Senior Power Systems Engineer Jobs in Colorado
Senior Power Systems Engineer jobs in Colorado are in strong demand, concentrated in the state's robust energy, defense, and utilities sectors, with openings at every senior level from lead engineer to principal. The largest hiring activity is in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder, where employers such as Xcel Energy, Raytheon, and Lockheed Martin maintain deep engineering workforces. The most sought-after specializations include renewable energy integration, grid modernization, and high-voltage transmission system design. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 28+ Senior Power Systems Engineer jobs
Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) is a leading energy provider and Fortune 500 company, dedicated to serving millions of electricity and natural gas customers across eight states: Minnesota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico and Texas. We make energy work better for our customers, helping them thrive every day. That means always raising the bar - delivering better service and providing more reliable, resilient, and sustainable energy.
Xcel Energy is a place where you’ll have opportunities to grow, expand your skills, and help lead the clean energy transition. We offer meaningful rewards, recognition, and support to help you build your career and make an impact - both on the job and beyond. Most importantly, it means you’ll be joining a company that knows employees are the driving force behind its success and is committed to helping you be your best.
Xcel Energy supports a hybrid work model to enable collaboration and flexibility. Many roles are expected to work onsite three days per week (Tuesday–Thursday); however, work location expectations vary based on role, team, and business needs.
Integrated System Planning (ISP) Organization: Xcel Energy's dedicated Integrated System Planning (ISP) department coordinates planning across all aspects of its utility operations — generation, transmission, distribution, and natural gas — in preparation for a carbon‑neutral future. Within ISP, the modeling team supports long term, cross functional planning with technical power systems modeling expertise.
Power Systems Modeling Engineer - Distribution (Staff or Senior) Role Overview:
Model Maintenance
Maintain up-to-date power flow models as data and conditions change
Work with model consumers to develop modeling standards that meet requirements for interconnection and planning studies and ensure consistent and repeatable modeling practices
Stay current on industry best practices, emerging technologies, and advanced modeling techniques to continuously enhance analytical capabilities and planning outcomes
Model Validation & Data Quality
Ensure accurate models through a standard model validation process
Work to resolve data quality issues in upstream source data systems
Work with ISP's data science team to build and validate ETL workflows in Xcel’s data management platform (Databricks)
Hosting Capacity Analysis
Assess the capabilities of the distribution grid via hosting capacity analysis using EPRI DRIVE
Publish distribution system capacity maps
Incorporate stakeholder feedback to improve HCA map user experience
Grid Modernization & Regulatory Support
Support Xcel's Distribution System Plans and other regulatory filings
Support grid modernization efforts, such as beneficial electrification, non-wire alternatives, proactive grid upgrades, and dispatchable distributed generation
Work to integrate distribution planning efforts with transmission, resource, and gas planning
The job summary below and responsibilities reflect the senior engineer level role. The successfully chosen candidate will be placed at a level that is commensurate with their skills and experience as different skills and/or experience will be required at the entry, staff, or principal engineer level.
General Position Summary
Applies extensive technical expertise and has full knowledge of other related disciplines. Performs as a staff advisor and consultant in a technical specialty, a type of facility or equipment, or a program function. Carries out complex or innovative assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures. Work is expected to result in the development of new/improved techniques and procedures or new/refined equipment, materials, processes, products, and/or scientific methods. Represents the organization as the prime technical contact on contracts and projects and interacts with senior external personnel on significant technical matters often requiring coordination between organizations. Work is performed without appreciable direction and considerable latitude is exercised in determining technical objectives of assignment. Guidance relates largely to overall objectives, critical issues, new concepts and policy matters. Completed work is reviewed from a relatively long- term perspective, for desired results. May assign tasks to and direct engineers, technicians, craft personnel and administrative staff, including coordination and review of work assignments. Responsible for (and may lead) multiple projects of moderate to large size or portions of major projects.
Essential Responsibilities
Applies extensive technical expertise and has an understanding of the basic principles of other related disciplines. Fully demonstrates the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level by applying technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques to lead projects of moderate to large size, scope and complexity.
Largely self-directed work is expected to result in the development of new or improved techniques, procedures and standards. Supports the development of technical documentation (including but not limited to designs, testing, calculations, reports, standards, etc.)
Without appreciable direction exercises considerable latitude in determining ongoing technical support for project activities within areas such as Operations, Maintenance, Testing/diagnostics and Regulatory. Provides field engineering oversight and direction for activities such as support, testing, installation, inspections, commissioning etc.
