Substation Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Substation Engineer

Job Description

The Substation Engineer will join a dynamic team of power professionals focused on designing and delivering high-voltage substation projects across the country. Working under the guidance of experienced engineers and project managers, this role develops technical designs, performs electrical calculations, prepares engineering documentation, and supports project execution from concept through construction. The position offers strong mentorship, structured training, and clear pathways for professional growth within the power delivery sector.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design of high-voltage substations ranging from 69kV to 500kV, including physical layout, protection and control systems, grounding, and civil and structural elements.
• Prepare detailed engineering drawings using tools such as AutoCAD and MicroStation to support substation and electrical designs.
• Perform electrical calculations such as short circuit, load flow, voltage drop, and grounding analysis to ensure safe and reliable system performance.
• Support the development of one-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, schematics, and wiring diagrams for substation projects.
• Collaborate with internal teams to integrate structural, civil, and environmental considerations into comprehensive substation designs.
• Prepare technical specifications, bills of materials, and complete construction drawing and documentation packages.
• Assist in writing engineering reports, design narratives, and other client-facing deliverables that clearly communicate design intent and technical decisions.
• Maintain organized project documentation and adhere to established quality control standards and procedures.
• Participate in project meetings with utilities, clients, and internal stakeholders to discuss design progress, technical issues, and project requirements.
• Coordinate with other engineering disciplines, including civil, structural, and environmental, to ensure cohesive and timely project execution.
• Communicate effectively with experienced engineers and project managers to receive mentorship, technical guidance, and feedback on design work.
• Engage in on-the-job training and formal learning opportunities to build technical expertise in power delivery and substation engineering.
• Stay current with relevant industry standards and codes, including IEEE, NEC, and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), as well as utility-specific requirements.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation by sharing ideas, identifying opportunities to enhance design practices, and supporting process improvements.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• Foundational knowledge of electrical engineering principles with a demonstrated interest in power systems and power delivery.
• Experience using AutoCAD and/or MicroStation for preparing engineering drawings and designs.
• Understanding of high-voltage substation concepts, including physical design, protection and control, grounding, and electrical design fundamentals.
• Ability to perform basic electrical calculations such as short circuit, load flow, voltage drop, and grounding analysis with guidance.
• Familiarity with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC).
• Ability to develop and interpret one-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, design narratives, and participating in project meetings.
• Organizational skills to maintain accurate project documentation and follow quality control procedures.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Motivation to learn and grow in the power sector, including substation and power delivery design.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is preferred and encouraged.
• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline is preferred.
• Experience or coursework related to power systems, power delivery, or substation engineering.
• Exposure to or interest in tools and concepts such as Revit, SCADA systems, relay applications, lightning protection, conduit and physical design, and detailed electrical design for substations.
• Ability to stay current with IEEE standards and utility requirements.
• Interest in obtaining Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, with support and encouragement provided.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail in technical work.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment and contribute positively to team culture.

Work Environment

This is an in-office role based in a professional engineering environment, working five days per week alongside transmission and distribution engineering groups. The Substation Engineer will collaborate closely with designers and engineers who specialize in substation projects, with the core substation team primarily located in Lansdale, PA. Work is performed in a modern office setting using industry-standard design and analysis tools such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and other power engineering software. The culture emphasizes mentorship under licensed Professional Engineers, encouragement to obtain EIT and PE credentials, and opportunities for ongoing learning. The team environment is energetic and supportive, with a group of professionals focused on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. Benefits include health care, dental coverage, a 401(k) plan, bonus structure, profit sharing, retirement match, and additional incentives aligned with long-term professional growth. Standard professional office attire is expected.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lansdale, PA.

The pay range for this position is $33.65 - $36.05/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Lansdale,PA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 5, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.