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Senior Substation Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

QTS Realty Trust, Inc.

Senior Substation Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$100K - $128K/yr

The Senior Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center ...

Sargent & Lundy

Lead Substation Engineer 2 - Grid

Elkridge, MD · Hybrid

$101K - $133K/yr

As a Lead Substation Engineer, you will: * Work on a wide range of substation modifications and ... Guide junior and senior-level engineers and designers in protection and controls engineering design ...

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Senior Substation Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$67.4K

$143.3K

$207.8K

How much do senior substation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior substation engineer in Washington is $143,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by senior substation engineers during large infrastructure projects?

Senior Substation Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring compliance with evolving safety and regulatory standards. They must also address unexpected site conditions, integrate new technologies with legacy systems, and maintain clear communication across stakeholders. Proactive problem-solving and strong organizational skills are essential to navigate these complexities and deliver successful projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior substation engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Substation Engineer, you need a deep understanding of electrical engineering principles, strong experience in substation design, and a relevant engineering degree—often complemented by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and power system analysis tools like ETAP or SKM is typically required. Excellent project management, leadership, and communication skills help you coordinate complex projects and mentor junior engineers. These skills ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient design and operation of substations that are critical to power distribution networks.

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

AspectSenior Substation EngineerSubstation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering, PE license often preferred, relevant certificationsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering, some roles may require or prefer PE license
Work EnvironmentDesign, project management, oversight of substation projects, leadership rolesDesign, construction, testing, and maintenance of substations, more hands-on work
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, power generation, transmission companies, often in senior or lead rolesUtilities, construction firms, engineering consultancies, entry to mid-level positions

The main difference between a Senior Substation Engineer and a Substation Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Substation Engineers typically have more experience, hold leadership roles, and oversee complex projects, while Substation Engineers focus on technical design and implementation tasks. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the senior position involves greater project management and decision-making responsibilities.

What is a senior substation engineer?

Senior Substation Engineers are experienced electrical engineers who specialize in the design, maintenance, and operation of electrical substations. They oversee projects involving the installation and upgrading of substation equipment, ensure systems meet safety and regulatory standards, and often lead teams of engineers and technicians. Their expertise helps ensure the reliable transmission and distribution of electricity in power grids. Senior Substation Engineers also troubleshoot complex issues and play a key role in planning for future energy needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Substation Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Substation Engineer jobs in Washington? For Senior Substation Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Substation Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Substation Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Senior Substation Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Senior Substation Engineer job openings:
Senior Substation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Substation Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,338 per year, or $68.9 per hour.

Senior Substation Engineer

QTS Realty Trust, Inc.

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$100K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Senior Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center substation and utility build projects. This role will interface and collaborate with many critical stakeholders, including but not limited to: energy leaders responsible for utility contracts and negotiations; utility engagement developing relationships with utilities; pre-development leads evaluating new properties; operations leaders managing load growth projections; and development team project leaders planning and building new data centers and substations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Other duties may be assigned.
  • Lead design life cycle of high voltage substations performed under EPC contracts, including studies, procurements, and development of construction deliverables.
  • Provide technical guidance and decisions to support development, design, and installation of high voltage substations.
  • Oversee the construction, installation, and commissioning of substation equipment and systems.
  • Identify project execution risks and develop associated mitigation plans.
  • Lead operational initiatives to improve execution success at program level.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to substation operations.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contractors to meet project timelines and budgets.
  • Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation for substation projects.
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
  • Provide technical support and training to junior engineers and field personnel.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in substation design software
  • Strong knowledge of substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 15 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS
This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benefits. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in substation design software
  • Strong knowledge of substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 15 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS
This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benefits. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.
We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or discrimination claim.
The "Know Your Rights" Poster is included here:
Know Your Rights (English)
Know Your Rights (Spanish)
The pay transparency policy is available here:
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster-Formatted
QTS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to talentacquisition@qtsdatacenters.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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