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Internship Substation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Graduate Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Spend time at job sites to gain hands-on knowledge and additional training in substation ... Prior internship and/or related work experience in the power field is preferred. Possess skills in ...

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Internship Substation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$20

$27

How much do internship substation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship substation engineer in Chicago, IL is $20.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Substation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Substation Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, power systems, and safety protocols, usually gained through ongoing or completed coursework in an accredited engineering program. Familiarity with AutoCAD, SCADA systems, and industry standards such as IEEE or NEC, as well as basic knowledge of protective relays, is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills help interns collaborate with teams and adapt quickly to project requirements. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable substation operations while supporting professional growth in the field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Internship Substation Engineer expect during their internship?

As an Internship Substation Engineer, you will typically be involved in a variety of hands-on and analytical tasks, such as assisting with substation design, performing equipment layout studies, and supporting routine maintenance inspections. Interns often collaborate closely with senior engineers and field technicians to troubleshoot issues and review technical drawings. You may also have opportunities to participate in site visits, attend project meetings, and contribute to safety assessments. This role provides valuable exposure to real-world engineering challenges and helps build a strong foundation for a future career in power systems engineering.

What does an Internship Substation Engineer do?

An Internship Substation Engineer assists in the design, development, and maintenance of electrical substations under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities typically include supporting technical drawings, performing calculations, assisting with equipment selection, and ensuring safety standards are met. Interns may also help with field inspections, project documentation, and troubleshooting substation issues. This role provides hands-on experience in the power industry and is valuable for students pursuing a career in electrical engineering.

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

AspectInternship Substation EngineerSubstation Engineer
QualificationsEnrolled in or recent graduate of electrical engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree in electrical engineering, professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, entry-level tasksFull-time professional role, responsible for design, testing, and maintenance
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with project tasks, learning industry standardsLeading projects, ensuring safety and compliance, technical decision-making

In summary, an Internship Substation Engineer is a trainee gaining practical experience, while a Substation Engineer is a fully responsible professional role with advanced duties in substation design, operation, and maintenance.

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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Internship Substation Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Internship Substation Engineer job openings:
Assistant Substation Engineer, Electrical Engineer - Transmission & Distribution (Chicago)

Assistant Substation Engineer, Electrical Engineer - Transmission & Distribution (Chicago)

Burns & McDonnell

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 77 rated construction


Job description

The Assistant Substation Engineer will work under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer to assist project staff in the preparation of design deliverables for new and modified high-voltage (13kV to 765kV) electrical power substation projects. The Assistant Substation Engineer will work with the project team through the design and construction process, adapting engineering plans according to budget constraints, design factors, or client needs.

  • Assists in the design of substation projects from the conceptual phase through completion.
  • Assists in the preparation and development of substation design packages including, but not limited to, physical arrangement above and below grade, protective relaying and control, electrical studies such as grounding and lightning analysis, and lighting and security.
  • Assists in the development of substation calculations including, but not limited to, insulation, AC station service, DC systems and battery sizing, voltage drop, cable sizing, and conduit fill.
  • Assists in the preparation of design sketches, cost estimates, equipment specifications, bill of materials, and other required deliverables.
  • Applies basic knowledge of IEEE, NESC, and other industry and utility standards, guides, specifications and procedures.
  • Assists with field inspections for substation facilities on public and private utility systems.
  • Assists with research and compile project-related data as required by the project managers.
  • Assists with client presentations, reports, and visualizations to demonstrate technical results and project status.
  • Identifies, communicates and assists in resolving issues on projects as needed.
  • Adheres to established project schedule to meet deadlines.
  • Works closely with the project team to ensure deliverables and services are being provided to client's satisfaction and that projects are following internal QA/QC guidelines.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • Bachelor Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program required or,
  • Bachelor Degree in related Engineering Technology from an ABET accredited program and successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam required
  • Prior internship and/or related consulting experience Preferred
  • Basic knowledge in standard engineering techniques, principles and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite)
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Desire to work in a collaborative team environment.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills.
  • Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
  • Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.
  • Engineers in Training (EIT) Certification preferred.

EEO/Disabled/Veterans 


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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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