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Contract Substation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Contract Substation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$64.4K

$117.1K

$154K

How much do contract substation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract substation engineer in Chicago, IL is $117,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,500.00 and $129,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract substation engineer do?

A Contract Substation Engineer is responsible for designing, maintaining, and overseeing the installation of electrical substations on a project or temporary basis. Their duties often include preparing technical drawings, specifying equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and coordinating with other engineers and contractors. They may also troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical support throughout the construction and commissioning phases. This role is typically project-based, allowing engineers to work with various clients in the power and utilities sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract substation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Substation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems, and substation design, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant engineering licensure. Familiarity with AutoCAD, protection and control systems, and industry standards such as IEEE or NESC is important, as are certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for coordinating with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and efficient substation projects that meet technical and regulatory requirements.

What are common challenges faced by contract substation engineers, and how can they be managed?

Contract Substation Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adhering to strict project deadlines, and ensuring compliance with evolving safety and regulatory standards. Managing these challenges typically involves strong communication skills, meticulous documentation, and proactive project management. Additionally, contract engineers must quickly adapt to new teams and project environments, making flexibility and the ability to quickly learn site-specific protocols essential for success.

What is the difference between Contract Substation Engineer vs Contract Power Systems Engineer?

AspectContract Substation EngineerContract Power Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentSubstation construction sites, utility companiesPower plants, utility companies, consulting firms
Industry UsageDesign, construction, and commissioning of substationsDesign, analysis, and optimization of power systems
Common Search IntentProject-specific substation roles, site workPower system analysis, grid integration

Contract Substation Engineers focus on the design, construction, and commissioning of electrical substations, often working on-site at utility or construction projects. Contract Power Systems Engineers typically work on the analysis, planning, and optimization of electrical power systems across various environments. While both roles require electrical engineering credentials and industry experience, their daily tasks and project focus differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Substation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Substation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Contract Substation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Substation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Substation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Substation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Substation Engineer job openings:

Contract Substation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Substation Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 65% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,052 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

Substation Engineer

Quality Technology Services, LLC

Chicago, IL

$101K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center substation and utility build projects. This role will interface and collaborate with many critical stakeholders, including but not limited to: energy leaders responsible for utility contracts and negotiations; utility engagement developing relationships with utilities; pre-development leads evaluating new properties; operations leaders managing load growth projections; and development team project leaders planning and building new data centers and substations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Other duties may be assigned.

  • Design and develop electrical substation layouts, schematics, and wiring diagrams, focusing on standardization for scale.
  • Perform load flow, short circuit, and coordination studies for substation projects or review the ones provided under EPC contracts.
  • Oversee the construction, installation, and commissioning of substation equipment and systems.
  • Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of substation equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to substation operations.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contractors to meet project timelines and budgets.
  • Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation for substation projects.
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
  • Provide technical support and training to junior engineers and field personnel.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD, ETAP, SKM).
  • Strong knowledge of electric substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 10 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS

This role is also eligible for a competitive benets package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; exible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benets. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in electrical design software (e.g., AutoCAD, ETAP, SKM).
  • Strong knowledge of electric substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 10 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS

This role is also eligible for a competitive benets package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; exible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benets. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.

We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or discrimination claim.

The "Know Your Rights" Poster is included here:

Know Your Rights (English)

Know Your Rights (Spanish)

The pay transparency policy is available here:

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster-Formatted

QTS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to talentacquisition@qtsdatacenters.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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