Electrical Engineer 7 (P&C)

CDM Smith; Columbia (SC); Hybrid; USD 119,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer for substation projects, located in South Carolina with a hybrid work model. The ideal candidate will have at least 12 years of experience, a PE license, and expertise in high-voltage projects. This role involves leading projects, mentoring engineers, and collaborating with clients to deliver innovative solutions. Competitive compensation ranges from $119,829 to $209,726.

Qualifications

• 12 years of related experience, domestic and/or international travel may be required.
• Professional engineering (PE) license preferred.
• Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Responsibilities

• Lead diverse and challenging projects in power systems and facility design.
• Own the full project lifecycle from concept design to client delivery.
• Collaborate with sales and clients to shape proposals and deliver innovative solutions.

Skills

Expert knowledge of computer‑assisted design and drafting (CADD) 3D and 4D software

Expert knowledge of engineering principles of design

Expert knowledge of Microsoft business software (Excel, Word)

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Expert knowledge of federal, state and local regulations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Title: Electrical Engineer 7 (P&C)

As a Senior Electrical Engineer – Substation Protection & Control (P&C), you’ll play a key role in leading the design and delivery of complex substation projects that ensure the reliability, safety, and efficiency of power systems. You’ll have the opportunity to drive innovation in protection and control systems, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate directly with clients and stakeholders on high‑profile energy projects. This is a hybrid role and can be based out of one of CDM Smith’s offices, offering both flexibility and the chance to work closely with top engineering talent across the firm.

Responsibilities

• Lead diverse and challenging projects in power systems, facility design, and renewable energy solutions.
• Own the full project lifecycle, from concept design to regulatory compliance and client delivery.
• Build expertise in power studies, electrical calculations, lighting design, communications, fire alarm, and security systems.
• Contribute thought leadership through white papers, technical publications, and industry conference participation.
• Collaborate with sales and clients to shape proposals and deliver innovative solutions.
• Take the lead as the primary client contact, enhancing relationships and trust.
• Grow as a leader by mentoring and supervising junior engineers.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering, or Electrical Technology or related discipline. Professional engineering (PE) license.
• 12 years of related experience. Domestic and/or international travel may be required, with the frequency contingent on specific duties, responsibilities and essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.
• Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience with substation engineering and detailed design for high‑voltage projects up to 345 kV.
• Expertise in protective relay schemes and relay schematics/wiring diagrams.
• Skilled in developing equipment specifications and selection for substation projects.
• Proficiency in hardware specifications and selection, including SCADA/RTU components.
• Strong knowledge of NESC (National Electrical Safety Code) and NEC (National Electrical Code).
• Experience in substation grounding grid design and lightning protection systems.

Job Information

Job Site Location: United States - Nationwide
Travel Required: 10%
Assignment Category: Fulltime-Regular
Visa Sponsorship Available: No — CDM Smith does not support sponsorship.

Skills and Abilities

• Expert knowledge of computer‑assisted design and drafting (CADD) 3D and 4D software and practices.
• Expert knowledge of engineering principles of design.
• Expert knowledge of Microsoft business software (Excel, Word, etc.).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Expert knowledge of federal, state and local regulations.

EEO Statement

CDM Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation

• Pay Range Minimum: $119,829
• Pay Range Maximum: $209,726
• All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.

Additional Information

Background check and drug testing information are required for this position. The position may be subject to background checks for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements; employment will be contingent upon successful completion. The timing of background checks for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case will the background check precede an interview.