Entry Level Substation Engineer

GFT; Charlotte (NC); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Wellness programs

Parental leave

Pet insurance

401(k)

Job summary

GFT is seeking an Entry Level Substation Engineer to join our power group in Charlotte, NC. The role follows a hybrid model requiring three days on site.

You will gain exposure to designing 69kV to 500kV substations, including layouts, one-line diagrams, and power systems, while collaborating with senior staff to develop your skills. We value ABET‑accredited electrical engineering backgrounds, strong communication, and a demonstrated interest in power design.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related area from an ABET accredited program.
• 0 to 2 years of experience in design, engineering and project management within power and utility industry.
• Demonstrated interest in electrical engineering and substation or power design through applied course, prior internship, or work experience.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the development of Substation layout drawings including, plan and elevations, yard layouts, grounding, grounding details, raceway, raceway details, control building layouts, cable lists, and material lists on new and existing substations.
• Help develop Substation one lines, three lines, Aux AC Power Systems, DC Power Systems, DC Schematics, SCADA and Communications Systems, Relay Panel Layouts, Equipment Wiring, and Cable Schedules for new and existing substations.
• Prepare calculations and report results to clients.
• Assist in the preparation of equipment specifications, for substation equipment, components, and construction.

Skills

Electrical engineering

Substation design

Power systems

Communication skills

Education

ABET-accredited Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Electrical design software

Job description

What You Will Do

GFT is seeking an Entry Level Substation Engineer to join our power group in Charlotte NC! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring a minimum 3 days of onsite office attendance. Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting‑edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem‑solving to meet today’s diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future.

What You’ll Be Challenged To Do

The successful candidate will have a desire to learn the design aspects of various substation projects from 69kV up to 500kV. You will work with our senior staff learn and strengthen your understanding of designing utility class electrical substations.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

• Assist with the development of Substation layout drawings including, plan and elevations, yard layouts, grounding, grounding details, raceway, raceway details, control building layouts, cable lists, and material lists on new and existing substations.
• Help develop Substation one lines, three lines, Aux AC Power Systems, DC Power Systems, DC Schematics, SCADA and Communications Systems, Relay Panel Layouts, Equipment Wiring, and Cable Schedules for new and existing substations.
• Prepare calculations and report results to clients.
• Assist in the preparation of equipment specifications, for substation equipment, components, and construction.

Education | Experience:

What You Will Bring To Our Firm

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related area from an ABET accredited program.
• 0 to 2 years of experience in design, engineering and project management within power and utility industry.
• Demonstrated interest in electrical engineering and substation or power design through applied course, prior internship, or work experience.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.

What We Prefer You Bring

• Engineer-in-training (EIT) certification.
• Experience with electrical design software.

Compensation

The range for this position is salary range is $75,000 - $85,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Featured Benefits

• Hybrid (in‑person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax‑deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid‑time‑off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

Company Overview

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.

GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™

is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Sponsorship is not being offered for this position.

Location:

Charlotte, NC

Core Business Hours:

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Employment Status:

Full-Time

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.

California Applicants

Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.