Substation Electrical Engineer

Job Description

Title : Substation Engineer
Location : Downers Grove, IL
Hire Type : Direct Hire
Compensation : $135,000
Bonus/ Incentives/ Stock Options: ESOP, Tuition Reimbursement, Sabbatical every 5 years
Must have Skill Set : High Voltage Substation Design Experience

Overview:

A DAY IN THE LIFE
• Develop, review and approve engineering deliverables including: single-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, one-line drawings, bus arrangements, grounding systems, conduit/cable layouts, control house layouts, bus supports, equipment foundations.
• Perform electrical calculations and studies (e.g., short circuit/current interrupting, bus loading, conductor sizing, voltage drop, grounding/ground-grid analysis).
• Create or review specifications, data sheets, technical submittals for major substation equipment (transformers, switchgear, breakers, disconnects, bus duct, control/relay panels, cable tray).
• Coordinate with procurement to evaluate vendor submittals, ensure compliance with specification, respond to technical RFI's and clarifications.
• Interface with construction and commissioning teams: review contractor drawings, monitor field installation, support construction design changes, provide technical resolution of field issues and construction deviations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant codes and standards (IEEE, ANSI, NESC/NEC, applicable local utility/authority standards), and company QA/QC processes.
• Provide design support through construction & commissioning phases: attend factory acceptance tests (FATs), witness installation, support energization, assist in commissioning/verification.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (civil/structural, protection & control, project management, site construction) to ensure coordinated design and execution.
• Support change-order review, cost estimating, constructability review, risk identification in the design scope.
• Mentor junior engineers/drafters (at more senior levels), provide quality reviews of drawings/calculations.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (or related discipline) from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 5-10 years of substation design / engineering experience (transmission or utility scale) OR comparable heavy-commercial construction related background.
• Strong working knowledge of substation design practices for high voltage equipment, bus systems, grounding, control/relay, station service, etc.
• Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, produce single-line, three-line, schematic, and layout drawings.
• Experience preparing technical specifications and vendor data review.
• Proficiency with design tools and software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation, ETAP, SKM, Mathcad, or other power-system calculation tools).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to collaborate across design, procurement, and construction teams.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required (e.g., 10-30%).
• Familiarity with engineering deliverables in a GC setting (i.e., design-build or EPC support) is a plus.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Mike Schmitz
Technical Recruiter

If you're a skilled professional in engineering, manufacturing, or life sciences and you're exploring your next career move-I'm here to help.


I'm a Senior Technical Recruiter and Team Leader who's passionate about connecting great people with great companies. I specialize in placing candidates in roles within product, equipment, food/beverage, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, and I work closely with some of the most respected employers in the industry.

My approach is consultative, transparent, and relationship-driven. I'll take the time to understand your goals, skills, and preferences-and then help you navigate the search process with confidence. From resume tips and interview prep to timely feedback and honest communication, my goal is to make your job search feel less stressful and more strategic.

I've worked with professionals at all levels-from early career to senior leadership-and I'm always looking to expand my network of talented candidates. Whether you're actively on the market or just curious about what's out there, I'd love to connect.

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About Downers Grove, IL

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding Downers Grove, Illinois. Nestled in the heart of the Prairie State, this region offers a perfect blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Home to lush parks like Lyman Woods and the captivating Morton Arboretum, as well as renowned art galleries like the Cleve Carney Museum of Art, there is no shortage of inspiration here. Indulge in local delicacies like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, then catch a show at the historic Tivoli Theatre. With proximity to professional sports teams like the Chicago Bulls and White Sox, as well as easy access to downtown Chicago's bustling cultural scene, endless opportunities for growth and success await you in the Downers Grove area. Explore our listings today and discover your next career adventure!