Senior Level Principal Structural Engineer Jobs
Senior level principal structural engineer jobs place experienced engineers at the helm of complex projects, with full ownership over technical decisions, design standards, and the teams delivering structural solutions. Openings are concentrated across Consulting & Professional Services, Energy, and Staffing & Recruiting, with a mix of on-site, remote, and hybrid settings, and employers like GFT, Stantec, and Cannon hiring at this level now.
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Showing 5 of 9+ Senior Level Principal Structural Engineer jobs
Job Posting End Date
11-23-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing complex engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
Job Description
What You’ll Do:
Specific Responsibilities:
- Conduct structural engineering of complex systems, activities, and projects in a safe, effective, efficient, and economical manner in the Office and in the field.
- Duties can include engineering and design of concrete, steel, masonry, wood, sheet piling, fiber reinforced plastic, for structures and other components utilized at electric generating facilities. Have the ability to complete all aspects of a project from initiation through completion.
- Conduct reviews of engineering designs, calculations, and drawings completed by consultants submitted for projects.
- Conduct infrastructure inspections and assessments, including the completion of inspection reports, of electric generating facilities are required and can include ductwork, stacks, bridges, tanks, river cells, and other components.
Knowledge and Skills:
- Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies.
- Must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the capability to identify solutions to unusual and complex problems and situations.
- Must have strong communication skills (verbal and written) and be comfortable conducting presentations and taking part in panel discussions.
- Must be a team player and network with internal and external stakeholders, and other resources within AEP, OEMs and AEs.
- Develops reviews or prepares reports on complex technical subjects clearly, concisely and effectively, in a manner suitable for presentation to management, professional societies, regulatory bodies, etc.
- Leads and facilitates meetings effectively.
Software & Applications Experience:
- Proficiency with MS Office Tools such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Having a working knowledge Of MicroStation and/or AutoCAD is encouraged and preferred.
- Proficiency in the use of structural modeling and design software. Experience utilizing STAAD or RISA is preferred.
Work Conditions, Environment, and Requirements:
- Candidate may be asked to adjust normal work schedule as required by the assigned task or project. Availability to work some overtime is required.
- Candidate must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Travel is required, up to 20%, to support outage and plant needs. Timing may be flexible and will consist of some day trips and some overnight, up to a week, possibly more.
- When visiting a power station, the use of a hard hat, eye and hearing protection, steel-toed shoes with distinctive heel and non-slip soles are required at all times. A respirator fit test may be required for unit inspection support.
- When visiting a power station, the candidate may be required to work in an environment that consists of exposure to hot surfaces, dust, grease, hazardous fumes and chemicals, loud noises, small and large operating machinery and equipment, indoors and outdoors in extreme heat and cold, rain, ice, snow, and all other forms of weather.
Engineer Senior
What You’ll Do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
Technical Expertise: Exhibits journey level proficiency plus advanced knowledge that enables the engineer to serve as a leader within the assigned organization. Keeps abreast of new products, developments, technologies, procedures, and equipment. Understands and analyzes interrelationships between systems and component equipment. Interprets codes and regulations and develops standards relevant to the area of assignment.
Leadership & Guidance: Provides guidance and exercises judgment and discretion in providing training, guidance and/or direction to other Engineers. Leads, facilitates, and coordinates work activities of others within the work group, team, department, corporate entity, or those external to the company as required to perform all routine engineering work. Ensures all work activities are performed in accordance with the policies, practices, standards, and rules of the company and comply with the regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Promotes engineering professionalism and standards. Coordinates and conducts training sessions.
Problem Solving & Initiative: Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to routine and/or complex problems that sometimes involve analysis of inadequate or conflicting data. Demonstrates the ability to divide problems into component steps. Consistently looks for and develops opportunities and presents new ideas and approaches.
Communication: Coordinates the work of other engineers in an efficient and effective manner. Develop reviews or prepares reports on complex technical subjects clearly, concisely, and effectively, in a manner suitable for presentation to management, professional societies, regulatory bodies, etc. Leads and facilitates meetings effectively.