Coordinates/leads multiple projects or portions of projects (including phases such as research, design, equipment selection, procurement, installation and commissioning). May lead more critical projects with oversight of a higher-level engineer or supervisor.
Represents the organization as the prime technical contact in the bid/evaluation processes including preparation of bid documents, completion of technical evaluations for proposals and providing recommendations for selection. Interacts with senior external personnel on significant technical matters often requiring coordination with internal and external organizations.
Effectively and with precision resolves difficult technical/business matters both inter-organizationally and with outside customer/vendors with all formats of communication.
May assign tasks to and/or direct engineers, technicians, craft personnel and other support staff including coordination and review of work assignments. Provides guidance and mentoring to less experienced engineers. Responsible for continuous self-development of technical skills and competencies.
Leads activities such as budgeting, estimating, forecasting, accounting, work order management, in support of engineering projects.
Entry Engineer Level (Salary Range: $70,000-$88,667)
Minimum Requirements
Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum.
0+ years relevant engineering experience Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
Preferred EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) preferred.
Staff Engineer Level (Salary Range: $81,000 -106,267)
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in engineering from ABET accredited, electrical engineering degree with specialization in power systems preferred.
2+year's relevant engineering experience. Demonstrated broad knowledge & proficiency in specialty area, knowledge of related specialties, & general knowledge of other related disciplines.
Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills & core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) strongly preferred.
Senior Engineer Level (Salary Range: $97,000-$129,267)
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in engineering from ABET accredited, electrical engineering degree with specialization in power systems preferred.
5+ years relevant engineering experience with EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) required; 7+ years relevant engineering experience without EIT/FE.
Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
Preferred PE (Professional Engineer) registration may be required depending on business need
Principal Engineer (Salary Range: $112,000-$156,600)
Minimum Requirements
Required bachelor’s degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum, electrical engineering degree preferred.
9+ years relevant engineering experience with PE (Professional Engineer) registration required; 15+ years relevant engineering experience without PE.
Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
Preferred Experience
Experience performing distribution system planning and interconnection studies
Experience with distribution modeling tools such as CYME, Synergi, OpenDSS, or similar
Proficiency in Python
Familiarity with power system data models and standards, such as the Common Information Model (CIM)
Our culture is grounded in shared values and employee commitments that guide how we work, support one another, and grow together.
Our Values
Connected, Committed, Trustworthy, Safe
Our Employee Commitments
- Work that makes a difference
- A team you can count of
- Opportunities to grow
- Rewards that help you thrive
Xcel Energy provides job applicants reasonable accommodations for disabilities throughout the application process. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete the application process, now or at any time in the future, please complete the Applicant Accommodation Request Form.
Non-Bargaining
The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $70,000.00 to $156,600.00 per year
This position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave
Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.
In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Deadline to Apply: 10/15/26
EEO is the Law (PDF) | Equal Opportunity Statement (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)
All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.
Accessibility Statement
Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com and https://jobs.xcelenergy.com accessible to any and all users. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete the application process, now or at any time in the future, please complete the Applicant Accommodation Request Form. For any other application related questions, including application follow-ups or technical issues, please use our Recruiting Assistance, Electra, for assistance. Electra can be found in the lower right-hand corner of our Xcel Energy Careers site.
Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) is a leading energy provider and Fortune 500 company, dedicated to serving millions of electricity and natural gas customers across eight states: Minnesota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico and Texas. We make energy work better for our customers, helping them thrive every day. That means always raising the bar - delivering better service and providing more reliable, resilient, and sustainable energy.
Xcel Energy is a place where you’ll have opportunities to grow, expand your skills, and help lead the clean energy transition. We offer meaningful rewards, recognition, and support to help you build your career and make an impact - both on the job and beyond. Most importantly, it means you’ll be joining a company that knows employees are the driving force behind its success and is committed to helping you be your best.
Xcel Energy supports a hybrid work model to enable collaboration and flexibility. Many roles are expected to work onsite three days per week (Tuesday–Thursday); however, work location expectations vary based on role, team, and business needs.
Integrated System Planning (ISP) Organization: Xcel Energy's dedicated Integrated System Planning (ISP) department coordinates planning across all aspects of its utility operations — generation, transmission, distribution, and natural gas — in preparation for a carbon‑neutral future. Within ISP, the modeling team supports long term, cross functional planning with technical power systems modeling expertise.
