This role pays less than
82%
of similar roles. Most pay
$146,500–$212,500
— the shaded band above.
At the midpoint, this role pays about
$134k
versus about
$180k
for comparable roles.
Based on 240 similar postings.
Employer
About American Electric Power (AEP)
American Electric Power (AEP) is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, delivering electricity to customers across 11 states through an extensive transmission and distribution network. Industry: Electric Utilities
American Electric Power (AEP) currently has
23 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$110,000–$129,000
across 23 roles with salary data.
Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Principal/New Generation serves as a key technical lead supporting gas, coal, and renewable plant retrofit projects alongside new generation self-build initiatives. The role involves defining design basis expectations for instrumentation and controls systems, managing operational technology networks, and ensuring IT and OT integration meets safety and cybersecurity standards. You will collaborate with engineering firms to develop technical specifications, manage equipment procurement through RFx processes, and oversee construction implementation. Essential skills include a solid grasp of control theory including PID and model predictive control, as well as the ability to interpret P&IDs and logic diagrams. The role requires proficiency in tools like SQL, Excel, and Visual Basic while utilizing knowledge of DCS, PLC, and SCADA systems. This position solves critical infrastructure challenges by ensuring reliable control strategies for complex power generation environments.
Define and implement design basis expectations for I&C systems in collaboration with AE and EPC firms.
Manage the Operational Technology (OT) network and associated devices to ensure seamless system integration.
Implement cybersecurity best practices to protect control systems from potential threats.
Engage with original equipment manufacturers during RFx processes to ensure compliance with technical specifications.
Develop and review technical specifications, engineering designs, and scope documents for plant retrofits and new builds.
Support the construction of retrofit and new build projects to ensure successful implementation.
Manage technology evolution and address equipment obsolescence concerns.
What we're looking for
Must have engineering experience with an ABET-accredited Bachelor's degree or with an ABET-accredited Master's/PhD.
Professional Engineering (PE) license in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico is preferred.
Proven experience in instrumentation and controls engineering, specifically for power generation projects involving gas, coal, and renewable energy.
Strong understanding of OT and IT systems integration, including cybersecurity practices and network protocols like Firewalls, Ethernet, Modbus, and OPC.
Experience with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and SCADA systems.
Knowledge of control theory, including PID, adaptive, and model predictive control.
Ability to interpret and create technical documentation such as System Descriptions, SAMA logic diagrams, P&IDs, and schematics.
Experience with servers, thin clients, network equipment, and computer-based instrumentation is a plus.
Operational Technology (OT)
Information Technology (IT)
PID
Model Predictive Control
SQL
MS Access
Excel
Visual Basic
SharePoint
p;IDs
SAMA Logic Diagrams
Cybersecurity
CEMS
Renewable Energy Systems
CPM
PERT
Data Acquisition
Instrumentation
Process Control
Electrical Systems
Soldering
IPC 620
Signal Conditioning
PXI
GPIB
Serial
USB
Windows
Microsoft Office
Ohm's Law
Wheatstone Bridge
Rockwell Automation
SCADA
MES
Historian
SQL
p;IDs
Electrical Schematics
ISA-S88
PackML
NEC
ANSI
IEC
NEMA
NFPA
Operational Technology
Industrial Power Distribution