Lead Electrical Engineer (Houston)

Job Summary The Lead Electrical Engineer is responsible for providing technical leadership in the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of electrical control systems and components, with a focus on medium and high voltage systems. This role leads electrical engineering efforts across projects, sets technical standards, mentors engineering staff, and serves as the primary technical authority for switchgear design, electrical protection systems, and safety compliance. The Lead Electrical Engineer collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient integration with PLC/SCADA systems and drives continuous improvement across electrical engineering processes.

Duties and Responsibilities Lead the design, development, review, and troubleshooting of electrical control systems for medium and high voltage applications. Provide technical ownership and oversight for switchgear design and electrical system architecture to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and efficiency. Establish, implement, and enforce electrical engineering standards, best practices, and design guidelines across projects.

Lead and support electrical upgrades and modifications to existing systems, ensuring minimal operational downtime and adherence to safety requirements. Oversee and review arc flash studies to ensure compliance with applicable safety standards and regulatory requirements. Guide the development and implementation of relay protection schemes and electrical equipment protection strategies.

Collaborate with PLC/SCADA, controls, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration and communication between electrical systems and automation platforms. Serve as the primary technical resource and subject matter expert for electrical engineering matters for internal teams and external stakeholders. Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior and mid-level engineers, fostering professional development and knowledge sharing.

Support project planning, resource allocation, and technical risk assessment across multiple concurrent projects. Stay current with emerging technologies, industry standards, and regulatory changes to drive innovation, reliability, and continuous improvement. Ensure all electrical engineering activities comply with company policies, safety standards, and applicable codes and regulations.

Required Qualifications Advanced knowledge of medium and high voltage systems, including switchgear design, relay logic, electrical equipment protection, and arc flash analysis. Demonstrated experience implementing and enforcing electrical engineering standards and best practices. Strong working knowledge of PLC/SCADA systems and their integration with electrical control systems.

Proven leadership and mentorship capabilities within an engineering environment. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a high level of technical rigor and attention to detail.

Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects while providing technical direction and oversight. In-depth knowledge of applicable safety standards and regulations, including NFPA 70E and IEEE standards.