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Substation Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

QTS Realty Trust, Inc.

Senior Substation Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$100K - $128K/yr

The Senior Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center ...

Sargent & Lundy

Substation Engineer 3 - Grid

Elkridge, MD · Hybrid

$74K - $113K/yr

As a Substation Engineer, you will: * Take an active role in project conceptualization, work planning, and project execution. * Support challenging assignments that include investigating, trouble ...

Sargent & Lundy

Substation Engineer 3 - Grid

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$74K - $113K/yr

As a Substation Engineer, you will: * Take an active role in project conceptualization, work planning, and project execution. * Support challenging assignments that include investigating, trouble ...

Sargent & Lundy

Substation Engineer 3 - Grid

Elkridge, MD · Hybrid

$74K - $113K/yr

As a Substation Engineer, you will: * Take an active role in project conceptualization, work planning, and project execution. * Support challenging assignments that include investigating, trouble ...

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All JobsSubstation Engineer JobsSubstation Engineer Jobs in Washington

Substation Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$70.8K

$128.7K

$169.3K

How much do substation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation engineer in Washington is $128,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,600.00 and $142,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Substation Engineer vs Power Systems Engineer?

AspectSubstation EngineerPower Systems Engineer
CertificationsPE license, IEEE certificationsPE license, IEEE certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, construction, and maintenance of substationsPower system analysis, planning, and optimization
Industry UsageElectric utilities, transmission companiesUtilities, consulting firms, manufacturers
Common Search IntentDesign and operation of substationsPower system analysis and planning

Substation Engineers focus on the design, construction, and maintenance of electrical substations, ensuring reliable power delivery. Power Systems Engineers work on analyzing and optimizing entire electrical networks, often involving system-wide planning. While both roles require similar credentials and work within the electric utility industry, their specific responsibilities differ, with Substation Engineers concentrating on physical infrastructure and Power Systems Engineers on system performance and analysis.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in large corporations or high-demand industries.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Substation engineers, a specialized role within electrical engineering, typically earn salaries below $200,000 annually, with top earners in senior positions or with extensive experience possibly reaching higher figures. Achieving a $500,000 salary generally requires advanced roles, management positions, or working in high-paying industries or regions, often supplemented by bonuses or profit sharing.

What Does a Substation Engineer Do?

Substation engineers create design plans for power substations and collaborate with the project team and other stakeholders to finalize schematics. As a substation engineer, your job duties include generating design drawings and documents, determining the appropriate size and type of cables and conduits for each substation, facilitating tasks using engineering application software, and coordinating efforts with team members. The qualifications for a career as a substation engineer are a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, several years of experience in electrical engineering jobs, and excellent problem-solving skills.

What are some common challenges faced by Substation Engineers in coordinating with multiple project stakeholders?

Substation Engineers often collaborate with project managers, utility companies, contractors, and regulatory bodies. A frequent challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment among all stakeholders, especially when project timelines or design specifications change. Managing documentation, adhering to safety standards, and addressing unforeseen technical issues require effective coordination. Building strong relationships and using project management tools can help Substation Engineers navigate these complexities and keep projects on track.

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

To thrive as a Substation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, power systems, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with software like AutoCAD, ETAP, and SCADA systems, as well as knowledge of national electrical codes and safety standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers manage complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure safe, reliable, and efficient design, operation, and maintenance of electrical substations critical to power delivery.

What does a substation engineer do?

A substation engineer designs, maintains, and oversees the operation of electrical substations that distribute power. They ensure equipment such as transformers, circuit breakers, and protective relays function correctly, often using specialized tools and adhering to safety standards. The role requires technical knowledge of electrical systems and may involve troubleshooting, inspections, and compliance with industry regulations.

How much money do substation engineers make?

Substation engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in electrical systems and project management can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high demand for power infrastructure expertise.
More about Substation Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Substation Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Engineer jobs in Washington? For Substation Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Substation Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Substation Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Substation Engineer jobs in WA? For Substation Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Substation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,693 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

Senior Substation Engineer

QTS Realty Trust, Inc.

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$100K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Senior Substation Engineer will support the overall design and execution of QTS utility infrastructure. This role will support the delivery of utility capacity at each campus for data center substation and utility build projects. This role will interface and collaborate with many critical stakeholders, including but not limited to: energy leaders responsible for utility contracts and negotiations; utility engagement developing relationships with utilities; pre-development leads evaluating new properties; operations leaders managing load growth projections; and development team project leaders planning and building new data centers and substations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Other duties may be assigned.
  • Lead design life cycle of high voltage substations performed under EPC contracts, including studies, procurements, and development of construction deliverables.
  • Provide technical guidance and decisions to support development, design, and installation of high voltage substations.
  • Oversee the construction, installation, and commissioning of substation equipment and systems.
  • Identify project execution risks and develop associated mitigation plans.
  • Lead operational initiatives to improve execution success at program level.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to substation operations.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contractors to meet project timelines and budgets.
  • Prepare technical reports, specifications, and documentation for substation projects.
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
  • Provide technical support and training to junior engineers and field personnel.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in substation design software
  • Strong knowledge of substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 15 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS
This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benefits. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and/or Engineer in Training (EIT) registration.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Proficient in substation design software
  • Strong knowledge of substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, switchgear, and protective relays. This should include 15kV through 500kV.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, ANSI, NEC).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25% to project sites as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • 15 Years of experience in substation engineering or a related field.
  • Knowledge of electric transmission systems and design

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing situations at a high-growth company.
  • Ability to prioritize, multitask, and deliver high-quality work in tight timeframes.

TOTAL REWARDS
This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and HSA accounts; paid holidays; paid time off; paid volunteer days; employee assistance program; tuition assistance; parental leave; military leave assistance; QTS scholarship for dependents; wellness program, and other company benefits. This role is bonus-eligible and may qualify for equity.
We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or discrimination claim.
The "Know Your Rights" Poster is included here:
Know Your Rights (English)
Know Your Rights (Spanish)
The pay transparency policy is available here:
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster-Formatted
QTS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to talentacquisition@qtsdatacenters.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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