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Associate Substation Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Mesa Associates Inc.

Substation P&C Engineer

Knoxville, TN

$87K - $111K/yr

Don't delay, plug in today for an inclusive meaningful career in power, distribution, transmission, engineering, design, technology, or innovation at Mesa Associates, Inc. Mesa seeks a Substation P&C ...

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Associate Substation Engineer information

What is an associate substation engineer?

Associate Substation Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, development, and maintenance of electric substations. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure substation projects meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical drawings, conducting site visits, and supporting project management activities. This role serves as a foundation for gaining experience in power systems engineering and advancing to more senior engineering positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate substation engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Substation Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field, along with a solid understanding of power systems and electrical design principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and power system analysis tools, as well as knowledge of relevant codes and standards (e.g., IEEE, NESC), is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with project teams and solve complex engineering problems. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient design and operation of electrical substations.

What are the main challenges an associate substation engineer might face during the first year on the job?

In your first year as an Associate Substation Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to complex electrical design software, understanding industry standards, and learning site-specific protocols. You'll also need to balance multiple projects with tight deadlines, while collaborating closely with senior engineers, drafters, and construction teams. Building a strong foundation in safety practices and quickly adapting to fast-paced, multidisciplinary teamwork will help you overcome these challenges and set you up for future growth.

What is the difference between Associate Substation Engineer vs Substation Engineer?

AspectAssociate Substation EngineerSubstation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering; some certifications preferredBachelor's degree in electrical engineering; professional engineer (PE) license often required
Work EnvironmentAssists in design, planning, and project support under supervisionLeads design, project management, and client interactions
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level or supporting roles in utility companies and engineering firmsMid-level to senior roles in utilities, consulting firms, and construction companies

In summary, an Associate Substation Engineer typically supports and assists in substation projects, often requiring less experience and acting under supervision. A Substation Engineer usually has more experience, takes on leadership roles, and manages projects independently. Both roles are essential in the electrical substation industry but differ mainly in responsibility level and experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Substation Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Associate Substation Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Associate Substation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Substation Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Physical (Outdoor) Substation Engineering Specialist

Knoxville, TN • Hybrid

Mesa Associates, Inc.
Engineering Professional Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Mesa Associates, Inc.external

$87K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

PDS 5 / Power Delivery Substation

Disclaimer: Be cautious and only respond to emails from our “mesainc.com” domain. We will never ask for sensitive information, such as bank account details, SSN, etc., via email. If you receive any communication asking for such information, it is not from Mesa. For any concerns, or to verify the authenticity of a message, please contact us through our official channels.

Mesa seeks a Physical (Outdoor) Substation Engineering Specialist to be responsible for the design and/or checking of deliverables associated with a high voltage substation. This person will be responsible for the design of deliverables associated with a high voltage substation. This typically includes, but is not limited to: One Line Diagrams, Substation Layouts, Foundation Plans, Conduit/Raceway Plans, Grounding Plans, Bills of Materials, and Cable Schedules. The design will be done using Autodesk products, mainly Inventor and AutoCAD. 3D substation models will be created using Inventor to produce a set of Plan Layout and Elevation Views. AutoCAD/Inventor will be used to develop all other drawings as part of the Physical Design package. The ideal candidate will be able to juggle several projects with competing timelines and deliver high quality design products on time, and detailed checking of projects designed by less experienced associates. 

Education/Experience Requirements:

  • 5+ years of relevant Electrical Substation Physical (Outdoor) Design experience
  • Experience performing scoping and estimating is desired
  • 4-year engineering degree.
  • Ability to obtain a Professional Engineering License is strongly preferred but not required

Responsibilities

  • Must be able to complete assignments within budget and schedule with a high degree of accuracy
  • Perform Physical (Outdoor) design with high degree of accuracy
  • Perform project scoping activities
  • Estimate project design efforts
  • Check and review other personnel work for accuracy and adherence to client and/or national standards 
  • Mentor junior engineers and designers 
  • Works under the direction of a Physical (Outdoor) Substation Engineering Group Lead
  • Utilize AutoCAD/Inventor based physical design standards
  • Performs technical preparation of deliverables and other project documents
  • Ensures deliverables comply with IEEE and/or client standards and meet applicable design requirements

    This opportunity is for a hybrid (home and office) arrangement located in Knoxville, TN.

    Notice to External Search Firms: Mesa Associates, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Mesa Associates, Inc. Talent Acquisition engages with approved search firms directly for specific hiring needs.