Principal Engineer Jobs in Michigan
Principal Engineer jobs in Michigan are in strong demand, with active hiring concentrated in automotive engineering, advanced manufacturing, and software systems across sectors from mobility technology to defense. Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids are the primary hiring centers, where established employers like General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Stellantis regularly bring on principal engineers at mid-career through senior leadership levels. The most sought-after specialties in Michigan include embedded systems, vehicle electrification, and systems architecture. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 36+ Principal Engineer jobs
What You Will Do:
Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today’s diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here.
What you’ll be challenged to do:
As a Principal Substation Engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients.
In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
- Develop substation layout drawings including, plan and elevations, yard layouts, grounding, grounding details, raceway, raceway details, control building layouts, cable lists, and material lists on new and existing substations.
- Develop substation one lines, three lines, Aux AC Power Systems, DC Power Systems, DC Schematics, SCADA and Communications Systems, Relay Panel Layouts, Equipment Wiring, and Cable Schedules for new and existing substations.
- Prepare calculations and reports presenting the calculations to clients.
- Prepare equipment specifications, for substation equipment, components, and construction.
- Responsible for managing the technical, financial, and scheduling aspects of substation projects.
- May act in th capacity of project manager, client manager or capture/proposal manager.
- Build, maintain, and manage the necessary skills, resources, and expertise to develop and deliver strategic services, partnerships, programs, and projects.
- Collaborate internally to pursue power substation projects regionally and nationally with the objective of increasing GFT presence in the power delivery business.
- Provides QA/QC reviews.
-
Mentor or lead a staff of engineers and other technical specialist
Develop and nurture client relationships and work across multiple disciplines in other offices. - Assume an active role in the preparation of proposals bids, reports and presentations
Education | Experience:
- Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
- Professional Engineer License
- 15 +years progressive experience in design, engineering and project management within power and utility industry.
- Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering profession.
- Demonstrated ability with project management software and tools (Microsoft Project or similar) for scope, schedule, and budget management.
- Design experience in high voltage substation, and distribution projects.
- Experience in the creation of quality technical solutions and the design delivery of major power delivery projects.
- Commitment to driving strong business performance, continuous improvement, and best practices.
- Advanced Degree strongly preferred.
- Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation or Inventor
Compensation:
The salary range for this role is $147,000-$175,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.
Featured Benefits:
- Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
- Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
- Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
- Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
- Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
- Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
- Incentive compensation for eligible positions.
Company Overview:
Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™
GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.
Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.
Location: Remote
Employment Status: Full-Time
#LI-NA1
"California Applicants"
Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.
Gannett Fleming does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.
Application deadline 9/20/2026
What You Will Do:
Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today’s diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here.
What you’ll be challenged to do:
As a Principal Substation Engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients.
In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
- Develop substation layout drawings including, plan and elevations, yard layouts, grounding, grounding details, raceway, raceway details, control building layouts, cable lists, and material lists on new and existing substations.
- Develop substation one lines, three lines, Aux AC Power Systems, DC Power Systems, DC Schematics, SCADA and Communications Systems, Relay Panel Layouts, Equipment Wiring, and Cable Schedules for new and existing substations.
- Prepare calculations and reports presenting the calculations to clients.
- Prepare equipment specifications, for substation equipment, components, and construction.
- Responsible for managing the technical, financial, and scheduling aspects of substation projects.
- May act in th capacity of project manager, client manager or capture/proposal manager.
- Build, maintain, and manage the necessary skills, resources, and expertise to develop and deliver strategic services, partnerships, programs, and projects.
- Collaborate internally to pursue power substation projects regionally and nationally with the objective of increasing GFT presence in the power delivery business.
- Provides QA/QC reviews.
-
Mentor or lead a staff of engineers and other technical specialist
Develop and nurture client relationships and work across multiple disciplines in other offices. - Assume an active role in the preparation of proposals bids, reports and presentations
Education | Experience:
- Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
- Professional Engineer License
- 15 +years progressive experience in design, engineering and project management within power and utility industry.
- Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering profession.
- Demonstrated ability with project management software and tools (Microsoft Project or similar) for scope, schedule, and budget management.
- Design experience in high voltage substation, and distribution projects.
- Experience in the creation of quality technical solutions and the design delivery of major power delivery projects.
- Commitment to driving strong business performance, continuous improvement, and best practices.
- Advanced Degree strongly preferred.
- Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation or Inventor
Compensation:
The salary range for this role is $147,000-$175,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.
Featured Benefits:
- Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
- Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
- Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
- Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
- Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
- Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
- Incentive compensation for eligible positions.
Company Overview:
Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™
GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.
Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.
Location: Remote
Employment Status: Full-Time
#LI-NA1
"California Applicants"
Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.
Gannett Fleming does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.
Application deadline 9/20/2026
See All 36 Principal Engineer Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Principal Engineer JobsPrincipal Engineer Jobs by City in Michigan
Where Michigan roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Principal Engineer Job Market in Michigan
A snapshot from current Michigan openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Electronics & Hardware
- Automotive
- Technology & Software
- Banking & Financial Services
- Energy
What Michigan Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in principal engineer jobs across Michigan.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related technical field
- Ten or more years of progressive engineering experience with demonstrated technical leadership
- Proven ability to set technical direction and mentor mid-level and senior engineers
- Deep expertise in at least one domain such as embedded systems, vehicle electrification, or systems architecture
- Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams including product, manufacturing, and program management
- Familiarity with automotive or defense industry standards such as ASPICE, ISO 26262, or CMMI
Principal Engineer Jobs in Michigan: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a principal engineer in Michigan?
Reaching a principal engineer level in Michigan typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, followed by a decade or more of progressively responsible technical work. While Michigan does not require a state-issued license for most software or systems principal engineer roles, those working on projects affecting public safety or infrastructure may need a Professional Engineer license issued through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Demonstrating end-to-end technical ownership on complex programs is the most direct path to the title.
Which companies hire principal engineers in Michigan?
Employers hiring principal engineers in Michigan right now include Harman, CVS Health, and Rocket, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Michigan's deep automotive and advanced manufacturing base means demand is especially consistent at vehicle OEMs, their Tier 1 suppliers, and aerospace and defense contractors with facilities in the state.
Which Michigan cities have the most principal engineer jobs?
Detroit, Novi, and Auburn Hills have the most principal engineer openings in Michigan. The Detroit metro drives the largest share of postings given its concentration of automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and mobility technology firms, while Ann Arbor adds volume through its university research ecosystem and growing software and autonomous vehicle companies, and Grand Rapids contributes through its manufacturing and medical device sectors.
Are there remote principal engineer jobs in Michigan?
Yes, though availability varies by specialty. Principal engineer roles in software, cloud infrastructure, and systems architecture are more likely to support remote or hybrid arrangements, while roles tied to vehicle testing, lab environments, or production facilities typically require on-site presence. About 42% of principal engineer openings tied to Michigan are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, with the strongest remote options found in software-focused positions at tech and mobility companies.
How can I get hired as a principal engineer in Michigan with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through a senior or staff engineer role at a Michigan automotive or technology employer, building a record of technical ownership before stepping into principal-level work. Large Michigan employers like General Motors and Ford run rotational engineering programs and new-graduate development tracks that accelerate progression. Earning a Professional Engineer license through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, or completing graduate coursework at institutions like the University of Michigan, strengthens a candidate's profile considerably when competing for principal-level openings.
Where can I find and apply to principal engineer jobs in Michigan?
You can find and apply to principal engineer jobs in Michigan on Migrate Mate, which lists current Michigan openings. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 36 Principal Engineer Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Principal Engineer Jobs