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Remote Substation Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Orbital

Substation Physical Designer

Hammond, IN · On-site +1

$50K - $87K/yr

Remote (U.S. based) FLSA Classification Non-exempt Orbital Engineering is seeking a Substation Physical Designer for a REMOTE WORK role. The individual will be responsible for development of ...

GFT.

Physical Designer (Substation)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $110K/yr

GFT is searching for a Associate Physical Designer (Substation) to work in either Chicago,IL, St ... remote). Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the ...

GFT.

Physical Designer (Substation)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$77K - $100K/yr

GFT is searching for a Physical Designer (Substation) to work in either Chicago,IL, St. Louis, MO ... remote). Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the ...

System One

Substation Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$100K - $128K/yr

Hybrid/Remote Substation Electrical Engineer - Grid Mid to Senior Level | Electrical Power ... Coordinate closely with designers, engineers, and cross-discipline teams to ensure high-quality ...

System One

Substation Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$100K - $128K/yr

Hybrid/Remote Substation Electrical Engineer - Grid Mid to Senior Level | Electrical Power ... Coordinate closely with designers, engineers, and cross-discipline teams to ensure high-quality ...

ICF

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$101K - $129K/yr

Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE Location: Remote US Ready to make a difference? ICF is ... We are a relentlessly client-focused group who are re-imagining, re-designing, and re-engineering ...

GFT.

Principal Substation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$147K - $175K/yr

However for the right candidate, this would be a remote position. Joining the power team at GFT ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

GFT.

P & C Designer (Protection and Controls)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

GFT is seeking an experienced Substation P & C Designer to join our expanding Power Group. This is a remote position. Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive ...

GFT.

Senior Civil/Structural Drafter - Substation

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $100K/yr

Louis, MO , with remote consideration for qualified candidates. Joining the power team at GFT means ... Provide drafting support to civil and structural engineers and senior drafters/designers. * Develop ...

Sargent & Lundy

Lead EHV Engineer 2 - Grid

Warrenville, IL · On-site +1

$105K - $139K/yr

... remote from home. Our Grid business unit is seeking an experienced Lead EHV Substation Engineer ... designers involved in the detailed electrical design and project management of distribution and ...

Sargent & Lundy

Lead EHV Engineer 2 - Grid

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$105K - $139K/yr

... remote from home. Our Grid business unit is seeking an experienced Lead EHV Substation Engineer ... designers involved in the detailed electrical design and project management of distribution and ...

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All JobsSubstation Designer JobsRemote Substation Designer JobsRemote Substation Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Remote Substation Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.6K

$86.3K

$120.5K

How much do remote substation designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote substation designer in Chicago, IL is $86,272.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $96,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote substation designer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Remote Substation Designer, you need expertise in electrical engineering principles, substation layout design, and industry standards, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or MicroStation), GIS systems, and knowledge of NESC/IEEE standards are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective virtual communication skills set top performers apart in remote environments. These competencies ensure accurate, compliant designs and efficient collaboration with project teams, which are vital for safe and reliable power system operations.

What are some common challenges faced by remote substation designers, and how can they be addressed?

Remote Substation Designers often encounter challenges such as coordinating effectively with multidisciplinary teams across different locations and managing complex project documentation virtually. To address these, it's important to establish clear communication channels, leverage collaborative design tools, and schedule regular virtual meetings to ensure alignment. Staying organized with version control for drawings and documents also helps mitigate errors and improves project efficiency. Proactively seeking feedback and clarifying requirements with engineers and project managers further enhances workflow in a remote setting.

What is a remote substation designer?

Remote Substation Designers are engineering professionals who specialize in designing electrical substations, often working from a remote location rather than on-site. They use specialized software to create detailed plans and schematics for substations, ensuring they meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. Their work includes coordinating with engineers, utility companies, and project managers to integrate substations into larger power systems. Remote Substation Designers play a crucial role in modernizing power grids and supporting the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure.

