Distribution Designer

Job Title Substation Designer Job Description This role focuses on providing detailed physical design and CADD/BIM support for transmission and distribution substation projects of varying size and complexity. The candidate will work as part of a nationally ranked Power Delivery team, developing construction‑ready design packages, supporting engineering calculations, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams. The position offers an excellent growth opportunity for a self‑directed professional who enjoys learning, solving complex design challenges, and contributing to high‑impact power delivery projects. Responsibilities Develop detailed substation physical design packages, including general arrangement drawings, equipment layouts and elevations, grounding and lightning protection plans, conduit, cable tray, and raceway layouts, and comprehensive bills of materials. Produce construction‑ready drawing packages for high‑voltage transmission and distribution substations that meet client requirements and applicable standards. Perform and support key engineering calculations such as ground grid design, conductor and bus sizing, cable sizing and routing, and AC/DC auxiliary system sizing. Assist in reviewing engineering and design calculations to verify accuracy, completeness, and compliance with relevant codes, standards, and client specifications. Coordinate closely with Protection and Control engineers, civil and structural teams, designers, and drafters to integrate multidisciplinary inputs into a complete and coherent substation design. Collaborate with engineering staff in both local and remote offices to ensure consistent design approaches, timely information sharing, and effective project execution. Participate in site visits to collect design data, verify existing conditions, and support construction and commissioning activities as needed. Work with contractors and clients in the field to resolve design issues, clarify design intent, and support successful project delivery. Use CADD/BIM tools to prepare, update, and maintain accurate substation drawings and models, ensuring all design revisions are properly documented. Apply knowledge of substation equipment layout, clearances, grounding, lightning protection, and conduit and cable routing systems to develop safe, reliable, and efficient designs. Essential Skills Associate degree or technical school degree in a relevant field, or an AutoCAD or MicroStation certification. At least 1 year of experience developing substation CADD layouts and designs from engineering inputs. Proficiency with AutoCAD for drafting and design of substation layouts and related drawings. Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools to support documentation, reporting, and coordination. Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET‑accredited program is strongly preferred for mid‑level engineering responsibilities. Between 2 and 8 years of experience in substation physical design, including work on transmission and distribution substations. Experience working with substation voltage levels from approximately 12 kV through 230/345 kV; higher voltage experience is considered a plus. Knowledge of industry codes and standards, including IEEE, NESC, and NEC, and the ability to apply them to substation design. Ability to work closely and effectively with engineering staff, designers, and drafters in both local and remote office settings. Strong skills in drafting, design, and electrical design/drafting for power, substation, and distribution projects. Additional Skills & Qualifications Engineer‑in‑Training (EIT) certification; progression toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure strongly preferred for engineering‑focused responsibilities. Experience working on utility or engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) substation projects. Familiarity with air‑insulated (AIS) and gas‑insulated (GIS) substations and their specific design considerations. Experience applying utility‑specific design standards and client‑specific requirements. Proficiency with MicroStation or Bentley Substation for substation design and drafting. Experience with 2D and 3D modeling tools, with Revit preferred, to support BIM‑based substation design workflows. Understanding of substation equipment layout, equipment clearances, and associated safety and reliability requirements. Understanding of grounding and lightning protection design principles and their application in substation environments. Understanding of conduit, cable tray, and cable routing systems for AC/DC power and control circuits. Background or experience in related disciplines such as mechanical, MEP, civil, or electrical drafting and design for power systems. Ability to work independently, take initiative, and learn new tools and standards while contributing to project delivery. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with a focus on teamwork and knowledge sharing. Work Environment The position is based in a designated office location with a flexible hybrid work arrangement, typically including three days per week in the office and additional work‑from‑home flexibility. The environment is collaborative, employee‑ownership‑driven, and encourages professional growth, innovation, and cross‑disciplinary teamwork. Job Type & Location Contract to Hire position based in Raleigh, NC. Pay And Benefits The pay range for this position is $20.00 – $30.00 per hour. Eligibility Requirements 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) Equal Opportunity Employer Statement Actalent 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr Actalent