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Transmission Operations Engineer Jobs in Washington

Positions Available SMECO has opportunities for electrical engineers in our Transmission Department supporting engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance. SMECO is aggressively pursuing ...

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Transmission Operations Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$61.7K

$127.3K

$180.1K

How much do transmission operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for transmission operations engineer in Washington is $127,344.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,200.00 and $140,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transmission operations engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transmission Operations Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems, and grid operations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, EMS (Energy Management Systems), and NERC certifications are often required for effective system monitoring and compliance. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for managing grid stability and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure reliable power transmission, rapid response to system disturbances, and adherence to industry regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by transmission operations engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Transmission Operations Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining grid reliability during unexpected outages, integrating new energy sources, and adapting to evolving regulatory requirements. These issues require strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with control room staff and field crews, and staying updated with the latest grid management technologies. Proactively participating in ongoing training, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, and leveraging real-time data analytics can help address these challenges and ensure safe and efficient power transmission.

What is the difference between Transmission Operations Engineer vs Transmission Planning Engineer?

AspectTransmission Operations EngineerTransmission Planning Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certifications (e.g., PE)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, often with additional planning certifications
Work EnvironmentMonitoring real-time grid operations, responding to outagesDesigning future grid expansions, analyzing load forecasts
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, grid operators, energy companiesUtilities, consulting firms, energy sector
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding operational roles and responsibilitiesFocus on planning and development of transmission systems

Transmission Operations Engineers focus on real-time grid management and operational reliability, while Transmission Planning Engineers concentrate on designing and planning future transmission infrastructure. Both roles require electrical engineering credentials but serve different functions within the energy industry.

What is a transmission operations engineer?

Transmission Operations Engineers are professionals who manage and oversee the operation, monitoring, and control of electrical power transmission systems. They ensure the reliable and efficient delivery of electricity from power generation facilities to distribution networks and end users. Their responsibilities include coordinating system operations, responding to outages or emergencies, balancing electrical loads, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety standards. Transmission Operations Engineers play a critical role in maintaining grid stability and preventing power disruptions.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Transmission Operations Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Transmission Operations Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Transmission Operations Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,344 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Lead EHV Transmission Line Engineer 2 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Elkridge, MD • On-site

$134K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 439 rated engineering


Job description

Description
Responsibilities may include the following:
  • Lead the design of transmission lines in the 69kV to 765kV range.
  • Serve as a subject matter specialist in 500kV and 765kV transmission lines
  • Mentor and train less experienced design team members.
  • Coordinate design activities to ensure installation and operations will comply with specifications, codes, and client requirements.
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner and meet client requirements and S&L formats.
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations, drawing preparation, and transmission line models based in PLS-CADD.
  • Adhere to Sargent & Lundy's System of Processes

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, with the expectation of spending three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.
Dependent upon your location, this opportunity offers a generous relocation package.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • BS degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
  • 12 years of transmission design experience.
  • 3 or more years of experience in 500kV and/or 765kV transmission line design
  • Familiarity with the electrical considerations for 765kV transmission lines
  • Proficiency with PLS-CADD software.
  • Experience must include preparation of scopes of work, development of conceptual designs, determination of design basis, the selection of equipment and materials, and the preparation and assembling of calculations and specifications.
  • Experience working directly with clients on transmission lines from 69kV through 765kV.
  • Knowledge of engineering standards including NESC, IEC, ASCE, ACI, IEEE and ANSI.
  • Experience reviewing design drawings created by others.

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • PE license
  • PMP certification
  • Construction experience
  • Familiarity with ArcGIS

AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy
In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:
  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$134,546 - $205,557
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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