Interpersonal Skills: Possess collaborative and consensus building skills. Functions as a team leader and member. Networks upward and downward in several disciplines inside and outside the AEP system. Leverage network to get things done.
Decision Making: Makes decisions affecting plans and goals based on analysis of uncertain input and outcomes. Use diverse approaches to make decisions in the absence of a definite framework or where few precedents exist. Can handle conflicting interests related to approaches on projects or studies. Analyzes options and risks and possesses the experience and knowledge to assess the risk of decisions and act accordingly. Makes decisions that affect the operations or results of the department and may have some impact on a major project.
Business Awareness & Characteristics: Exhibits an awareness of AEP's competitive position and how business decisions impact their organizational unit. Understands the specific goals and objectives of their individual organizational unit and is proficient in establishing measurable goals and objectives. Effectively manages project budgets using cost management techniques and understands how their decisions and recommendations impact AEP's expenses and revenues. Demonstrates an awareness of profit incentives, optimizing growth of customers' businesses and using our services to attract new business.
What We’re Looking For:
Minimum Requirements
- Has typically acquired four (4) or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*
OR
- Two (2) years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*
Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred.
- ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
Acceptable alternative is:
A Bachelor’s degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.
Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non ABET accredited program.
Engineer Principal
What You’ll Do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
Technical Expertise: Exhibits advanced level proficiency plus advanced knowledge of a specialized technical area that enables the engineer to serve as a resource for the company in an area such as system production, underground systems, extensive control systems, thermo-hydraulic control systems, distribution standards, fossil or nuclear plant operations, etc.
Leadership & Guidance: Influences the direction of thinking throughout the organizational unit as a recognized authority in an area of expertise. Leads, facilitates and coordinates work activities of others within work group, team, department, corporate entity, or those external to the company and assumes the role of project or function manager for assigned tasks.
Problem Solving & Initiative: Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to complex problems that require multi-functional, or organizational, interfacing and/or multi-disciplined analytical techniques. Develops opportunities and new ideas and approaches that have system-wide impact.
Communication: Leads in the preparation and presentation of complex technical subjects, clearly, concisely, and persuasively, bringing in ancillary issues before senior management, professional organizations, regulatory bodies, etc. Projects credibility and competence on technical issues and has highly developed presentation skills.
Interpersonal Skills: Builds teams and networks that extend through AEP, and other companies, professional organizations, regulatory agencies, and academia. Networks throughout AEP, other companies, professional organizations, and regulatory agencies.
Decision Making: Possesses the experience and knowledge to make some technical decisions based on calculated risks without management review. Makes decisions affecting long range plans and goals based on analysis of highly uncertain input and outcomes. Visualizes long-term results. Makes decisions where differences of opinion are likely to exist. Makes decisions that have an impact across organizational boundaries.
Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates vision in identifying business opportunities for the organizational unit. Understands how strategies and decisions impact the relationship with our customers and suppliers.
What We’re Looking For:
Minimum Requirements:
- Has typically acquired eight (8) or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*
OR
- Six (6) years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*
Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP.
- ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
Acceptable alternative is:
A Bachelor’s degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.
Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non ABET accredited program.
What You’ll Get:
Standard base pay is:
- Engineer Senior - $98,993 - $128,689 /year.
- Engineer Principal - $116,255 - $151,132.50 /year.
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-008
Compensation Range:
$98,993.00 - $151,132.50
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
Job Posting End Date
11-23-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing complex engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
Job Description
What You’ll Do:
Specific Responsibilities:
- Conduct structural engineering of complex systems, activities, and projects in a safe, effective, efficient, and economical manner in the Office and in the field.
- Duties can include engineering and design of concrete, steel, masonry, wood, sheet piling, fiber reinforced plastic, for structures and other components utilized at electric generating facilities. Have the ability to complete all aspects of a project from initiation through completion.
- Conduct reviews of engineering designs, calculations, and drawings completed by consultants submitted for projects.
