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Physical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Substation Physical Engineer

Woodstock, GA · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

Overview Kimley-Horn's Woodstock, GA office is seeking a Substation Physical Engineer with 3+ years of experience to join their Power Delivery team! This is an on-site position. Responsibilities

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 ...

Substation Physical Engineer

Woodstock, GA · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

Kimley-Horn's Woodstock, GA office is seeking a Substation Physical Engineer with 3+ years of experience to join their Power Delivery team! This is an on-site position. * Perform conceptual and ...

Senior Substation Physical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$94K - $119K/yr

As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at voltages from 12kV up to 500kV. This is an exciting and growing field in ...

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$106K - $135K/yr

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE Location: Remote US Ready to make a difference? ICF is seeking an experienced Substation Physical Engineer to lead the design and execution of high-voltage ...

Lead Substation Physical Engineer

Walled Lake, MI · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

As an Career Substation Physical Engineer, candidates will have the opportunity to work on projects for electric utilities at voltages from 12kV up to 500kV. This is an exciting and growing field in ...

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE

Miami, FL · On-site +1

$94K - $120K/yr

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE Location: Remote US Ready to make a difference? ICF is seeking a Substation Physical Engineer, to work primarily on the design of projects on distribution ...

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE

Riverside, CA · Remote

$102K - $130K/yr

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE Location: Remote US Ready to make a difference? ICF is seeking an experienced Substation Physical Engineer to lead the design and execution of high-voltage ...

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Physical Engineer information

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 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.

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 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.
More about Physical Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Physical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.
Substation Physical Engineer

Substation Physical Engineer

Kimley-Horn

Woodstock, GA • On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 375 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn's Woodstock, GA office is seeking a Substation Physical Engineer with 3+ years of experience to join their Power Delivery team! This is an on-site position.

Responsibilities
  • Perform conceptual and detailed HV and MV Substation Physical/Electrical design for utilities/substations (including basic layout, electrical arrangement, one line, three-line drawings, plan-section, grounding, AC and DC system drawings)
  •  Perform engineering studies and calculations
  • Perform Quality Control reviews on substation physical design projects
  • Assume the role of technical lead on projects with limited guidance
  • Create and review bill of materials for substation physical projects
  • Develop and review proposals, and scopes of work for smaller substation physical projects
  • Plan and lead client meetings (or meeting sections) relating to physical design, as required
  • Provide support for continued professional development of less experienced engineers in team, including technical guidance, and recommending training needs to the group
  • Possess excellent communication skills and the ability to interact with the internal teams and clients to meet project objectives
  • Develop leadership skills in preparation for future roles on the team

#LI-MS

Qualifications
  • 3+ years of relevant engineering experience in Substation Physical Design 
  • EIT License (or ability to obtain within 12 months)
  • Enjoys working in a fast-paced environment on multiple projects
  • Proficiency in using industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD
  • Experience with grounding studies/lightning protection and lighting studies
  • Experience with bus calculation
  • Experience with CDEGS
Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967