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Substation Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Physical Designer (Substation)

Roanoke, VA · On-site +1

$77K - $100K/yr

GFT is searching for a Physical Designer (Substation) to work in either Chicago,IL, St. Louis, MO, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Marlon, NJ, Charlotte, NC, or Roanoke, VA office. An experienced ...

Overview Kimley-Horn's Richmond office is seeking a Substation Physical Designer with 4+ years of experience to join the Power Delivery team. The successful candidate will support the design, and ...

Kimley-Horn's Richmond office is seeking a Substation Physical Designer with 4+ years of experience to join the Power Delivery team. The successful candidate will support the design, and execution of ...

Physical Designer (Substation)

Roanoke, VA · On-site +1

$77K - $100K/yr

GFT is searching for a Physical Designer (Substation) to work in either Chicago,IL, St. Louis, MO, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Marlon, NJ, Charlotte, NC, or Roanoke, VA office. An experienced ...

Physical Designer (Substation)

Roanoke, VA · On-site +1

$80K - $110K/yr

GFT is searching for a Associate Physical Designer (Substation) to work in either Chicago,IL, St. Louis, MO, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Marlon, NJ, Charlotte, NC, or Roanoke, VA office. An ...

Substation Physical Designer - Remote Location: Remote US Ready to make a difference? ICF is seeking a Substation Physical Designer to support execution of distribution substation projects at ...

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Substation Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$53.5K

$83K

$116K

How much do substation designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation designer in Virginia is $83,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,900.00 and $93,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for a Substation Designer and how do they interact with other team members?

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 is a Substation Designer job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Substation Designer position, and why are they important?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Designer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Substation Designer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Designer jobs in Virginia? For Substation Designer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substation Designer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Substation Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Substation Designer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,029 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Physical Designer (Substation)

GFT.

Roanoke, VA • On-site, Remote

$77K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

GFT is searching for a Physical  Designer (Substation) to work in either Chicago,IL, St. Louis, MO, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Marlon, NJ,  Charlotte, NC, or Roanoke, VA office. An experienced Physical Designer could also work remotely anywhere in the United States (fully remote).

Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today's diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here.  

What you'll be challenged to do:

This experienced Designer will be responsible for the physical design of high voltage substation projects through 500kv.

As a member of our team you will be part of an organization widely recognized for quality and excellence. Our senior team members, regarded as industry experts, are focused on training and leading the next generation of Engineers and Designers. You will receive a competitive salary, full benefits, and a valuable work/life balance.If you are looking to join a collaborative team that is focused on delivering excellence, please consider applying.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

  • Design and execution of high-voltage substations projects in the 34.5kV - 500kV range with an emphasis on project safety, cost, quality and reliability.
  • Generate designs and detailed engineering deliverables working under the supervision of lead engineer
  • Detail physical aspects of the engineering design such as general arrangement, elevation, grounding and conduit drawings
  • Complete basic engineering calculations related to engineering deliverables
  • Follow specific instructions of supervisor or engineers to perform the more complex design assignments requiring application of standard design principles and practices
  • Use standard CAD tools to create drawings and related deliverables
  • Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction, and installation standards and specifications
  • Inspect completed installations and observe operations, to ensure conformance to design and equipment specifications and compliance with operational and safety standards
  • Oversee project production efforts to assure projects are completed satisfactorily, on time and within budget
  • Prepare and study technical drawings and specifications of electrical systems, to ensure that installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements
  • Travel to job sites for job assessment and data gathering as needed. Return to the office with sufficient field notes to complete project design

What you'll bring to our firm:

  • 3+ years of relevant substation or general electrical T&D designing experience.
  • Expertise in the use of computer-aided drafting tools such as AutoCAD or MicroStation
  • Thorough knowledge of the following codes, National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), National Electrical Code(NEC), Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers(IEEE), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and Design Guide for Rural Substations
  • Ability to review and coordinate vendor submittals to ensure compliance with design parameters
  • Knowledge of substation phase spacing and electrical clearance requirements for live conductors, switch components, and bus supports
  • Ability to develop and review a complete set of construction documents (layouts, elevations, details, grounding plans and details, trench and conduit plans and details, single line diagrams, etc.) based upon project/client specification with little or no supervision
  • Ability to create control enclosure layout, cable tray layout and details, and conduit drawings
  • Knowledge of substation voltages, MV, HV, EHV
  • Ability to develop and design substation duct bank
  • Ability to interpret engineering calculations and studies and apply same to design requirements
  • Ability to apply project schedules to complete tasks in a timely manner and within project budget
  • Thorough knowledge of substation structures and equipment including connectors, insulators, switches, and all types of conductors and how they interconnect
  • Knowledge in substation construction and/or commissioning techniques and industry standards
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence
  • Proficiency to sketch single line diagrams, layouts, general arrangements, conduit plans, trench plans, grounding plans and other design documents with little or no oversight

What we prefer you bring:

  • Experience in the energy industry or a consulting services environment
  • Skilled in 3D Modeling

Compensation:

The salary range for this role is $77,000- $100,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Featured Benefits: 

  • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
  • Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. 
  • Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
  • Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
  • Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
  • Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives 

GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law. 

 

"California Applicants"

Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property of GFT.

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Location: Remote, Chicago,IL, St. Louis, MO, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Marlon, NJ,  Charlotte, NC, or Roanoke, VA

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time 

Internal Requisition ID:

Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

Employment Type: FULL_TIME