Power Systems Modeling Engineer - Distribution (Staff or Senior) Role Overview:
Model Maintenance
Maintain up-to-date power flow models as data and conditions change
Work with model consumers to develop modeling standards that meet requirements for interconnection and planning studies and ensure consistent and repeatable modeling practices
Stay current on industry best practices, emerging technologies, and advanced modeling techniques to continuously enhance analytical capabilities and planning outcomes
Model Validation & Data Quality
Ensure accurate models through a standard model validation process
Work to resolve data quality issues in upstream source data systems
Work with ISP's data science team to build and validate ETL workflows in Xcel’s data management platform (Databricks)
Hosting Capacity Analysis
Assess the capabilities of the distribution grid via hosting capacity analysis using EPRI DRIVE
Publish distribution system capacity maps
Incorporate stakeholder feedback to improve HCA map user experience
Grid Modernization & Regulatory Support
Support Xcel's Distribution System Plans and other regulatory filings
Support grid modernization efforts, such as beneficial electrification, non-wire alternatives, proactive grid upgrades, and dispatchable distributed generation
Work to integrate distribution planning efforts with transmission, resource, and gas planning
The job summary below and responsibilities reflect the senior engineer level role. The successfully chosen candidate will be placed at a level that is commensurate with their skills and experience as different skills and/or experience will be required at the entry, staff, or principal engineer level.
General Position Summary
Applies extensive technical expertise and has full knowledge of other related disciplines. Performs as a staff advisor and consultant in a technical specialty, a type of facility or equipment, or a program function. Carries out complex or innovative assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures. Work is expected to result in the development of new/improved techniques and procedures or new/refined equipment, materials, processes, products, and/or scientific methods. Represents the organization as the prime technical contact on contracts and projects and interacts with senior external personnel on significant technical matters often requiring coordination between organizations. Work is performed without appreciable direction and considerable latitude is exercised in determining technical objectives of assignment. Guidance relates largely to overall objectives, critical issues, new concepts and policy matters. Completed work is reviewed from a relatively long- term perspective, for desired results. May assign tasks to and direct engineers, technicians, craft personnel and administrative staff, including coordination and review of work assignments. Responsible for (and may lead) multiple projects of moderate to large size or portions of major projects.
Essential Responsibilities
Applies extensive technical expertise and has an understanding of the basic principles of other related disciplines. Fully demonstrates the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level by applying technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques to lead projects of moderate to large size, scope and complexity.
Largely self-directed work is expected to result in the development of new or improved techniques, procedures and standards. Supports the development of technical documentation (including but not limited to designs, testing, calculations, reports, standards, etc.)
Without appreciable direction exercises considerable latitude in determining ongoing technical support for project activities within areas such as Operations, Maintenance, Testing/diagnostics and Regulatory. Provides field engineering oversight and direction for activities such as support, testing, installation, inspections, commissioning etc.
Coordinates/leads multiple projects or portions of projects (including phases such as research, design, equipment selection, procurement, installation and commissioning). May lead more critical projects with oversight of a higher-level engineer or supervisor.
Represents the organization as the prime technical contact in the bid/evaluation processes including preparation of bid documents, completion of technical evaluations for proposals and providing recommendations for selection. Interacts with senior external personnel on significant technical matters often requiring coordination with internal and external organizations.
Effectively and with precision resolves difficult technical/business matters both inter-organizationally and with outside customer/vendors with all formats of communication.
May assign tasks to and/or direct engineers, technicians, craft personnel and other support staff including coordination and review of work assignments. Provides guidance and mentoring to less experienced engineers. Responsible for continuous self-development of technical skills and competencies.
Leads activities such as budgeting, estimating, forecasting, accounting, work order management, in support of engineering projects.
Entry Engineer Level (Salary Range: $70,000-$88,667)
Minimum Requirements
Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum.
0+ years relevant engineering experience Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
Preferred EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) preferred.
Staff Engineer Level (Salary Range: $81,000 -106,267)
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in engineering from ABET accredited, electrical engineering degree with specialization in power systems preferred.
2+year's relevant engineering experience. Demonstrated broad knowledge & proficiency in specialty area, knowledge of related specialties, & general knowledge of other related disciplines.
Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills & core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) strongly preferred.
Senior Engineer Level (Salary Range: $97,000-$129,267)
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in engineering from ABET accredited, electrical engineering degree with specialization in power systems preferred.
5+ years relevant engineering experience with EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) required; 7+ years relevant engineering experience without EIT/FE.
Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
Preferred PE (Professional Engineer) registration may be required depending on business need
Principal Engineer (Salary Range: $112,000-$156,600)
Minimum Requirements
Required bachelor’s degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum, electrical engineering degree preferred.
9+ years relevant engineering experience with PE (Professional Engineer) registration required; 15+ years relevant engineering experience without PE.
Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.
