Overview
MSA Professional Services is looking for a Senior Project Engineer – Electrical with a passion for designing safe, efficient, and sustainable electrical systems for a variety of commercial buildings, including K-12 schools, colleges & universities, banks, offices, libraries, police and fire stations, and places of worship.
You will be the lead electrical designer on multidisciplinary teams responsible for modernizing and enhancing community infrastructure through building projects that directly serve students, educators, local governments, and the public.
This is a highly collaborative role working alongside architects, civil and other members of the design team, and construction professionals to design systems that meet client goals, building codes, and performance standards—while also shaping the future of community-centered facilities.
This position is based in my Des Moines IA office and can be hybrid or in-person.
Who we are:
For over 100 years, MSA has helped shape communities through engineering excellence. What began in 1919 with a single practitioner in Baraboo, Wisconsin, has grown into a robust firm of over 500 employee owners across the U.S.
Our purpose is simple: to make communities stronger, safer, and more sustainable. We believe in the power of relationships, trust, and doing the right thing — and we take pride in seeing our work come to life.
At MSA, we understand that great work happens when you contribute great value, and maintain a balanced life and career. That’s why we offer:
Employee Ownership = True Investment: MSA is a 100% employee-owned firm. That means when you join our team, you’re not just doing a job — you’re building your legacy and sharing in the success of the firm.
A Culture of Mentorship and Collaboration: Work alongside a talented, cross-disciplinary team that values mentorship, professional development, and team success.
A flex time program that empowers you to manage your schedule — because life doesn’t always fit inside 9 to 5
A flexible work environment, including hybrid and remote options where possible, to support your productivity and well-being
Responsibilities
What you will do:
Client & Team Engagement
- Build and maintain trusted relationships with school districts, municipal clients, architects, contractors, and internal teams.
- Serve as the technical lead for electrical systems design on projects such as new schools, renovations, community centers, libraries, public safety buildings, and municipal offices.
- Participate in client meetings to explain design intent and gather stakeholder feedback.
- Coordinate with AHJs to ensure code compliance. Coordinate with utility providers to ensure seamless project delivery.
- Mentor junior engineers and technicians, and contribute to internal knowledge-sharing initiatives such as Communities of Practice (COPs).
Design & Documentation
- Lead electrical system design from conceptual planning through construction documentation and administration.
- Design building systems including:
- Power distribution
- Interior/exterior and emergency lighting with controls
- Fire alarm systems
- Low-voltage infrastructure (security, telecom, AV as needed)
- Backup and standby power systems (where applicable)
- Perform engineering calculations, lighting and photometric modeling, load analysis, and equipment sizing.
- Prepare detailed construction drawings and specifications using Revit, , and other industry tools.
- Stamp and certify engineering documents as required for permitting and construction.
Project & Quality Oversight
- Conduct internal quality reviews and support QA/QC processes.
- Assist in preparing cost estimates, scopes of work, and technical narratives for proposals and RFQs.
- Provide support during construction including submittal review, responding to RFIs, and performing site observations.
Strategic Contribution
- Take initiative in helping the team meet organizational and financial goals.
- Identify opportunities to enhance client satisfaction, improve internal processes, and contribute to MSA’s continued growth in the civic and education markets.
Qualifications
What you bring:
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Architectural Engineering (electrical focus), or a related field.
- At least 6 years of relevant experience designing electrical systems for buildings (5 years with a Master's).
- Specific experience in K-12 schools and/or municipal building design strongly preferred.
Licensure & Certifications
- Professional Engineering (PE) license required.
- Willingness and ability to obtain additional state licensure as needed.
- LEED AP, Lighting Certified (LC), or other relevant certifications a plus.
Skills & Knowledge
- Deep knowledge of NEC, IBC, IECC, and local electrical code requirements.
- Expertise in designing systems tailored to educational and public-sector building types.
- Proficiency in Revit and electrical modeling tools such as SKM, AGi32, or Visual is preferred. Familiar with using a generator manufacturer sizing software.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and mentor junior staff in a collaborative environment.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future. We are unable to provide or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role.
Why MSA?
- Better Together: A collaborative environment that values open ideas, diversity, and authenticity. Our diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success in our employee-owned firm.
- Multi-disciplinary Opportunities: Follow your interests, explore new experiences, and apply your skills where they have the most impact.
- We've Got Your Back: Enjoy support when you need it and independence when you don't. We are 400+ strong, working as one cohesive team.
- Passion & Purpose: We're passionate about our work and proud of it! Share inspirations, "geek out," and think big with us.
- Pay & Perks: Competitive pay and unique perks that make MSA stand out.
- Communities of Practice: Our think tanks and idea generators—regular collaboration and learning opportunities.
- Work-Life Integration: Life doesn't stop when work begins. We support your professional and personal balance.
- Commitment to Learning: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and cutting-edge technology to keep you connected and creative.
- Community Engagement: Giving back through volunteering, education, STEM outreach, and event participation, backed by corporate sponsorship and donations.
The salary for this position ranges from $88,871 to $142,195 per year commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.
Best-in-Industry Benefits - Eligible employees enjoy:
- Quality Insurance Options: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
- Paid Time Off: Minimum of 17 days in the first year for full-time employees
- Paid Holidays: 8 holidays per year
- Paid Parental Leave: 2 weeks for both parents, with additional time for birth parents under MSA’s Short Term Paid Leave
- Supplemental Insurance: 100% paid life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): 100% employee-owned, with stock provided at no cost
- 401k Retirement Savings Plan: Generous employer match, immediately 100% vested
- Short Term Incentive (STIP) bonus
MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at [email protected]
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
