Electrical Engineer – Generation at PacifiCorp: A Comprehensive Career Opportunity in Salt Lake City
Power generation engineering plays a critical role in delivering reliable, sustainable electricity across the western United States. PacifiCorp, a major utility provider, is actively hiring Electrical Engineers for its Generation team in Salt Lake City, Utah. This 100% onsite position offers hands-on technical leadership across a diverse fleet of thermal and other generation assets.
Whether you're an early-career engineer looking to move beyond classroom theory or a seasoned professional ready for senior responsibilities, this role provides meaningful impact, professional development, and competitive compensation.
Why Join PacifiCorp’s Generation Engineering Team?
PacifiCorp’s Generation department maintains and improves critical power production infrastructure. Engineers in this group tackle real-world challenges including system troubleshooting, equipment upgrades, regulatory compliance, and reliability improvements.
The position stands out because it combines technical depth with cross-functional collaboration. You’ll work directly with operations teams, senior leadership, and external partners while contributing to projects that support clean energy goals and grid stability.
Key aspects include:
- Exposure to a wide variety of electrical equipment in operational power plants
- Mentorship and training opportunities for less experienced team members
- Clear pathways for advancement across Engineer, Engineer II, Senior Engineer, and Senior Engineer II levels
Core Responsibilities
Engineers in this role handle the full lifecycle of electrical systems in generation facilities:
- Analyze, design, program, and modify electrical systems
- Conduct technical studies, equipment performance testing, and cost estimation
- Oversee installation, inspection, and commissioning of new equipment
- Perform site visits and ensure compliance with engineering standards
- Provide rotational 24/7 protective relay support (approximately one week every five weeks)
- Travel 10-20% for project and operational support
Critical Equipment and Technical Focus Areas:
- Generator Step-Up, Startup, and Auxiliary Transformers
- Medium and low voltage breakers and Motor Control Centers (MCCs)
- Generator Excitation Systems
- Large medium voltage induction motors
- Large utility synchronous generators
- Cathodic Protection systems
- Battery Banks and Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
- Arc Flash Studies (using SKM software)
- Protective Relays (Schweitzer, Beckwith, GE, Basler, and similar)
Career Level Expectations
Engineer / Engineer II Suitable for candidates with 0–4 years of experience. Focus on executing tasks, learning systems, and delivering under guidance.
Senior Engineer Requires 5+ years in industrial or utility power systems. Involves leading studies, mentoring juniors, managing project elements, and recommending solutions.
Senior Engineer II Typically 6+ years with demonstrated leadership. Acts as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME), oversees complex projects, and supports regulatory compliance with FERC, NERC, and WECC standards. A Professional Engineer (PE) license is preferred.
Qualifications and Preferences
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university
- Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Proficiency with engineering software and PC tools
Experience Requirements by Level:
- Engineer II: 2+ years directly related experience
- Senior Engineer: 5+ years in industrial/utility power systems
- Senior Engineer II: 6+ years with project leadership and regulatory knowledge
Valued Preferences:
- Knowledge of power electronics or electrical machine theory
- Background in electrical trades (Electrician, Instrumentation & Controls Technician)
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Familiarity with National Electrical Code and relevant regulations
Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range: $88,000 – $150,800 per year (varies by level, experience, and qualifications). Location: Salt Lake City, UT 84116 (100% onsite)
PacifiCorp provides a robust benefits package designed to support employee well-being:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match and contributions
- Life insurance, voluntary benefits, and pet insurance
- Tuition assistance and professional development support
- Generous PTO, parental leave, bereavement leave, and disability coverage
- Employee Assistance Program
- Mass Transit Pass for the Salt Lake City area
What to Expect Day-to-Day
This role balances office-based analysis and design with field work. Expect occasional overnight travel and a rotating on-call schedule for protective relay support. The work environment emphasizes safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement in a utility that prioritizes environmental responsibility and service excellence.
Tips for Applicants
- Tailor Your Resume : Highlight any experience with generators, transformers, protective relays, arc flash studies, or utility-scale electrical systems.
- Prepare for Technical Discussions : Be ready to discuss specific projects involving power equipment, troubleshooting, or compliance.
- Demonstrate Soft Skills : Emphasize examples of cross-functional collaboration and clear communication.
- Research PacifiCorp : Understand the company’s generation fleet and commitment to sustainable energy.
- Consider Relocation : This is a fully onsite role in Salt Lake City.
Application Note: All offers are contingent on successful background check and drug screening. PacifiCorp is an equal opportunity employer.
Is This Role Right for You?
This position suits electrical engineers who enjoy variety, practical problem-solving, and contributing to essential energy infrastructure. It offers strong compensation, excellent benefits, and opportunities to build specialized expertise in a stable industry.
