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Substation Design Intern Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Substation Design Intern information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$10

$22

$41

How much do substation design intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for substation design intern in Seattle, WA is $22.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $24.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 types of projects and responsibilities can a substation design intern expect 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 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 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.

How to become a substation design intern?

To become a substation design intern, candidates typically need to be pursuing or have recently completed a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of power systems, electrical design software, and safety standards; internships often require strong academic performance and some hands-on experience or coursework related to substation design.
Infographic showing various Substation Design Intern job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,868 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Substation Electrical Engineer (EIT)

Kimley-Horn

Everett, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Kimley-Horn's Everett, Washington (WA) office is seeking an Experienced Electrical Engineer or Analyst with 2+ years of experience to join their Power Delivery team. 


  • Design of electrical systems including solar, battery storage, electric vehicle charging and building electrical
  • Participate on project teams in an active production role
  • Participate in project meetings internally and externally with clients
  • Preparation of project specifications
  • Preparation of electrical construction cost estimates
  • Daily interaction and collaboration on cross-functional teams across multiple disciplines
  • Coordination and verification of as-built drawings
  • Perform quality work that promotes client retention
  • Responsible for the development of reports and design documents, including electrical design plans, equipment selection, solar system sizing, and power analyses.

  • 2+ years of design experience in electrical engineering specifically in substation design.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (advanced degrees are a plus)
  • Holds Engineer-In-Training (EIT), Engineer Intern (EI), or the ability to obtain within 6 months
  • Firm understanding of the National Electrical Code, other NFPA codes/standards, and energy codes
  • Understanding of the National Electrical Code, other NFPA codes/standards, and energy codes
  • Proficiency using Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (AutoCAD) 
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM – Autodesk Revit) experience is a plus
  • Power Analyses (load flow, short circuit, arc flash, device coordination) in SKM or ETAP
  • Electrical power, lighting, and fire alarm design experience
  • Superior verbal and written communication skills
  • The ability to work independently or in a team environment effectively - The ability to work in a fast-paced, challenging environment

Salary Range:

  • $96,000 - $115,000
  • Eligible for Performance Based Bonus Compensation

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

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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