What is the difference between Remote Substation Designer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectRemote Substation DesignerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering or related field, with some roles needing PE licensureRequires a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering; PE licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based or remote work designing substations for power utilitiesVaries from office to fieldwork, involved in designing, testing, and overseeing electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in power utility companies, substation design firms, and renewable energy projectsUsed across various sectors including power, manufacturing, and consulting firms

While both roles require a background in electrical engineering, Remote Substation Designers focus specifically on designing electrical substations, often working remotely, whereas Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various electrical systems across industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Designer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Substation Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Substation Designer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Remote Substation Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Substation Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Substation Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Remote Substation Designer jobs near you

Substation Physical Designer

Orbital

Hammond, IN • On-site, Remote

$50K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title:
Substation Physical Designer
Location:
Remote (U.S. based)
FLSA Classification
Non-exempt
Job Description:
Orbital Engineering is seeking a Substation Physical Designer for a REMOTE WORK role. The individual will be responsible for development of substation design packages for clients across the US. Primary responsibilities include creating substation physical design deliverables. Projects range in size, complexity, and voltage class from small distribution equipment upgrades to large transmission projects. Depending upon the complexity of the project, the candidate may prepare, provide guidance, or assist in preparing and developing drawing packages for electric substation projects.
Responsibilities
  • Utilizes understanding of the NEC, NESC, NEMA, ANSI, IEEE, industry standard work practices, client standards, and/or other applicable guidelines to complete engineering designs.
  • Provide technical support for clients and support regional business development initiatives as a technical resource under the direction of the Department Manager.
  • Work in a project team environment with other engineers, designers, and drafters involved in detailed design of utility substation projects.
  • Support teams of designers and drafters and assume responsibility for their success on projects.
  • Support Pre-bid walkdowns with clients, prepare, review, and approve proposals and project estimates for new client projects.
  • Develop substation drawings with input from engineers, other drawings, scope documents, with high accuracy in quality.
  • Modify or develop various substation physical design drawings.
  • Mentor team of designers.
  • Prepare new drawing packages, modify existing packages and complete as-built documents.
  • Responsible for substation design drawings and package quality review.
  • Perform quality reviews and peer checks as assigned.
  • Train, develop and mentor less-experienced design team members.
  • Perform other substation design related assignments as needed.
  • Work with Project Management team to develop project plans and provide project updates.

Other Duties
Please note that this job posting does not list all duties and responsibilities that are required of this job. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice
Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma
  • Position to be filled at an appropriate level according to candidate experience.
    • Designer I 1+ years related experience
    • Designer II 5+ years related experience
  • Drafting and detailing experience with AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
  • Proficiency with NESC, IEEE, and other relevant codes and standards.
  • Knowledge of drafting standards, techniques and procedures.
  • Proficiency with the manipulation of vector and raster drawing files in AutoCAD and MicroStation.
  • Ability to create and/or modify drawings from markups with a high level of attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively organize multiple complex assignments and competing priorities to produce accurate products on time.
  • Ability to collaborate in cross-functional work teams.
  • Experience in creating and reviewing substation design drawings.
  • Proficient with current software applications used to perform substation design work.
  • Ability to successfully work with remotely located team members.

This position requires the ability to pass a post-offer drug (including marijuana) and alcohol test in compliance with Federal regulations and is also subject to random testing as a condition of continued employment.
Location Note:
This is a remote position. Compensation is based on market data and internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's location.
Salary Range:
$50,000-$87,000 annually (based on experience, qualifications, and location)
Benefits:
A commitment to excellence and hard work will be rewarded with a competitive salary, career advancement opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Our benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; a 401(k)-retirement savings plan; and supplemental insurance options. We also provide company-paid life and AD&D insurance, company-paid short-term disability coverage, and a generous paid time off program to ensure you have the support and flexibility you need both professionally and personally.
About Orbital:Powered by People, Driven by Solutions
Since 1969, Orbital has been specializing in project development, project execution and asset management for the heavy industrial sectors and utilities. Our regional offices, hands-on mentality, and world-wide integrated teams provide an ability to leverage subject matter experts and industry best-practices wherever a project may lie geographically. Our focus steadfastly remains on finding and delivering the best solution, regardless of where that team sits across our organization. At Orbital, our power is our people.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
SUBST002381
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Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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