Principal Engineer

Role overview

Principal Engineer at VA Tech Wabag

Lead procurement strategy for major electrical packages or across multiple EPC projects

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end procurement for key electrical packages, including: o Electrical Equipment: Transformers, switchgear (HT/LT), MCC panels, VFDs, control panels o Cables & Accessories: Power and control cables (HT/LT), cable trays, glands, lugs, terminations o Lighting & Fixtures: Industrial lighting, floodlights, poles, emergency lighting systems o Earthing & Lightning Protection: Earthing conductors, rods, pits, surge protection devices
• Float and manage RFQs, conduct technical and commercial bid evaluations, and lead vendor negotiations
• Coordinate with engineering and site teams to align procurement with technical specifications and delivery schedules.
• Issue purchase orders (POs) ensuring compliance with project budget, quality, and contractual terms
• Liaise with vendors for technical submittals, FATs (Factory Acceptance Tests), inspections, and documentation
• Track order status, expedite deliveries, and resolve delays or quality issues and prepare report for management review , date to date update on MIS reports.
• Maintain procurement trackers, vendor databases, and comparative costing sheets
• Ensure adherence to internal procurement policies and project-specific requirements
• Develop strategic vendor relationships and manage rate contracts or long-term agreements
• Mentor junior procurement engineers and assist in team development and planning
• Drive cost optimization, value engineering, and strategic sourcing initiatives

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
• 10+ years of relevant procurement experience in an EPC environment
• Proven experience in sourcing and procurement of electrical systems, equipment, and bulk materials
• Strong understanding of IEC/IS/IEEE/NEMA standards and electrical design drawings
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
• Familiarity with Incoterms, logistics coordination, inspection, and quality protocols
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and vendor management skills

Preferred qualifications and skills

• Experience in electrical procurement for water/wastewater, infrastructure, or industrial EPC projects
• Exposure to both domestic and international suppliers
• Knowledge of packaging, handling, and shipping of sensitive electrical equipment

Employment details

• Location: Chennai