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Substation Designer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Substation Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$30 - $55/hr

We are seeking an in office Substation Designer to support the design and development of electric utility substation projects. This role works closely with engineers, CAD Technicians, and project ...

New

Substation Engineer 2 (Remote)

OR · On-site +1

$98K - $125K/yr

SOLV Energy is a leading provider of infrastructure services to the power industry, designing, building and maintaining utility scale solar, battery storage and high voltage substation projects ...

Substation Engineer - I/II

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$104K - $132K/yr

This role works under the direction of a Professional Engineer (PE) and Project Managers to develop technically sound, constructible, and code-compliant substation designs while building increasing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Substation Designer information

See Oregon salary details

$57.1K

$88.5K

$123.7K

How much do substation designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation designer in Oregon is $88,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,600.00 and $99,400.00 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 Oregon?

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

What are popular job titles related to Substation Designer jobs in Oregon?

For Substation Designer jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Substation Designer jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Substation Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Substation Designer job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,545 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Substation Designer

TOTH AND ASSOCIATES INC

Portland, OR • On-site

$30 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Qualified candidates applying directly to Toth are eligible for a sign-on bonus up to 5% of the annual base salary. This bonus is subject to the applicable policies.

We are seeking an in office Substation Designer to support the design and development of electric utility substation projects. This role works closely with engineers, CAD Technicians, and project teams to develop safe, reliable, and constructible substation layouts and design packages. The ideal candidate has strong technical design experience and knowledge of utility electrical systems.

The Substation Designer will develop physical substation layouts and ensure equipment arrangements, electrical clearances, and physical spacings comply with applicable industry codes, standards, and client requirements. This position requires a strong combination of technical design knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate across multiple engineering disciplines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Develop physical layouts and detailed designs for new substations, expansions, upgrades, and equipment replacement projects.
  • Create and maintain accurate 2D CAD drawings, models, plans, elevations, sections, and design details with assistance from the CAD Department.
  • Ensure designs meet applicable industry standards, client specifications, safety requirements, and established engineering practices.
  • Coordinate with electrical, civil, and structural engineering teams to develop integrated, constructible designs.
  • Review equipment and vendor drawings to incorporate dimensions, connection requirements, and other critical project information.
  • Evaluate equipment arrangements, electrical clearances, accessibility, maintenance requirements, and future expansion needs.
  • Identify and help resolve design conflicts, clearance concerns, and constructability issues throughout the design process.
  • Prepare design documentation, equipment schedules, and supporting project information using Microsoft Office tools.
  • Participate in design reviews, quality control efforts, and project coordination meetings to ensure project accuracy and consistency.
  • Support projects through all phases of design, from initial concept development through construction-ready deliverables.
  • Associate's degree in drafting, design technology, engineering technology, CAD, or related field with 4+ years of relevant experience; OR
  • Bachelor's degree in a related technical field with 2+ years of relevant experience.
  • Experience in utility, substation, transmission & distribution, industrial electrical, or similar infrastructure design.
  • Substation design experience strongly preferred.
  • Experience with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Utility substation design (12.47 kV - 230 kV).
  • Knowledge of electrical clearances, equipment spacing, grounding, conduit & cable design, lightning protection, lighting, electrical schematics, AC and DC services, substation batteries, and related substation elements.
  • Familiarity with IEEE, ANSI, NESC, and NEC standards.
  • Experience with multidisciplinary coordination.

Benefits:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Eight paid holidays
  • Company-paid medical and dental coverage with buy-up options
  • 401(k) w/company matching and profit sharing
  • Discretionary bonuses
  • Paid Bonding Leave
  • Vision
  • Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance
  • Supplemental life insurance available
  • Short-term disability available
  • FSA and HSA options
  • Education assistance

Company Overview:
Toth and Associates, Inc. (TOTH) is a full-service consulting engineering firm offering a broad range of services, including electric utility engineering, structural engineering, civil engineering, land services, GIS/mapping, utility rate services, and joint-use/make-ready support. Since our founding in 2003, we have grown to serve public and private utilities, municipalities, architects, developers, educational institutions, and other clients across the country.

At TOTH, we believe strong relationships are the foundation of successful work. Our team is built on professional expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to serving both our clients and one another well. We value people, encourage continued growth, and strive to provide a workplace where employees can build meaningful, rewarding careers.

TOTH offers competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment. Visitwww.tothassociates.comto learn more about our company.