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National Grid Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Substation Engineer 3 - Grid

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$74.35 - $113.60/hr

This includes the National Electrical Safety Code (ANSI - C2). * PE license. * AutoCAD experience ... Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical ...

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National Grid Engineer information

What does a National Grid Engineer do?

A National Grid Engineer is responsible for designing, maintaining, and operating the infrastructure that transmits and distributes electricity or gas across a country or region. They ensure the safe and reliable delivery of energy from power stations to homes and businesses, often coordinating with other engineers, utility companies, and regulatory bodies. Their work involves system planning, monitoring grid performance, troubleshooting outages, and implementing new technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a National Grid Engineer?

To thrive as a National Grid Engineer, you typically need a degree in electrical or power engineering and a solid understanding of power systems, grid operation, and safety standards. Familiarity with SCADA systems, grid modeling software, and relevant certifications such as Chartered Engineer (CEng) status are often required. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure reliable grid performance, support critical infrastructure, and promote safe, efficient energy delivery.

What are some typical challenges faced by National Grid Engineers when managing large-scale power distribution networks?

National Grid Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining grid stability during peak demand, integrating renewable energy sources, and responding quickly to outages or system faults. They must also coordinate with various teams—including operations, maintenance, and IT—to ensure seamless communication and efficient problem-solving. Adapting to evolving technology and regulatory standards is another crucial aspect of the role, requiring continual learning and adaptability.

What is the difference between National Grid Engineer vs Substation Engineer?

AspectNational Grid EngineerSubstation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical or Power Engineering, certifications often similar
Work EnvironmentUtility company offices, field sites, power grid infrastructureSubstation facilities, field sites, electrical infrastructure
Industry UsagePower transmission, distribution, utility companiesPower substations, electrical infrastructure projects
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

National Grid Engineers and Substation Engineers both work within the electrical power industry, often requiring similar credentials and working environments. While National Grid Engineers focus on the broader power grid infrastructure, Substation Engineers specialize in designing, maintaining, and upgrading electrical substations. Both roles are essential for reliable power delivery and are frequently compared by professionals and job seekers in the energy sector.

How to become a National Grid Engineer?

To become a National Grid Engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering. Relevant experience, technical skills, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure can enhance prospects. Familiarity with power systems, safety standards, and industry tools is also important.

Is working for National Grid a good job?

A National Grid Engineer typically works in the energy infrastructure sector, focusing on maintaining and improving electrical or gas systems. The role often involves technical skills, safety protocols, and sometimes shift work, offering stable employment and opportunities for advancement. Overall, it is considered a reputable career with competitive pay and benefits in the utility industry.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for National Grid Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most National Grid Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various National Grid Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 88% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate - Grid Modeling

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16570 

Overview:

The Grid Transients & Advanced Modeling Group in the Electrification and Energy Infrastructure Division (EEID) within the Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Research Associate to perform R&D in the one or more of the following areas: development of EMT simulation software, bulk power systems electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations, high-fidelity dynamic and transient power electronics resources modeling, explore different intelligence algorithms to enhance ease of usage of simulations, and different applications of EMT simulations. Selection will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and education. You should be highly self-motivated and independent in conducting research under general guidance and are expected to prepare manuscripts for scientific publication and present the work to sponsors and at conferences.

The group supports the energy reliability and prosperity mission of the Energy Department (DOE) through transformative science and technology solutions, including research supporting the Office of Electricity (OE), Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response (CESER), and Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI) on the integration of new technologies, identifying and validating new ways of using existing and emerging grid assets to ensure grid reliability and affordability of energy supplies. The group focuses on advanced grid modeling using advanced computing resources (e.g., quantum computing), EMT simulations, and power electronics control.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Develop electromagnetic transient models for bulk power systems, synchronous generators, large loads, etc.
  • Develop simulation algorithms that enable large-scale simulations.
  • Integrate (or co-simulate) grid component/device models into open-source software tools for integrated system dynamic and transient simulations.
  • Develop different applications and use cases for EMT simulations.
  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

  • A Ph.D. in electrical engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum of two years’ experience post-Ph.D.
  • Expertise in power systems and power electronics.
  • Experience in C/C++, Matlab, and Python programming.
  • Experience in power systems software like PSCAD, PSS/e.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with software development.
  • Experience with use of DSPs, FPGAs, advanced computing (e.g., GPUs, QPUs).
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:

If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.


If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.


ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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