Contract Transmission Line Design Engineer Jobs in Virginia

GFT is seeking a Principal  Transmission Line Engineer to join our Power Business Group! This role would report to the Charlotte, NC, Roanoke, VA, Marlton, NJ, Pittsburgh, PA, St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL or Phoenix, AZ  office but could be fully remote for the right candidate.  Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today's diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here.   What you'll be challenged to do: As a Principal Transmission Line Engineer, you will lead and oversee transmission line project designs, serving as a subject matter expert in transmission line engineering. You will navigate the complexities of electrical transmission line design while leading project discussions with clients and internal teams. Additionally, you will provide strategic input to the leadership team, ensuring alignment with project goals. In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

• Design transmission line segments using PLS-CADD or other structural design software.
• Develop design criteria documents and construction specifications.
• Prepare comprehensive construction packages, including structure details, material lists, staking tables, plan and profiles, and stringing charts.
• Estimate project costs, resources, labor, and materials, establishing realistic deadlines and completion dates.
• Write, modify, and review specifications in compliance with NESC, IEEE, NEC requirements, and industry best practices.
• Conduct feasibility studies, routing studies, and EMF calculations to support project planning.
• Oversee project implementation, ensuring proper verification of foundations, structures, and equipment installation.
• Lead or assist with proposal preparation and business development initiatives.
• Travel to client sites for project definition and execution phases.
• Mentor and coach less experienced engineers and technicians, fostering professional growth within the team.

What you will bring to our firm: 

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Structural Engineering from an accredited college or university.
• 15+ years of experience in transmission line design.
• In-depth knowledge of NESC, IEEE, and other applicable codes and standards related to transmission line design.
• High proficiency in PLS-CADD.
• Experience in electrical utility or utility consulting is strongly preferred.
• Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.

What we prefer you bring: 

• Experience with RISA-3D and/or STAAD for structural analysis and design is preferred.
• Functional understanding of AISC, ACI 318, ASCE 7, ASCE 10, ASCE 48, EIA-TIA 222, CSA, and GO95 is preferred.

Compensation:The salary range for this role is $130,000 - $175,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location. Featured Benefits: 

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives 

GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law. 

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property of GFT.

 Location: Charlotte, NC, Roanoke, VA, Marlton, NJ, Pittsburgh, PA, St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL or Phoenix, AZ office but could be fully remote for the right candidate. Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time  Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location 

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-GB1

#LI-REMOTE

CALIFORNIA APPLICANTS

Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.

Application deadline 12/20/2026

Employment Type: FULL_TIME