A method for initializing a generator (14) may include sending a field reference voltage to an exciter (22) that may provide a direct current (DC) current and a DC voltage to a rotor of a generator (14) based on a current set point that corresponds to the field reference voltage. The method may then include receiving a voltage feedback signal output by the generator (14), determining one or more locations of one or more poles of the generator (14) based on the voltage feedback signal, and sending one or more firing signals to one or more switches of a starter after determining the locations of the poles, such that the switches couple the voltage to a stator of the generator (14).