Preferred Experience
Experience performing distribution system planning and interconnection studies
Experience with distribution modeling tools such as CYME, Synergi, OpenDSS, or similar
Proficiency in Python
Familiarity with power system data models and standards, such as the Common Information Model (CIM)
Our culture is grounded in shared values and employee commitments that guide how we work, support one another, and grow together.
Our Values
Connected, Committed, Trustworthy, Safe
Our Employee Commitments
- Work that makes a difference
- A team you can count of
- Opportunities to grow
- Rewards that help you thrive
Xcel Energy provides job applicants reasonable accommodations for disabilities throughout the application process. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete the application process, now or at any time in the future, please complete the Applicant Accommodation Request Form.
Non-Bargaining
The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $70,000.00 to $156,600.00 per year
This position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave
Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.
In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Deadline to Apply: 10/15/26
EEO is the Law (PDF) | Equal Opportunity Statement (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)
All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.
Accessibility Statement
Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com and https://jobs.xcelenergy.com accessible to any and all users. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete the application process, now or at any time in the future, please complete the Applicant Accommodation Request Form. For any other application related questions, including application follow-ups or technical issues, please use our Recruiting Assistance, Electra, for assistance. Electra can be found in the lower right-hand corner of our Xcel Energy Careers site.
See All 28 Senior Power Systems Engineer Jobs in Colorado
Find roles in Colorado that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsSenior Power Systems Engineer Jobs by City in Colorado
Where Colorado roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Senior Power Systems Engineer Job Market in Colorado
A snapshot from current Colorado openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Aerospace & Defense
What Colorado Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in senior power systems engineer jobs across Colorado.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license registered with the Colorado State Board of Licensure
- Bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering or a closely related discipline
- Seven or more years of power systems design, analysis, or utility engineering experience
- Proficiency in power systems analysis software such as PSS/E, ETAP, or PowerWorld
- Demonstrated experience with transmission planning, substation design, or grid interconnection studies
- Familiarity with NERC reliability standards and applicable FERC interconnection requirements
Senior Power Systems Engineer Jobs in Colorado: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a senior power systems engineer in Colorado?
The standard path begins with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, followed by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and accumulating the required years of progressive experience before sitting for the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam. Colorado licensure is administered by the State Board of Licensure for Architects, Professional Engineers, and Professional Land Surveyors. Most employers at the senior level expect an active Colorado PE license or an out-of-state PE eligible for Colorado comity endorsement, alongside demonstrated project leadership in power systems work.
How much do senior power systems engineers make in Colorado?
Senior power systems engineers in Colorado earn a median of about $120,760 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $81,720 for the lowest 10% to over $177,310 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire senior power systems engineers in Colorado?
Colorado senior power systems engineer roles are posted by Sargent & Lundy, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, and Xcel Energy and others right now, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. Colorado's combination of investor-owned utilities, federal defense contractors, and growing renewable energy developers makes it one of the more varied hiring markets in the country for this role.
Which Colorado cities have the most senior power systems engineer jobs?
Denver, Centennial, and Westminster account for the greatest concentration of senior power systems engineer openings in Colorado. Denver anchors the market through its utility headquarters and defense contractor campuses, while Colorado Springs draws significant hiring from military installations and aerospace systems firms, and Boulder's clean-energy research ecosystem supports steady demand from national laboratories and renewable energy developers.
Are there remote senior power systems engineer jobs in Colorado?
Yes, but they're relatively limited, because the role frequently requires on-site work such as substation inspections, field commissioning, and laboratory testing. About 75% of senior power systems engineer openings tied to Colorado are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, reflecting how hands-on the discipline tends to be. The portions of the role most amenable to remote work include load flow modeling, protection coordination studies, and technical report writing.
How can I get hired as a senior power systems engineer in Colorado with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry point is an associate or junior power systems engineer role at a Colorado utility or consulting firm, where structured mentorship and project exposure build the experience base required for senior positions. Xcel Energy and Black & Veatch, both active in Colorado, periodically offer new-graduate engineering programs that rotate candidates through transmission, distribution, and substation teams. Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam early and building proficiency in ETAP or PSS/E signals technical readiness to Colorado hiring managers, even before PE licensure is complete.
Where can I find and apply to senior power systems engineer jobs in Colorado?
You can find and apply to senior power systems engineer jobs in Colorado on Migrate Mate, which lists current Colorado openings for this role. Search the listings to identify positions that fit your experience level and specialization, then apply directly to the ones that match.
See All 28 Senior Power Systems Engineer Jobs in Colorado
Find roles in Colorado that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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