Designer Principal

Job Posting End Date

09-08-2025

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

The Designer Principal will support gas, coal, and renewable plant retrofit projects, as well as new generation self-build projects. This position requires defining and overseeing the execution of work to meet design basis expectations. This work will be conducted in collaboration with Architect & Engineering (AE) or Engineer, Procure and Construct (EPC) firms.
The Designer Principal will utilize equipment, system and EPC specifications, maintained by the Engineering Services team, to support our retrofit project / self-build proposal process and oversight of execution. Additionally, the designer will ensure compliance with Engineering Services design standards and assist in overseeing the construction phases of projects to ensure successful implementation.

Job Description

What You'll Do:

• Optimize Constructability, Operability, Maintainability, and Safety (COMS) in design through detailed drawing reviews and 3D model reviews.
• Engage and ensure comprehensive stakeholder review of major design packages for mechanical, civil, structural, and electrical systems in collaboration with AE and EPC firm support.
• Utilize technical and EPC specifications to support the creation of new generation self-build proposals.
• Create and review design drawings, schematics, and documentation for major retrofit and new build projects.
• Ensure compliance with Engineering Services design standards and industry best practices across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate designs within overall project requirements.
• Support the construction phase by providing design clarifications and updates as needed.
• Support accurate creation and revision of all project documentation including specifications, studies, engineering drawings (including as-builts), descriptive articles, system descriptions, etc
• Support, promote and engage in a systemic approach to document management across the project portfolio
• Engage with internal stakeholders and OEMs to align design requirements and expectations.

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Design, Engineering Technology, Engineering or a related field plus 6 years of direct experience and intermediate level knowledge of the specialized programs/ systems/ equipment is typically required for this particular role OR
• Associate's degree in Design, Engineering Technology, Engineering or a related field plus 8 years of direct experience and intermediate level knowledge of the specialized programs/ systems/ equipment is typically required for this particular role
• Extensive experience in design roles, particularly in the power generation sector.
• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar tools, and 3D modeling software.
• Strong understanding of mechanical, civil, structural, and electrical systems
• Familiarity with technical specifications and EPC processes.
• Experience in developing and reviewing design documentation and drawings.

Other Must Haves:

• Ability to interpret and create technical drawings and schematics across various engineering disciplines.
• Strong attention to detail and design accuracy.
• Effective communication skills for collaboration with engineering teams and stakeholders.
• Problem-solving skills to address design challenges and ensure project success.
• Familiarity with safety and regulatory compliance in design.

Working Conditions:

• Approximately 25% travel, including day trips and overnight stays (up to a week or more).
• Work in both indoor and outdoor environments with exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, fumes, and operating machinery.
• Mandatory safety gear required at generating stations: hard hat, eye/hearing protection, steel-toed shoes with heels and non-slip soles.
• Adherence to site-specific safety requirements is mandatory.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with gas, coal, and renewable energy projects.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and emerging technologies in design.
• Certification in design software or professional design organizations is a plus.

What You'll Make:

• $85,081 - $106,353

In addition to a 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!

American Electric Power (On-Site)

$85K- $106K / Year  

#LI-Onsite

#AEPCareers

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-007

Compensation Range:

$85,081.00-106,352.50 USD

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.