Principal Engineer - Electric RCA

Puget Sound Energy•Bothell, WA

8h•$124,600 - $207,400

About The Position

Puget Sound Energy is seeking a collaborative and innovative engineer to lead the continued development of our electric reliability Root Cause Analysis (RCA) program. This role plays a critical part in improving reliability across PSE’s transmission, distribution, and substation systems through thoughtful analysis, strategic problem solving, and strong cross-functional partnerships. The ideal candidate is naturally curious, highly motivated, and energized by solving complex operational and engineering challenges. They are comfortable navigating ambiguity, identifying opportunities for continuous improvement, and turning technical findings into actionable solutions that create value for both the business and our customers. This individual thrives in a collaborative utility environment and brings strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills. This position serves as a technical leader for electric reliability and root cause analysis initiatives, providing expert guidance on complex engineering issues, developing strategic reliability improvements, sharing knowledge across the organization, and ensuring solutions are aligned with PSE's operational and business objectives. Supports emergency response operations when needed and promotes a culture of safety, operational excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Upholds the safety compliance standards inherent in PSE’s operating and/or field procedures related to work responsibilities. Promotes and supports a culture of total safety. Demonstrates commitment to conduct business honestly, ethically and consistent with our core values and Code of Conduct. Ensures duties are performed in accordance with all regulatory compliance obligations. This job is considered “safety sensitive” as defined in RCW 49.44.240 and is subject to pre-employment drug screening that includes screening for the presence of marijuana and marijuana metabolites.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree or PE license in electrical, mechanical, civil, or other appropriate engineering field. A PE license may qualify in lieu of a degree.
Extensive experience in planning, design, specification preparation, maintenance, project cost estimating and scheduling (typically achieved after ten (10) or more years practice as a degreed engineer). Years of acquired experience is provided as a guide and alone does not constitute readiness for job level as individual’s skill acquisition rates can vary significantly.
Advanced technical and scientific expertise.
Experience leading engineering projects.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively and collaborate with a wide range of internal and external customers.

Nice To Haves

Experience with performing Root Cause Analysis evaluations.
Experience working in the utility industry.
Experience supporting reliability, asset management, maintenance, or operational improvement programs.
Familiar with codes and equipment utilized in the design and operation of utility systems.
Possession of a Professional Engineering license.
Knowledge of engineering economics and utility accounting practices.
Experience working on complex engineering projects.

Responsibilities

Manage, develop, and continuously improve the Root Cause Analysis (RCA) program as a key component of PSE's Reliability Strategy, supporting department objectives and long-term business goals through data-driven reliability improvements.
Prepare complex analyses, studies, reports, presentations, standards, and evaluations to support electric system reliability, operational performance, and strategic decision-making. Clearly communicate technical information and recommendations to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Collaborate and coordinate with cross-functional stakeholders including engineering, operations, maintenance, project management, contractors, consultants, and other internal business partners to develop practical and effective reliability solutions tailored to PSE’s business environment.
Plan, develop, and manage project or program budgets by preparing cost estimates, evaluations, and cost/benefit analyses, while documenting and presenting business needs, benefits, alternatives, and justifications.
Interpret and apply engineering principles, guidelines, codes, standards, and operational requirements to existing problems, processes, and system reliability initiatives, ensuring compliance with applicable design, operation, and maintenance requirements.
Maintain knowledge of industry developments, emerging technologies, reliability practices, and regulatory requirements, applying relevant best practices to advance PSE's reliability and business objectives.
Coordinate, lead, review, or support the work of engineers, engineering assistants, field technicians, contractors, consultants, and others assisting with assigned projects or program initiatives, including providing technical direction, leadership, training, and work review as appropriate.
Support emergency response efforts, including immediate and extended restoration activities driven by weather events or other system failures, and perform other duties as assigned. This position may be subject to random DOT drug and/or alcohol testing.