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Substation Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Electrical Substation Designer II is responsible for the technical execution of substation drawing packages, including equipment layouts, protection and control schematics, and civil/structural ...

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 ...

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

$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 ...

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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 Aug 29, 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 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 popular job titles related to Substation Designer jobs in Virginia?

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

What job categories do people searching Substation Designer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Substation Designer jobs in Virginia 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,029 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Electrical Substation Designer

Sterling, VA


Rosendin
Construction • 5 - 10K employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 80 rated construction

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Whether you're a recent grad or a seasoned professional, you can experience meaningful career growth at Rosendin. Enjoy a true sense of ownership as you work with a proven industry leader on some of the most exciting and high-profile projects in the nation. We offer a wide range of job opportunities, competitive compensation, full benefits, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan and more.

Why Rosendin? Committed. Innovative. Engaged.

If you're looking to take your career to the next level and work with some of the best and brightest in the industry, we want to hear from you. Since our founding over 100+ years ago, Rosendin has been driven to positively impact the communities where we live and work. We are an organization built on integrity and we have a culture that empowers people, embraces diversity, and inspires everyone to do their best. As one of the largest EMPLOYEE-OWNED electrical contractors in the United States, you will have the unique benefit of being a shareholder at a company that is experiencing tremendous growth and success. When our people succeed and fuel our success, we reward them. We'd love to have you as a shareholder!

YOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY:

The Electrical Substation Designer II is responsible for the technical execution of substation drawing packages, including equipment layouts, protection and control schematics, and civil/structural details. Working under the guidance of Project Manager, Engineers and Lead Designer, this role focuses on translating engineering logic into high-quality, intelligent deliverables. We are looking for a collaborative team player who excels at maintaining data integrity, follows established standardized workflows, and proactively communicates with the project team to ensure design accuracy.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Coordinates with clients, architects, and other discipline engineers to complete drawing packages.

  • Single line, relay protection diagrams, 3 wiring design/drawing, cable schedules, distribution- gear up, low voltage panel board schedules with moderate supervision.

  • Apply Rosendin standards for wire sizing, bus feeds, and protection for published schedules. Has a working knowledge of feeder sizing and ratings of major substation equipment.

  • Perform coordination with other trades, such as architectural, structural, and mechanical to complete the substation drawings.

  • With the guidance of engineers, create details as required to define installation for construction.

  • Have familiarity with the National Electrical Safety Code and IEEE standards and know how to use them as a reference.

  • Attend project design team meetings. Interface with various team members, particularly the client, and other disciplines.

  • Actively contribute to the development and maintenance of intelligent CAD libraries (AutoCAD Electrical/SDS) to ensure scalability across multiple high-voltage projects.

  • Back-check of own work as well as the work of other designers and supervision for accuracy and completeness before passing on to others.

  • A 'growth mindset' regarding new software automation and skills.

  • Participate in some site visits perform field verification or assist with project closeouts as required.

  • Maintains good safety protocols and PPO when onsite visits.

  • Position requires the ability to coordinate with others, specifically the ability to navigate technical disagreements with professional curiosity and a solution-oriented mindset.

  • Ability to leverage AI tools to enhance design efficiency and workflow automation.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:

  • The ability to understand how a single change in a schematic ripples through the entire package.

  • Ownership over the accuracy of deliverables

  • The ability to translate complex engineering requirements into clear drawing documentation and instructions.

  • An innate drive for consistency in CAD standards to ensure a professional, high-quality output.

WHAT YOU BRING TO US:
  • Proficiency in 2D & 3D modeling including AutoCAD Electrical, REVIT, and Inventor.

  • Knowledge of Substation Design Suite (SDS) for both Protection & Control (AutoCAD Electrical) and Physical Design (Inventor/Revit).

  • Understanding of automated, intelligent design workflows and will contribute to the development of standardized systems.

  • Fundamental knowledge of IEEE, NESC, NEC Codes.

  • Understanding of Protection & Control (P&C) logic.

  • Familiar with PDM software, Vault, ProjectWise, Adept.

  • Proven experience working within a structured Engineering Document Management System (EDMS) and a preference for standardized design environments.

  • Proficient in using a computer and Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.).

  • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks, projects and changing priorities as necessary.

  • Ability to work under time pressure and adapt to changing requirements with a positive attitude.

  • Effective oral and written communication skills as required for the position.

  • Ability to be self-motivated, proactive and an effective team player.

  • Ability to interact effectively and professionally with all levels of employees, both management and staff alike, vendors, clients, and others.

TRAVEL:
  • Up to 15% (Does not include local field visits)

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • General work environment - sitting for long periods, standing, walking, typing, carrying, pushing, bending. Work is conducted primarily indoors with varying environmental conditions such as fluorescent lighting and air conditioning

  • Noise level is usually low to medium; it can be loud on the jobsite.

  • We fully comply with the ADA and applicable state law, including considering reasonable accommodation measures that may enable qualified disabled applicants and employees to perform essential functions.

  • Occasional lifting of up to 30 lbs.

Rosendin is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, age (over 40), or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

YOU Matter - Our Benefits
  • ESOP - Employee Stock Ownership

  • 401 K

  • Annual bonus program based upon performance, profitability, and achievement

  • 17 PTO days per year plus 10 paid holidays

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

  • Term Life, AD&D Insurance, and Voluntary Life Insurance

  • Disability Income Protection Insurance

  • Pre-tax Flexible Spending Plans (Health and Dependent Care)

  • Charitable Giving Match with our Rosendin Foundation

Our success is rooted in our people. We all come together around long-term vision and a sense of shared ownership. As a group, we do whatever it takes to ensure the success of our business and your career.

Rosendin is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, age (over 40), or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.



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