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Substation Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FirstEnergy Corp.

Substation Design Engineer

Akron, OH · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

Directing technical personnel to gather and record data for substation design projects. * Working with outside engineering firms, vendors, equipment manufacturers and consultants. * Providing ...

HDR

Project Engineer (Substation Design)

Kihei, HI · On-site

$107K - $136K/yr

Project Engineer (Substation Design) HDR Engineering is looking for a Substation Project Engineer to join our growing and nationally ranked team of Power Delivery professionals. The primary duties of ...

FirstEnergy

Substation Design Engineer

Greensburg, PA

$90K - $115K/yr

The job of Substation Design Engineer requires an individual to be self-directed with an interest and / or ability to create and manage engineering designs, equipment and standards for the Substation ...

Infra-Rec

Substation Physical Design Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$92K - $117K/yr

Physical Substation Design Engineer We are seeking a Physical Substation Design Engineer to join a top engineering firm in Pennsylvania. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in ...

FirstEnergy

Substation Design Standards Engineer

Fairmont, WV · On-site

$92K - $117K/yr

Substation Design Standards Engineer FirstEnergy at a Glance We are a forward-thinking electric utility powered by a diverse team of employees committed to making customers' lives brighter, the ...

WSP

Intermediate Substation Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$96K - $122K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for an Intermediate Substation Design Engineer for our Ann Arbor, MI office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and ...

WSP

Intermediate Substation Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for an Intermediate Substation Design Engineer for our Ann Arbor, MI office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and ...

WSP

Intermediate Substation Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for an Intermediate Substation Design Engineer for our Ann Arbor, MI office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and ...

System One

Substation Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$101K - $129K/yr

Job Title: Substation Design Engineer Location: Chicago, IL Type: Direct Hire Contractor Work Model: Hybrid/Remote Substation Electrical Engineer - Grid Mid to Senior Level | Electrical Power ...

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$54K

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$117K

How much do substation design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation design in the United States is $83,748.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is substation design?

Substation design is the process of planning and creating the layout, specifications, and systems for electrical substations, which are critical facilities in the power grid that transform voltage and distribute electricity. This involves selecting and arranging equipment like transformers, circuit breakers, busbars, and protection systems to ensure safe and reliable electricity flow. Substation designers must consider factors such as safety, regulatory standards, electrical load requirements, and future expansion when developing these plans. Effective substation design is essential for maintaining grid stability and meeting the energy demands of homes and businesses.

What are some common challenges faced by engineers working in substation design, and how can they be addressed?

Engineers in substation design often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple disciplines (like civil, electrical, and protection teams), adhering to strict regulatory and safety standards, and managing evolving project requirements. Effective communication, strong project management skills, and staying updated with the latest industry codes are essential for overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with team members and stakeholders ensures design accuracy and helps prevent costly revisions, making adaptability and proactive problem-solving key assets in this role.

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

To thrive as a Substation Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, understanding of power systems, and typically a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and knowledge of industry standards like IEEE or NESC, as well as experience with protective relays and SCADA systems, are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure safe, efficient, and accurate project delivery. These competencies are essential for creating reliable substations that support electrical grid stability and meet regulatory and safety standards.

What is the difference between Substation Design vs Substation Engineering?

AspectSubstation DesignSubstation Engineering
Primary FocusCreating detailed layouts, schematics, and specifications for substation structures and equipmentOverseeing the technical aspects, ensuring design compliance, and integrating systems
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, professional engineering license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, collaboration with project teamsDesign offices, site visits, coordination with construction teams
Industry UsageUsed during the initial design phase of substationsInvolved throughout the project, from design review to commissioning

While both roles require electrical engineering knowledge and similar credentials, Substation Design focuses on creating detailed plans and layouts, whereas Substation Engineering involves overseeing and ensuring the technical integrity of the design during implementation.

More about Substation Design jobs
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What job categories do people searching Substation Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Design jobs are:
Substation Design jobs near you
Substation Design Engineer

Substation Design Engineer

FirstEnergy Corp.

Akron, OH • On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

FirstEnergy rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 50 rated energy and utility

