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Substation Design Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Substation Design Intern information

What is the difference between Substation Design Intern vs Substation Engineer?

AspectSubstation Design InternSubstation Engineer
QualificationsEnrolled in electrical engineering or related field, some internship experienceBachelor's or master's in electrical engineering, professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupportive, learning-focused, often in office or field sitesProject management, design, and oversight in office and field settings
ResponsibilitiesAssist with design tasks, data collection, and documentationLead design projects, ensure compliance, and coordinate with teams

While both roles involve electrical substation work, a Substation Design Intern is primarily a learning position supporting design tasks, whereas a Substation Engineer is a professional responsible for leading and managing substation projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Substation Design Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substation Design Intern, you need a solid grounding in electrical engineering principles, coursework related to power systems, and progress toward a relevant degree. Familiarity with AutoCAD, MicroStation, and industry standards like IEEE or NESC, along with experience using project management or modeling software, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and clear communication skills help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a technical environment. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate designs, ensuring safety, and supporting the successful delivery of substation projects.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Substation Design Intern expect to be involved with during their internship?

As a Substation Design Intern, you can expect to work on tasks such as assisting in the preparation of engineering drawings, updating design documentation, and performing calculations related to electrical systems. Interns often collaborate with engineers and CAD technicians to learn about substation layouts, protection schemes, and equipment selection. You may also participate in project meetings, site visits, and quality checks, gaining hands-on experience with industry software and standards. This role provides a supportive environment to build technical skills and understand how different teams coordinate to deliver successful substation projects.

What does a Substation Design Intern do?

A Substation Design Intern assists engineering teams in designing and developing electrical substations, which are facilities that help control and distribute electricity within the power grid. Their tasks may include preparing drawings, performing calculations, and supporting project documentation. Interns gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software, learn about electrical systems, and collaborate with engineers to ensure designs meet safety and regulatory standards. This role is an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world power engineering projects.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substation Design Intern jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substation Design Intern job openings:
Experienced Civil EIT - Renewable Energy

Experienced Civil EIT - Renewable Energy

Kimley-Horn

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 442 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
Kimley-Horn's Reston, Virginia (VA) office is seeking a Civil Engineer-in-Training (EIT) with 2+ years of experience to join their Renewable Energy team. This is not a remote position.
Responsibilities
  • As a critical member of the team, you will perform a variety of civil engineering tasks and will receive both on-the-job and formal training as well as mentorship, camaraderie, and exposure to plan production, project financials, and client interactions.

Our Renewable Energy team works on projects including:
  • Solar site Design
  • Utility scale solar projects
  • Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Sites
  • Substation Design
  • Project Due Diligence and Site Constraints
  • Jurisdictional Permitting and Agency Coordination
  • Client Management

Qualifications
  • 2+ years experience with a civil engineering design firm
  • Bachelors or Masters from an ABET accredited university in the field of Civil Engineering
  • "Engineer-In-Training" or "Engineering Intern" certification (or ability to obtain within 12 months)
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal skills
  • Strong sense of urgency and self-initiative to meet client deadlines
  • Detail-oriented with an ability to contribute to a positive work environment
  • Ability to work independently and as a team

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.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

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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