Staff Electrical Engineer

RINA•Chicago, IL

13d•$87,000 - $100,000•Onsite

About The Position

RINA is recruiting an entry-level Staff Electrical Engineer for its Electrical Engineering and Power Systems Division, based in Houston, Texas, or Chicago/Lisle, Illinois. The role offers an opportunity to develop expertise in electrical power distribution design, power systems analysis, and engineering consulting while supporting projects for industrial, commercial, utility, and infrastructure clients. The engineer will assist with system design and calculations, develop power system models, participate in field investigations, and prepare technical documentation under the guidance of experienced engineers. The position is intended for recent graduates and early-career engineers seeking hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and career advancement. Work includes supporting low- and medium-voltage distribution design, performing power system studies, collecting field data, maintaining engineering documentation, and contributing to quality assurance and quality control. The engineer is expected to develop knowledge of applicable codes and standards and work toward Engineer-in-Training certification and eventual Professional Engineer licensure. The stated compensation range is $87,000–$100,000, commensurate with education and experience. The role requires a valid driver's license and willingness to travel to client facilities and project sites as required.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university or equivalent recognized engineering program.
0–3 years of relevant electrical engineering experience; recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
Foundational knowledge of electrical engineering principles, including three-phase power systems, transformers, motors, protective devices, and power distribution.
Basic understanding of electrical circuit analysis, power calculations, and electrical equipment.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Word.
Ability to read, interpret, and develop technical drawings and engineering documentation.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple assignments and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
Willingness to travel to client facilities and project sites as required.
Valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Engineer-in-Training certification or successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering exam.
Internship, co-op, or work experience in electrical engineering, power distribution, utilities, or industrial facilities.
Familiarity with power system analysis software such as SKM PowerTools, EasyPower, ETAP, or similar tools.
Experience with AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, or other engineering design software.
Exposure to electrical distribution systems, protective relaying, substations, or industrial electrical equipment.
Basic knowledge of the National Electrical Code, IEEE standards, and electrical safety practices.
Interest in field engineering, electrical equipment evaluations, and power system studies.

Responsibilities

Assist in designing and developing low- and medium-voltage electrical power distribution systems.
Prepare and update electrical drawings, including single-line and three-line diagrams, equipment layouts, schematics, and installation details.
Support overhead and underground distribution system design, including feeders, transformers, switchgear, switchboards, motor control centers, and related equipment.
Perform engineering calculations for equipment and conductor sizing, voltage drop, loads, grounding, and conduit sizing.
Assist with equipment specifications, material lists, and technical documentation.
Review vendor drawings, equipment submittals, and specifications for compliance with project requirements.
Coordinate with engineering disciplines, project managers, and clients to support project execution.
Develop and maintain electrical power system models using SKM PowerTools, EasyPower, ETAP, or similar software.
Assist with short-circuit, protective device coordination, arc flash hazard, load flow, voltage drop, motor starting, equipment duty, and harmonic studies.
Collect and evaluate electrical equipment data for accurate system modeling.
Analyze study results, identify system deficiencies, and assist in developing engineering recommendations.
Prepare technical reports, calculations, study deliverables, and supporting documentation under senior and principal engineer guidance.
Participate in site visits at industrial facilities, substations, utility installations, and client locations.
Conduct electrical equipment surveys and collect nameplate data, conductor characteristics, protective device settings, and system configurations.
Verify existing electrical drawings and assist in preparing accurate as-built documentation.
Coordinate with facility personnel to understand existing systems and operational requirements.
Follow applicable safety procedures and complete electrical safety training for industrial and utility environments.
Perform engineering assignments under the supervision of experienced professional engineers.
Support quality assurance and quality control processes.
Develop knowledge of applicable codes, standards, and best practices, including NEC, NESC, NFPA 70E, IEEE, and utility standards.
Maintain accurate engineering documentation and meet project schedules and deliverable requirements.
Participate in technical training, knowledge-sharing, and professional development opportunities.
Work toward Engineer-in-Training certification and eventual Professional Engineer licensure.