Element One Energy
Senior Power & Controls Engineer
Element One Energy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States, 80509
Overview
Element One Energy designs and builds advanced hydrogen systems and clean energy infrastructure. We are seeking a Senior Power & Controls Engineer who can own plant-level electrical distribution and industrial automation — from incoming utility power through MCCs, switchgear, and protective devices, down to PLCs, HMIs, and instrumentation. This role will start as a technical lead and grow into managing director of electrical/controls team as we scale. Responsibilities
Design and size electrical distribution systems: service entrance, switchgear, MCCs, transformers, rectifiers, protective devices. Perform load calculations, fault current studies, cable/conduit sizing, and grounding/bonding design per NEC/NFPA. Ensure compliance with NEC, NFPA 70E, UL 508A, and hazardous-area standards (C1D2, ATEX, IECEx). Develop one-line diagrams, wiring schematics, and panel layouts. Select, integrate, and program PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks (Siemens, or similar). Design & program microcontrollers for compact control applications. Specify, wire, and commission sensors, relays, instrumentation, and control panels. Design and validate safety circuits (SIL-rated, e-stops, light curtains, interlocks) for process and machine safety. Lead design reviews, vendor coordination, FAT/SAT, and startup activities. Provide troubleshooting and field support during installation and commissioning. Build and document scalable standards for electrical and controls systems. Grow into managing director and mentoring a team of engineers and technicians as the department expands. Qualifications
B.S. in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience. 8+ years in plant electrical power distribution and PLC design (not just PLC/automation). Strong knowledge of NEC, NFPA, UL, and industrial safety standards. Proven experience with power distribution equipment (transformers, rectifiers, breakers, conductors). Proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens, or similar). Proficiency in embedded programming (C/C++/Python) for microcontrollers. Hands-on field experience: wiring panels, sensors, and commissioning systems. Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical or similar CAD tools. Background in hydrogen, chemical, or power/energy systems a plus. Leadership qualities: ability to establish standards, mentor junior staff, and eventually lead a team. PE license not required, but a plus. What We Offer
Competitive compensation with performance-based bonus potential. Direct impact: contribute to advanced hydrogen and clean energy projects where your work goes into the field — not on a shelf. High-ownership role: this is a builder’s seat, where your designs, code, and decisions directly shape the foundation of our technology and company. Fast-paced environment: flexibility to put in extra effort during critical project phases such as design deadlines, factory testing, and commissioning. Growth path: opportunity to establish standards now and advance into a leadership role as we expand the electrical & controls team. Comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with 100% match up to 4%, health & dental coverage, and more. Seniority level
Mid-Senior level Employment type
Full-time Job function
Engineering and Information Technology Industries
Renewable Energy
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Element One Energy designs and builds advanced hydrogen systems and clean energy infrastructure. We are seeking a Senior Power & Controls Engineer who can own plant-level electrical distribution and industrial automation — from incoming utility power through MCCs, switchgear, and protective devices, down to PLCs, HMIs, and instrumentation. This role will start as a technical lead and grow into managing director of electrical/controls team as we scale. Responsibilities
Design and size electrical distribution systems: service entrance, switchgear, MCCs, transformers, rectifiers, protective devices. Perform load calculations, fault current studies, cable/conduit sizing, and grounding/bonding design per NEC/NFPA. Ensure compliance with NEC, NFPA 70E, UL 508A, and hazardous-area standards (C1D2, ATEX, IECEx). Develop one-line diagrams, wiring schematics, and panel layouts. Select, integrate, and program PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks (Siemens, or similar). Design & program microcontrollers for compact control applications. Specify, wire, and commission sensors, relays, instrumentation, and control panels. Design and validate safety circuits (SIL-rated, e-stops, light curtains, interlocks) for process and machine safety. Lead design reviews, vendor coordination, FAT/SAT, and startup activities. Provide troubleshooting and field support during installation and commissioning. Build and document scalable standards for electrical and controls systems. Grow into managing director and mentoring a team of engineers and technicians as the department expands. Qualifications
B.S. in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience. 8+ years in plant electrical power distribution and PLC design (not just PLC/automation). Strong knowledge of NEC, NFPA, UL, and industrial safety standards. Proven experience with power distribution equipment (transformers, rectifiers, breakers, conductors). Proficiency in PLC programming (Siemens, or similar). Proficiency in embedded programming (C/C++/Python) for microcontrollers. Hands-on field experience: wiring panels, sensors, and commissioning systems. Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical or similar CAD tools. Background in hydrogen, chemical, or power/energy systems a plus. Leadership qualities: ability to establish standards, mentor junior staff, and eventually lead a team. PE license not required, but a plus. What We Offer
Competitive compensation with performance-based bonus potential. Direct impact: contribute to advanced hydrogen and clean energy projects where your work goes into the field — not on a shelf. High-ownership role: this is a builder’s seat, where your designs, code, and decisions directly shape the foundation of our technology and company. Fast-paced environment: flexibility to put in extra effort during critical project phases such as design deadlines, factory testing, and commissioning. Growth path: opportunity to establish standards now and advance into a leadership role as we expand the electrical & controls team. Comprehensive benefits package including 401(k) with 100% match up to 4%, health & dental coverage, and more. Seniority level
Mid-Senior level Employment type
Full-time Job function
Engineering and Information Technology Industries
Renewable Energy
#J-18808-Ljbffr