Principal Project Engineer

California Bioenergy LLC•Bakersfield, CA

20h•$140,000 - $165,000

About The Position

The Principal Project Engineer plays a significant role in delivering complex renewable‑energy projects from early development through construction and commissioning. A bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or related Engineering discipline with EIT or PE is required. This position will manage the technical aspects of projects while keeping overall project goals in mind. This position blends deep technical expertise with cross‑functional leadership, ensuring that engineering designs are optimized, risks are managed, and projects are executed safely, on schedule, and within budget.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or related Engineering discipline required.
7+ years of progressive engineering and project management experience.
Strong knowledge of engineering principles, project delivery methods, and relevant industry codes/standards.
Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, or similar).
Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with experience leading multidisciplinary teams

Responsibilities

Lead engineering design, analysis, and optimization for hybrid renewable‑energy projects.
Review and approve engineering drawings, specifications, and calculations prepared by internal teams and external consultants.
Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and permitting requirements (NEC, IEEE, UL, IFC, local AHJ requirements, etc.).
Conduct technical due diligence for new sites, technologies, and equipment suppliers.
Support energy‑yield modeling, system sizing, and performance analysis.
Serve as the technical lead throughout project lifecycle — development, design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover.
Coordinate with EPC partners, contractors, and equipment vendors to resolve engineering issues and maintain design integrity.
Oversee technical aspects of procurement, including equipment specifications, bid evaluations, and vendor qualification.
Support construction teams with RFIs, field engineering decisions, and quality‑control oversight.
Participate in commissioning planning, testing, and performance verification.
Work closely with development, permitting, finance, and commercial teams to evaluate project feasibility and optimize designs.
Provide engineering input for interconnection studies, utility coordination, and grid‑integration requirements.
Prepare technical documentation for internal approvals, investment committees, and external stakeholders.
Identify technical risks and propose mitigation strategies throughout the project lifecycle.
Ensure adherence to safety standards, environmental requirements, and quality‑assurance processes.
Maintain accurate engineering records, design revisions, and project documentation.