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Substation Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

Lead Substation Engineer

Walled Lake, MI

$93K - $118K/yr

Working with a Designer/Drafter to Create the Required Drawings for Each Project. * Construction ... substation design experience. * Senior & Principal Level: Bachelor's degree in electrical ...

Intermediate Substation Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site +1

$97K - $124K/yr

Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and be a part of a growing ... system designs. Tasks may include assistance with research, design, concept development ...

Lead Substation Engineer

Walled Lake, MI · On-site

$93K - $118K/yr

Working with a Designer/Drafter to Create the Required Drawings for Each Project. * Construction ... substation design experience. * Senior & Principal Level: Bachelor's degree in electrical ...

Substation Design Engineer, Principal

Novi, MI · On-site

$92K - $118K/yr

Independently creates designs for substation installations, protective relaying systems, relay settings and SCADA systems * Reviews and approves designs created by other Engineers and Associate ...

Substation Design Engineer, Principal

Novi, MI · On-site

$92K - $117K/yr

Independently creates designs for substation installations, protective relaying systems, relay settings and SCADA systems * Reviews and approves designs created by other Engineers and Associate ...

Substation Design Engineer, Principal

Novi, MI · On-site

$92K - $118K/yr

Independently creates designs for substation installations, protective relaying systems, relay settings and SCADA systems * Reviews and approves designs created by other Engineers and Associate ...

Providing technical guidance and mentoring to new designers. * Interpreting and incorporating ... Conducting walkdowns at client substation facilities. We do not sponsor employees for work ...

Providing technical guidance and mentoring to new designers. * Interpreting and incorporating ... Conducting walkdowns at client substation facilities. Qualifications We do not sponsor employees ...

Showing results 21-40

Substation Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$47.1K

$73K

$102K

How much do substation designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation designer in Michigan is $72,994.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,300.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substation designer?

A Substation Designer is responsible for creating technical drawings and plans for electrical substations, which are critical components of power distribution systems. They use CAD software to design layouts, wiring diagrams, and equipment arrangements while ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations. Substation Designers collaborate with engineers, project managers, and utility companies to develop efficient and reliable substation designs. Their work supports power transmission and distribution, helping to maintain a stable and functional electrical grid.

What does a substation designer do?

A typical day for a Substation Designer involves developing and revising electrical and physical layout drawings, coordinating with engineers on technical requirements, and ensuring design compliance with industry standards. Substation Designers frequently collaborate with project managers, engineers, drafters, and construction teams to clarify project expectations and resolve design challenges. This role often requires balancing independent detailed work with team meetings to discuss project progress or address client feedback. Daily responsibilities also include updating documentation, reviewing specifications, and providing technical support during construction phases.

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

To thrive as a Substation Designer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering concepts, drafting, and utility standards, often supported by an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or MicroStation), industry-specific design tools, and knowledge of relevant codes and regulations is crucial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills distinguish top candidates in this role. These competencies ensure accurate, safe, and efficient substation designs that meet regulatory requirements and facilitate smooth project delivery.

How much does a substation designer make?

A substation designer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in utility or engineering firms working with high-voltage systems.

How to become a substation designer?

To become a substation designer, typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field is required. Gaining experience with power systems, electrical design software, and obtaining relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure can enhance job prospects. Familiarity with industry standards and safety regulations is also important for this role.

What are the responsibilities of a substation designer?

A substation designer is responsible for creating detailed plans and layouts for electrical substations, including equipment placement, wiring diagrams, and safety features. They ensure designs comply with industry standards and client specifications, often using CAD software, and collaborate with engineers and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Designer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Substation Designer jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Substation Designer job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,994 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Senior Substation Engineer - Protection & Controls

Midland, MI • On-site

Nexus Engineering Group
Specialized Design Services • 51 - 200 employees

$110K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and built by the people who do the work. As a Senior Substation Engineer – Protection & Controls, you’ll lead the protection, control, and wiring design that brings high-voltage substation projects to life.

You’ll lead the protection & control engineering and design work of high-voltage substation projects — single-line diagrams, schematics, wiring and control documentation, and the complete drawing packages that make a project constructible. Applying advanced technical standards, you’ll coordinate across disciplines, clients, and vendors; check and guide the work of other engineers and designers; and serve as a technical anchor the team and clients rely on.

Why Nexus

You’ll own a piece of what you build. Nexus is employee-owned through our ESOP, so the value you help create comes back to you — not just outside shareholders. We give senior engineers real ownership of the work and a voice in how it’s done.

