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Physical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FindTalent

Substation Physical Engineer III

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

This role provides physical engineering expertise, technical support, and project oversight for utility substation, battery energy storage, and renewable generation projects. The position combines ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

Framingham, MA · On-site

$101.30K - $129.10K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As a Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

RCS Staffing

Sr Physical Substation Engineer

Marietta, GA

$93.40K - $119K/yr

RCS Staffing has an immediate need for a Substation Physical Engineer in Marietta, GA. This is a full time, direct hire, office based position with our client. This position offers a competitive ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

San Diego, CA

$104.60K - $133.20K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

Portland, OR

$104.50K - $133.10K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

Mesa Accosiates

Substation Physical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$87.80K - $111.90K/yr

Mesa seeks a Substation Physical Engineer who will be responsible for the design, checking and oversite of deliverables associated with substation physical design projects. Assigned tasks will ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

Houston, TX

$94.10K - $119.80K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

Seven Fields, PA · Hybrid

$94.80K - $120.80K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$97.30K - $123.90K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$94.70K - $120.70K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

Leidos

Substation Physical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$104.50K - $133.10K/yr

We are looking for a Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at ...

Mesa Accosiates

Physical Engineer I

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Mesa seeks a Physical Engineer I for our Power Delivery Substation engineering design team based out of Chattanooga, TN. The successful candidate has 4-5 years of experience in Physical substation ...

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How much do physical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for physical engineer in the United States is $45.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.86 and $55.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency with simulation software (such as COMSOL Multiphysics or ANSYS), data analysis tools, and familiarity with industry-specific standards are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help physical engineers excel in collaborative and innovative environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, testing, and optimizing complex systems in fields like electronics, materials, and energy.

What are some typical challenges a Physical Engineer faces when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Physical Engineers often collaborate with professionals from various engineering disciplines, such as electrical, mechanical, and materials engineering. A common challenge is effectively communicating complex physical concepts to team members with different technical backgrounds. Additionally, balancing competing project requirements—like optimizing for both performance and manufacturability—can require creative problem-solving. Staying current with advancements in simulation tools and experimental techniques is also essential, as technology in this field evolves rapidly.

What are physical engineers?

Physical engineers are professionals who apply principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to design, analyze, and improve physical systems and materials. They work on a variety of projects, such as developing new materials, optimizing manufacturing processes, or creating devices that rely on physical properties. Physical engineers often collaborate with scientists and other engineers to solve complex technical problems in fields like electronics, energy, and aerospace.

What is the difference between Physical Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPhysical EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Physics, Engineering, or related field; often includes certifications in physical modelingBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often includes licensure or professional engineer (PE) certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, testing facilities, or industrial settings focusing on physical properties and phenomenaManufacturing plants, design offices, or construction sites focusing on machinery and systems
Industry UsageResearch institutions, aerospace, defense, and physics-based industriesAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and product design industries

Physical Engineers focus on the physical properties and behaviors of materials and systems, often working in research or specialized testing environments. Mechanical Engineers design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems and devices. While both roles require engineering fundamentals, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

More about Physical Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Physical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Physical Engineer jobs are:
Physical Engineer jobs near you
Physical Engineer

Physical Engineer

NEI Electric Power Engineering, Inc

Lakewood, CO • On-site, Remote

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Physical Engineer - Substations (Utility)
United States (Remote)
Salary Range: $80,000 - $95,000/ year
Based on the Denver, Colorado labor market.
Location: Lakewood, CO (local/in-office) or full-time remote candidates.
Role Overview:
As a Physical Engineer in the Utility Substation group, you will support engineering design and analysis for Electric Utilities across the country. You will assist in developing substation physical design packages, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and delivering high-quality engineering deliverables that meet project scope, schedule, and client requirements.
Essential Responsibilities:
What you will do:
  • Develop and support physical layout designs for transmission and distribution substations.
  • Prepare equipment arrangements, plan & section views, grounding layouts, and conduit/cable routing.
  • Support development of construction drawing packages (30%, 60%, 90%, and IFC milestones).
  • Interpret vendor drawings and integrate equipment requirements into design packages.
  • Apply applicable engineering standards including IEEE, NESC, and utility-specific standards.
  • Revise engineering drawings using tools such as AutoCAD, BlueBeam, AutoCAD Electrical, or Bentley MicroStation.
  • Coordinate with protection & controls engineers, civil engineers, designers, and project managers.
  • Perform internal design checks for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with project standards.
  • Maintain organized engineering documentation and drawing files.
  • Support constructability considerations including foundations, structures, cable trenches, and equipment installation.

Additional Responsibilities:
  • Participate in design reviews and incorporate feedback from engineers and project teams.
  • Support preparation of engineering documentation and reports.
  • Assist with resolving engineering-related design issues.
  • Maintain familiarity with applicable engineering codes and client standards.
  • Support occasional field reviews and incorporate lessons learned from construction feedback

Requirements:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree with a focus in Civil / Structural or Electrical from an accredited institution is preferred.
  • Experience: 1-4 years of relevant engineering or substation design experience.
  • Licensure: FE or PE preferred.
  • Skills: Proficiency with AutoCAD or MicroStation, BlueBeam, and Microsoft Office Suite. Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Note: Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Work Environment:
  • Hybrid or fully remote work model depending on location and project needs
  • Travel typically ranges from 15-25% and varies by project
  • Combination of office-based work and periodic field engagement

Benefits & Total Rewards:
NEI offers a comprehensive benefits and total rewards package that include medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability; a 401(k) with employer matching; paid time off; paid holidays; and paid parental leave. Benefits eligibility and details may vary by role and location and will be provided during the interview process.
We are a proud equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or genetic information. NEI Electric Power Engineering participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your completed Form I-9 to confirm your work authorization in the United States.

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