- Conduct infrastructure inspections and assessments, including the completion of inspection reports, of electric generating facilities are required and can include ductwork, stacks, bridges, tanks, river cells, and other components.
Knowledge and Skills:
- Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies.
- Must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the capability to identify solutions to unusual and complex problems and situations.
- Must have strong communication skills (verbal and written) and be comfortable conducting presentations and taking part in panel discussions.
- Must be a team player and network with internal and external stakeholders, and other resources within AEP, OEMs and AEs.
- Develops reviews or prepares reports on complex technical subjects clearly, concisely and effectively, in a manner suitable for presentation to management, professional societies, regulatory bodies, etc.
- Leads and facilitates meetings effectively.
Software & Applications Experience:
- Proficiency with MS Office Tools such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Having a working knowledge Of MicroStation and/or AutoCAD is encouraged and preferred.
- Proficiency in the use of structural modeling and design software. Experience utilizing STAAD or RISA is preferred.
Work Conditions, Environment, and Requirements:
- Candidate may be asked to adjust normal work schedule as required by the assigned task or project. Availability to work some overtime is required.
- Candidate must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Travel is required, up to 20%, to support outage and plant needs. Timing may be flexible and will consist of some day trips and some overnight, up to a week, possibly more.
- When visiting a power station, the use of a hard hat, eye and hearing protection, steel-toed shoes with distinctive heel and non-slip soles are required at all times. A respirator fit test may be required for unit inspection support.
- When visiting a power station, the candidate may be required to work in an environment that consists of exposure to hot surfaces, dust, grease, hazardous fumes and chemicals, loud noises, small and large operating machinery and equipment, indoors and outdoors in extreme heat and cold, rain, ice, snow, and all other forms of weather.
Engineer Senior
What You’ll Do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
Technical Expertise: Exhibits journey level proficiency plus advanced knowledge that enables the engineer to serve as a leader within the assigned organization. Keeps abreast of new products, developments, technologies, procedures, and equipment. Understands and analyzes interrelationships between systems and component equipment. Interprets codes and regulations and develops standards relevant to the area of assignment.
Leadership & Guidance: Provides guidance and exercises judgment and discretion in providing training, guidance and/or direction to other Engineers. Leads, facilitates, and coordinates work activities of others within the work group, team, department, corporate entity, or those external to the company as required to perform all routine engineering work. Ensures all work activities are performed in accordance with the policies, practices, standards, and rules of the company and comply with the regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Promotes engineering professionalism and standards. Coordinates and conducts training sessions.
Problem Solving & Initiative: Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to routine and/or complex problems that sometimes involve analysis of inadequate or conflicting data. Demonstrates the ability to divide problems into component steps. Consistently looks for and develops opportunities and presents new ideas and approaches.
Communication: Coordinates the work of other engineers in an efficient and effective manner. Develop reviews or prepares reports on complex technical subjects clearly, concisely, and effectively, in a manner suitable for presentation to management, professional societies, regulatory bodies, etc. Leads and facilitates meetings effectively.
Interpersonal Skills: Possess collaborative and consensus building skills. Functions as a team leader and member. Networks upward and downward in several disciplines inside and outside the AEP system. Leverage network to get things done.
Decision Making: Makes decisions affecting plans and goals based on analysis of uncertain input and outcomes. Use diverse approaches to make decisions in the absence of a definite framework or where few precedents exist. Can handle conflicting interests related to approaches on projects or studies. Analyzes options and risks and possesses the experience and knowledge to assess the risk of decisions and act accordingly. Makes decisions that affect the operations or results of the department and may have some impact on a major project.
Business Awareness & Characteristics: Exhibits an awareness of AEP's competitive position and how business decisions impact their organizational unit. Understands the specific goals and objectives of their individual organizational unit and is proficient in establishing measurable goals and objectives. Effectively manages project budgets using cost management techniques and understands how their decisions and recommendations impact AEP's expenses and revenues. Demonstrates an awareness of profit incentives, optimizing growth of customers' businesses and using our services to attract new business.
