working towards licensure in the State of Minnesota.
• Proficient in power systems analysis software (e.g. SKM Powertools).
• Experienced with protective relays settings and commissioning.
• Demonstrated ability to gain support and commitment from others.
• Adaptable and thrive in a changing environment.
• Experience or ability to use software applications such as AutoCAD, GIS and SKM PTW or other electrical modeling software.

Physical and Environmental Requirements
Work is performed in an office setting as well as out in the field. This position will be exposed to hazardous conditions where hearing and visual protection may be required. Must be able to walk and climb to physically access and view various sites.

Energy Management oversees the reliable, safe and efficient operation of mechanical, electrical, and civil utilities systems in approximately 250 complex buildings on the Twin Cities campus. Home to the University’s technical and professional engineering staff, as well as a select group of skilled tradespeople, the group maintains the campus utility infrastructure and provides technical and engineering expertise to the U’s Capital Planning, Facilities Management building operations, and other facilities-related units across the U of M system. The Twin Cities campus has a total electric utility budget of approximately $51M per year. The infrastructure required to safely and reliably distribute this energy includes more than twelve miles of underground steam tunnels and five medium voltage (13,800 Volt) switch stations. The Energy Management group manages and maintains this complex infrastructure, as well as overseeing storm water management, sanitary sewer systems, municipal water distribution, chilled water distribution, steam and condensate, and compressed air systems.

Pay Range: $121,000 – $140,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online Application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

• To be considered for this position, a resume and cover letter must be attached to your application

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).