What you can expect:

  • Employee ownership (ESOP) — build equity in the firm as it grows
  • Ownership of high-voltage substation P&C design, from single-line to constructible package
  • A senior seat — lead design execution, check others’ work, and mentor engineers and designers
  • Full-service EPCm exposure, from concept through startup, across a diverse client base
  • Career paths that grow with you — toward technical leadership, project management, or discipline leadership
  • Flexible work arrangements where business needs allow
What You’ll Do
  • Lead the protection, control, and wiring design of substation projects of varying size and complexity — single-line diagrams, schematics, wiring diagrams, and supporting documentation in CAD.
  • Develop and oversee protection and control deliverables: relay and control schematics, wiring documentation, cable and conduit schedules, nameplates, and related project documentation.
  • Apply advanced-to-expert design standards and client-specific documentation requirements across your projects.
  • Coordinate with drafters, designers, other disciplines, clients, vendors, and project managers to resolve design issues and deliver complete, constructible packages.
  • Perform formal checking of small-to-medium project deliverables, applying client processes and standards to review others’ work.
  • Provide input to project schedules and updates when acting in a lead capacity, accounting for cross-discipline interdependencies.
  • Provide clear technical direction, mentoring, and guidance to less-experienced engineers and design staff.
  • Strengthen client confidence through sound design decisions, responsive coordination, reliable execution, and reduced rework.
What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or a related discipline.
  • 6+ years of substation, power delivery, protection and controls, or electrical design experience.
  • Advanced knowledge of substation protection and controls design — single-line diagrams, schematics, wiring documentation, cable/conduit information, nameplates, and client-specific documentation.
  • Strong working knowledge of IEEE, ANSI, NEC, and NESC standards.
  • Proficiency with CAD, including AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
  • Demonstrated project leadership on substation projects.
  • A valid driver’s license — driving to and between project and substation sites is an essential function of this role, and some sites are not accessible by public transportation.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license, or the ability to obtain licensure in the near future.
  • Experience leading protection and controls design for high-voltage utility, industrial, or EPC substation projects.
  • Experience checking or reviewing substation protection and controls design packages.
  • Familiarity with client-specific design standards, project documentation requirements, and construction-support processes.
Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position is performed in a combination of office and active project-site environments. This role may require:

  • Frequent travel to project and substation sites, some not accessible by public transportation (a valid driver’s license is required)
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer workstation, with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Field visits that may involve exposure to weather, energized electrical equipment, noise, and heavy equipment; required PPE must be worn on site
  • The ability to walk uneven terrain and access outdoor substation yards and elevated or confined areas, with or without reasonable accommodation

The posted salary range represents the anticipated base pay for this position in accordance with applicable pay-transparency requirements and may vary based on experience, qualifications, skills, certifications, work location, and market conditions.

In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) — an ownership stake and a share in the long-term success of Nexus
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match and discretionary bonus opportunities
  • Paid time off, holidays, and paid parental leave
  • Professional development and career advancement — training, certifications, licensure support, tuition assistance, and mentorship
  • Wellness benefits and a flexible schedule where business needs allow

About Nexus Engineering Group

Nexus Engineering Group, a distinguished independent full-service engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCm) firm, provides comprehensive support to clients from concept through startup. With over a decade of demonstrated engineering and design success, Nexus stands out as the firm of choice for those valuing integrity and expertise.

At Nexus, you will be part of a talented and passionate team dedicated to excellence and innovation. We foster a collaborative and engaging work environment, making it a place where you’ll enjoy contributing to impactful projects. Joining Nexus means aligning with a firm renowned for its creativity, dedication, and relentless focus on achieving client goals.

Equal Opportunity Employer & Reasonable Accommodation

Nexus Engineering Group, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Nexus Engineering Group is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and hiring process. If you require an accommodation to participate in any part of the recruitment process, please contact us at careers@nexusegroup.com

Sponsorship & Work Authorization

Nexus Engineering Group does not provide employment visa sponsorship of any kind, including CPT, OPT, or employment-based visas. Candidates must be currently authorized to work in the United States and must be able to maintain that authorization throughout employment without any action, filing, or sponsorship by the company. This requirement applies both at the time of hire and on a continuing basis for the duration of employment. 

Third‑Party Agency Notice

Nexus Engineering Group does not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from external recruiters or agencies. We only engage approved third‑party partners under a written agreement initiated by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Any resumes submitted without prior authorization or a current agreement will not be eligible for placement fees and will be considered the property of Nexus Engineering Group.

We may use AI tools to help our recruitment team review and organize applications. These tools support — but never replace — human judgment, and final hiring decisions are made by people. If you’d like to know more about how your data is handled, contact us at careers@nexusegroup.com.