What We’re Looking For:
Minimum Requirements
- Has typically acquired four (4) or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*
OR
- Two (2) years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*
Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred.
- ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
Acceptable alternative is:
A Bachelor’s degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.
Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non ABET accredited program.
Engineer Principal
What You’ll Do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
Technical Expertise: Exhibits advanced level proficiency plus advanced knowledge of a specialized technical area that enables the engineer to serve as a resource for the company in an area such as system production, underground systems, extensive control systems, thermo-hydraulic control systems, distribution standards, fossil or nuclear plant operations, etc.
Leadership & Guidance: Influences the direction of thinking throughout the organizational unit as a recognized authority in an area of expertise. Leads, facilitates and coordinates work activities of others within work group, team, department, corporate entity, or those external to the company and assumes the role of project or function manager for assigned tasks.
Problem Solving & Initiative: Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to complex problems that require multi-functional, or organizational, interfacing and/or multi-disciplined analytical techniques. Develops opportunities and new ideas and approaches that have system-wide impact.
Communication: Leads in the preparation and presentation of complex technical subjects, clearly, concisely, and persuasively, bringing in ancillary issues before senior management, professional organizations, regulatory bodies, etc. Projects credibility and competence on technical issues and has highly developed presentation skills.
Interpersonal Skills: Builds teams and networks that extend through AEP, and other companies, professional organizations, regulatory agencies, and academia. Networks throughout AEP, other companies, professional organizations, and regulatory agencies.
Decision Making: Possesses the experience and knowledge to make some technical decisions based on calculated risks without management review. Makes decisions affecting long range plans and goals based on analysis of highly uncertain input and outcomes. Visualizes long-term results. Makes decisions where differences of opinion are likely to exist. Makes decisions that have an impact across organizational boundaries.
Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates vision in identifying business opportunities for the organizational unit. Understands how strategies and decisions impact the relationship with our customers and suppliers.
What We’re Looking For:
Minimum Requirements:
- Has typically acquired eight (8) or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*
OR
- Six (6) years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*
Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP.
- ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
Acceptable alternative is:
A Bachelor’s degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.
Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non ABET accredited program.
What You’ll Get:
Standard base pay is:
- Engineer Senior - $98,993 - $128,689 /year.
- Engineer Principal - $116,255 - $151,132.50 /year.
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-008
Compensation Range:
$98,993.00 - $151,132.50
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
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Senior Level Principal Structural Engineer Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a senior level principal structural engineer job?
Employers at this level expect a portfolio of completed projects where you led structural design decisions from concept through construction. What gives candidates an edge is demonstrated ownership, not just technical contribution, so highlight projects where you set the approach, managed client relationships, and guided junior engineers. PE licensure is typically expected, and experience with complex or high-profile project types strengthens your candidacy considerably.
Which companies hire senior level principal structural engineers?
Companies hiring senior level principal structural engineers right now include GFT, Stantec, and Cannon, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Hiring at this level comes primarily from large engineering and architecture firms, infrastructure-focused consultancies, and developers managing major capital programs who need experienced engineers to own technical outcomes.
Are there remote senior level principal structural engineer jobs?
Yes, though remote availability in structural engineering is more limited than in some other fields. About 33% of senior level principal structural engineer openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with hybrid arrangements being the more common format since site visits, client meetings, and construction oversight often require periodic in-person presence.
What makes a principal structural engineer role senior level?
Senior level principal roles carry full technical and project ownership, meaning you define the structural approach, make the calls that commit the firm, and are accountable for quality across a project or a portfolio. Beyond technical depth, these roles require mentoring and developing less experienced engineers, building client relationships independently, and contributing to firm strategy, business development, or practice leadership in ways that mid-level roles do not.
Which industries hire the most senior level principal structural engineers?
Senior Level principal structural engineer roles concentrate in Consulting & Professional Services, Energy, and Staffing & Recruiting, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors drive demand because they consistently deliver complex, large-scale projects, from commercial and civic infrastructure to energy and transportation systems, that require a senior engineer with the authority and experience to own the structural outcome.