Job description

Job Description
FirstEnergy at a Glance
We are a forward-thinking electric utility powered by a diverse team of employees committed to making customers' lives brighter, the environment better and our communities stronger.
FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, FirstEnergy includes one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, and a regulated generating fleet with a total capacity of more than 3,500 megawatts.
About the Opportunity
This is an open position with FirstEnergy Service Co., a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp.
The job of Substation Design Engineer requires an individual to be self-directed with an interest and / or ability to create and manage engineering designs, equipment and standards for the Substation Engineering group within FirstEnergy. This position will work within a staff of engineers, survey crews, drafters / layouts, both internal and external, engaged in a wide variety of engineering design, from the request for project estimation through construction and record update. This position will report on the progress of design projects and advise of any issues that could impair the successful completion of the project on a proactive basis. This position must provide technical support to Substation and Transmission personnel, Real Estate, Project Management and Construction crews verifying that no safety standards are compromised, checking for accuracy, and monitoring expenditures to ensure projects stay within budget allocation and meet the required in-service date.
Responsibilities include:
  • Creating engineering designs and work scope for substation projects and confirming documentation and support is available to necessary personnel. Possible items including steel structures, foundations, clearances, layout drawings, grounding, oil containment, lightning protection, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
  • Ensuring designs support a safe environment for transmission lines and substations personnel, contractors and the general public.
  • Preparing bills-of-material and specifications to procure needed equipment and materials for a substation project.
  • Preparing and filing applications and supporting documentation for engineering permits when necessary. PE preferred.
  • Reviewing NESC clearance requirements and Maintenance personnel and ensure the public safety is protected.
  • Assisting Real Estate in the acquisition of Substation property by coordinating the preparation of sketches, maps, exhibits and easement plans.
  • Directing technical personnel to gather and record data for substation design projects.
  • Working with outside engineering firms, vendors, equipment manufacturers and consultants.
  • Providing engineering support to employees to assist in their learning of standards, procedures, designs, and associated issues.
  • Analyzing engineering issues, structures, equipment, etc., and recommending appropriate solutions and alternate design options.
  • Preparing estimates for proposed projects.
  • Reviewing manufacturer drawings for compliance with specifications.
  • Conducting design reviews, plant audits, and test witnessing at manufacturer's facilities as necessary.
  • Evaluating equipment ratings and requirements, and project schedules to facilitate the accurate ordering of equipment to support project in service dates.
  • Managing equipment orders for Substation projects from the initial request for equipment through delivery (technical details, bid evaluation, schedule, drawing review, design review, action items testing, and delivery).
  • Supporting communication across business units regarding project needs. Convening internal project schedule compliance review meetings with necessary parties to assure deliverables support project schedule and are within the project budget.
  • Researching and exploring new technologies that will effectively enable work processes to be automated increasing efficiencies while decreasing the risk of human error.
  • Ensuring standards and equipment specifications are up to date and accurate, reviewing against industry standards and best practices.
  • Participating in industry meetings to confirm FirstEnergy has a voice in direction of industry (i.e. IEEE, EPRI, etc.).
  • Ability to obtain Engineer in Training and Professional Engineering license is preferred. Future advancement likely linked to ability to stamp and seal engineering design drawings as a Professional Engineer, when necessary.
  • Supporting and sustaining FirstEnergy as a high performing organization by contributing to excellent organizational performance and values of FirstEnergy through responsible effective work performance.

Qualifications include:
  • Bachelors of Science degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from an ABET accredited institution is required. Acceptable alternatives are: (1) a Professional Engineer's (PE) License (2) a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology from an ABET accredited institution (3) a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or technical field of study (non-ABET) plus an advanced degree in Electrical Engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.
  • Professional Engineering (PE) License preferred.
  • Minimum of 2 (two) years of Engineering experience is required.
  • A Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Certificate Preferred.
  • Working knowledge of applicable computer software necessary to fulfill job duties including but not limited to Microsoft Office and AutoCAD. Knowledge of FileNet, SAP, and Cascade a plus but not a requirement.
  • Valid driver's license and have access to reliable transportation.
  • Must embrace a safety culture and maintain a safe work environment for co-workers and the public.
  • Must be able to manage "multiple projects simultaneously" and be able to work effectively under the pressure of deadlines, unexpected developments, changes in project scope, budget constraints, unforeseen field problems and demands on time for work assignments outside of the normal duties.
  • Must have strong interpersonal skills and develop and maintain relationships across FE, with outside firms and manufacturers that further facilitate the cooperation needed to complete assigned tasks and that will inspire others to achieve, or exceed, goals.
  • Must be able to work independently as well as in teams to coordinate designs with other FirstEnergy areas of responsibility including Siting and Permitting, Project Management, Maintenance, Forestry, Real Estate and Construction, as well as the Regional operating companies
  • Ability to make practical decisions without undue delay and based on the best information available at the time that the decision must be made.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively with good verbal skills and writing skills, providing comprehensive project status reports, clear and concise correspondence, and accurate information.
  • Must possess strong organizational, computer, and problem-solving skills.
  • Must be self-directed and not dependent on detailed instruction from others.
  • Ability to support numerous locations, must be willing to travel throughout the service area and to manufacturer locations, and to work extra and irregular hours.

Benefits, Compensation & Workforce Diversity
At FirstEnergy, employees are key to our success. We depend on their talents to meet the challenges of our changing business environment. We are committed to rewarding individual and team efforts through our total rewards philosophy which includes competitive pay plus incentive compensation, a company-sponsored pension plan, 401(k) savings plan with matching employer contribution, a choice of medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, and life insurance programs, as well as skills development training with tuition reimbursement. Please visit our website at www.firstenergycorp.com to learn more about all of our employee rewards programs. FirstEnergy proudly supports workforce diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. No recruiters or agencies without a previously signed contract. Unable to sponsor or transfer H-1B visas at this time.
Safety
Safety is a core value for FirstEnergy and is essential to all of our business activities. We ensure employees have the tools, information, and processes to perform their duties in a manner that assures safety for themselves, their co-workers, our customers and the public. Our goals are to provide a safe work environment, to maintain an accident-free, injury-free workplace, and to promote and maintain public safety. To meet these goals, we dedicate ourselves to achieving world-class safety standards.

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