Substation Design Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Title: Substation Foreman
Department: T&D/C
Location: Ankeny, IA

Supervisor: Substation Superintendent
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Status: Permanent, Full-Time
Work Status: Project Site

   SUBSTATION FOREMAN

Hanwha Qcells USA Corp (Qcells USA), headquartered in Irvine, CA, specializes in providing utility-scale modules, solar photovoltaic (PV), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) project development, along with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services for solar and BESS projects nationwide. Qcells USA delivers comprehensive turnkey solutions encompassing the entire utility-scale project lifecycle. By choosing Qcells USA for turnkey solutions, customers can reduce uncertainty and risk, leading to enhanced investment returns and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Qcells USA’s complete turnkey solutions seamlessly integrate the expertise of our Development, Module, and EPC teams, while ensuring close coordination with other vital internal groups such as Project Finance, Systems Integration, and Legal. This collaborative approach ensures that Qcells USA projects deliver exceptional value and performance. With several multi-billion-dollar investments, Qcells is pioneering the establishment of the only complete module supply chain in the U.S., including the expansion of our Georgia module manufacturing facility, which stands as the largest in the Western Hemisphere.

As an integral part of the global Qcells brand, Qcells USA benefits from a legacy of excellence in photovoltaic manufacturing. Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules. With dual headquarters in Seoul, South Korea (Global Executive HQ) and Thalheim, Germany (Technology & Innovation HQ), Qcells operates under the umbrella of Hanwha Group, a FORTUNE Global 500 company and one of the top 8 business conglomerates in South Korea.

SUMMARY

The Substation Foreman is responsible for the installation, testing, repair, and maintenance of high voltage substation components, including wiring, equipment, control systems, and relays. This role involves working with energized lines, structures, and equipment within and around electrical substations, all while strictly adhering to safety standards, codes, and regulations.

In this position, you will perform complex tasks in a team environment, often in varied outdoor conditions, with significant travel required (up to 95%). While also serving in a leadership capacity, the Foreman is a hands-on, working position. You will be directly involved in completing construction tasks and performing physical work alongside your team. Oversee the installation and maintenance of high voltage equipment, including reading and interpreting schematic diagrams, installing transformers and switches, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Additionally, the Foreman is expected to operate heavy equipment, assist with site preparation for construction, and provide leadership and mentorship to junior team members.

This position reports to the Substation Superintendent, or another management personnel that the CEO may designate. This position requires full-time on-site presence and 100% travel. Any remote work arrangements must receive prior approval from your direct supervisor or company leadership. Working hours shall be determined based on project requirements and business needs, in consultation with the employee's supervisor.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safety Compliance and Program Participation:
  • Ensure compliance with all safety policies and procedures as outlined by OSHA, company safety programs, and other relevant regulatory bodies.
  • Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and daily pre-job briefings to communicate and reinforce safety expectations.
  • Conduct safety audits and hazard assessments on job sites, implementing corrective actions when necessary.

• Field Operations & Supervision:
  • Supervise construction efforts to ensure compliance with design, budget, and schedule.
  • Provide hands-on leadership, overseeing and assisting with field operations, ensuring tasks are completed safely and efficiently.
  • Troubleshoot complex issues in the field and provide on-the-spot solutions as necessary.

• Installation and Maintenance:
  • Perform the installation and maintenance of HV and LV equipment within substations. Examples:
    • Breakers
    • Switches
    • Bus
    • Transformers
    • Cap Banks

• Machinery Operation and Site Preparation:
  • Operate Lulls, skid steers, Ditch Witch machines, excavators, and lifts for site preparation, material handling, and excavation.
  • Assist with site preparation, ensuring proper staging and placement of materials and equipment.
  • Oversee the mobilization and demobilization of equipment at job sites, ensuring all tools and materials are prepared for use.

• Team Leadership and Mentorship:
  • Provide on-the-job training and mentorship to helpers, laborers, and apprentice substation technicians.
  • Lead by example, fostering a positive work environment and promoting teamwork, safety, and quality of work.
  • Conduct performance reviews and provide feedback to team members to improve performance and skills.

• Job Site Management and Communication:
  • Maintain constant communication with the Substation Superintendent, project managers, and other team members regarding the status of the job site, safety concerns, and project progress.
  • Ensure all work is documented, including daily logs, work orders, and incident reports.
  • Coordinate with other departments, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure the smooth operation of the project.

REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• In-depth knowledge of high-voltage electrical systems and substation equipment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to direct and motivate crews.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and other technical documents.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting heavy objects, climbing, and working in challenging environments.
• Exceptional troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve electrical issues quickly and safely.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact with team members, supervisors, and clients.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of construction experience with at 1 year of leadership experience preferred
• Must understand electrical terms used in substations
• Valid Journeyman certification or equivalent experience in electrical construction.
• Must possess all required tools for the role.
• High school diploma, GED, or Line school certificate required.
• Valid driver’s license and Class A or B CDL, or the ability to obtain one.
• OSHA-approved certification preferred (e.g., NCCCO or CIC Certification for crane operations).

EXAMPLES OF PHYSICAL DEMANDS  

• Able to climb and maintain balance on ladders, scaffolding, stairways, etc.  

• Stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or work at elevated heights as well as in confined spaces (towers, vessels, excavations, etc.) 

• Able to walk or move continuously while carrying 50 lbs. of tools and/or materials. It is recommended to get assistance to lift items over 50 lbs. Check with your project supervisor or project safety director. 

• Must be able to stand or walk for long periods of time 

• Must be able to work extended hours on your feet on uneven surfaces (dirt, concrete, asphalt, mud, gravel, etc.) Full range of motion and flexibility consistent with requirements of the job duties. 

• Requires repetitive movement 

LOCATION  

• Industrial construction sites and/or fabrication shop  

EXAMPLES OF MOBILITY BARRIERS ACCESS TO JOB SITE 

• Uneven ground level  

• Obstructed pathways  

• Work performed at low and/or high elevations  

• Work performed in confined areas  

CLIMATIC/ENVIRONMENT CONDITIONS AT JOB SITE 

• Predominately outdoor climate  

• May be exposed to extreme hot or cold weather  

• Excessive humidity, rain, etc.  

• Various noise levels caused by tools, machinery, equipment, etc.  

• Potential exposure to chemical substances 

• Work performed around hazardous equipment. 

Hanwha Qcells is proud to be an at-will Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status and any other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law.  This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.   

It is important to note that the job descriptions provided by Qcells USA Corp are not intended to be comprehensive lists of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the positions. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice, reflecting our dynamic and evolving work environment.  

We are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals.  As part of this commitment, Hanwha Qcells will provide reasonable accommodations to all qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.  Please contact us to request accommodations at hr-usa@qcells.com.   

Nothing in this statement shall imply implicitly or explicitly a guarantee of employment outside our at-will employment opportunity.