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Substation Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Lead Substation Designer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Substation Designer for our Ann Arbor, MI office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and be a part of a growing ...

WSP

Lead Substation Designer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site +1

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Substation Designer for our Ann Arbor, MI office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and be a part of a growing ...

GFT.

Principal Substation Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI

$147K - $170K/yr

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients. This role is a remote role. Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects ...

GFT.

Principal Substation Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$147K - $170K/yr

As a substation engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients. This role is a remote role. Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects ...

FindTalent

Substation Project Engineer

Detroit, MI

$97K - $124K/yr

Substation Project Engineer Location: MI, and other States Work Schedule: Hybrid Job Summary: FindTalent is seeking an experienced and motivated Substation Project Engineer on behalf of our client.

WSP

Intermediate Substation Design Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$97K - $124K/yr

Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges. This position offers an on-site ...

WSP

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 organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges. This position offers an onsite ...

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All JobsSubstation JobsSubstation Jobs in Michigan

Substation information

See Michigan salary details

$29.6K

$91.2K

$132.9K

How much do substation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation in Michigan is $91,172.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,400.00 and $118,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Substation vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectSubstationPower Plant Operator
CertificationsElectrical certifications, technical trainingOperational licenses, technical training
Work EnvironmentElectrical substations, outdoor and indoorPower plants, control rooms, outdoor
Industry UsageElectric utility companies, transmissionPower generation facilities, utilities
Job FocusManaging electrical equipment, switching, maintenanceOperating and controlling power generation equipment

Substation workers focus on maintaining and operating electrical substations, ensuring reliable power transmission. Power plant operators manage the generation process at power plants. While both roles require technical skills and safety certifications, substations are part of the transmission network, whereas power plant operators work at generation sites. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the energy sector.

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

To thrive as a Substation Technician, you need a solid background in electrical systems, high-voltage safety, and an associate degree or technical certification in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, protective relays, and industry-standard testing tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, troubleshooting skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, reliable operation and maintenance of critical power infrastructure.

What are substation jobs?

Substation jobs refer to a range of roles focused on the construction, maintenance, and operation of electrical substations, which are key facilities in the power transmission and distribution network. These positions can include substation technicians, engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel. Their primary responsibilities involve monitoring equipment, ensuring safe and reliable power flow, performing inspections and repairs, and responding to outages or emergencies. Substation jobs require strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and often some level of electrical certification or training.

What are some common challenges faced by substation technicians and how can they be managed on the job?

Substation technicians often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous environments, managing high-voltage equipment, and responding to emergency outages. To manage these, technicians must adhere strictly to safety protocols, continuously update their technical knowledge, and collaborate closely with engineers and line workers. Effective communication and staying current with industry best practices can help prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations. Many organizations also provide ongoing training to help technicians advance and stay prepared for new technologies in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Substation jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Substation jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Substation jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Substation job openings:
Substation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,172 per year, or $43.8 per hour.
Lead Substation Designer

Lead Substation Designer

WSP

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 73 rated business consultants

Job description


WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Substation Designer for our Ann Arbor, MI office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges. Office-based or hybrid work is preferred, with flexibility for remote arrangements for qualified candidates.
This Opportunity
This position provides technical design and CADD support, guidance, and oversight to ensure the production of substation design drawings and specifications, including overseeing and generating CADD designs for new, upgraded, and retrofit substations across multi-site or multi-phase projects of moderate to large scale, scope, and complexity. The role generates and supports accurate and concise design-phase deliverables such as site plans, general arrangements, equipment layouts, grounding plans, conduit and raceway layouts, structural and foundation drawings, sections, details, bills of material, and technical documentation, ensuring work is delivered with a level of quality that meets or exceeds applicable industry standards, client and utility requirements, and WSP design practices for substation facilities.
Your Impact
  • Collect, compile, and analyze data including survey information, geotechnical reports, vendor equipment drawings, electrical schematics, one-lines, client standards, and design criteria to support substation drafting and design activities for single- and multi-site projects.
  • Use 2D and 3D computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software and work closely with engineers to resolve design details or discrepancies, preparing substation drawings that require a high degree of precision on projects of moderate to large scale, complexity, and/or scope.
  • Follow established practices to provide technical design assistance and guidance that supports the proper fit, form, and function of substation equipment and systems, including foundations, structures, grounding, and raceway systems, in accordance with project standards and applicable codes.
  • Act as a technical resource regarding work progress and problem resolution; may serve as the primary Drafting/Design Support resource on a substation project or assist in overseeing drafting activities for projects of moderate to large scope and complexity.
  • Monitor and verify accuracy of drawings, quantities, and calculations; interpret contract plans and specifications; and recognize moderately complex substation design or constructability issues, escalating or resolving discrepancies as appropriate.
  • Work independently or as part of a cross-functional project team, occasionally leading tasks and Drafting/Design Support staff on technical substation design assignments.
  • Ensure plans adhere to client and utility standards, NESC, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Prepare multiple iterations of substation design drawings for internal quality control, interdisciplinary coordination, and engineer review.
  • Monitor and oversee drafting and design plans to ensure quality control, consistency, and contract compliance; documenting work progress and issues throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Work collaboratively with the engineer-of-record and other technical professionals on assigned substation project phases, design checks, and deliverables.
  • Apply analytical techniques and design software to support larger-scale and more complex substation design challenges or to modify existing substation facilities in accordance with updated standards and project requirements.
  • Engage in occasional coordination with clients, utilities, and contractors to support design reviews, drawing clarification, and project scheduling.
  • May attend pre-construction, constructability, or design review meetings and assist in responding to contractor or client questions.
  • Provide guidance and training to entry-level drafting and design support staff within the substation design discipline.
  • Remain current in substation design practices, drafting standards, CADD tools, and utility requirements.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma.
  • Minimum of 11 years of relevant post-education experience, including drafting and design support experience focused on substation or high-voltage utility infrastructure projects.
  • Advanced knowledge of drafting and design support principles, practices, processes, and techniques related to substation design.
  • Advanced knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and compliance practices relevant to substation facilities and utility projects.
  • Strong ability to perform technical computations and calculations involving geometry, quantities, and layout considerations, with the ability to interpret plans and specifications.
  • Analytical mindset with the ability to exercise sound judgment in evaluating technical and design-related situations.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Demonstrated self-leadership with attention to detail, results orientation, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic project environment.
  • Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, work independently, and comply with company policies and procedures.
  • Advanced proficiency with CADD platforms, technical documentation, office automation tools, spreadsheets, and design support software.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze data and drawings and arrive at effective, logical solutions.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in closely related discipline is preferred.

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About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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