Lead Electrical Engineer Substation Design in Chicago

Energy Jobline ZR; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

FindTalent is seeking a Lead Electrical Engineer - Substation Design for a prominent engineering and infrastructure firm. Based in Chicago, IL, the role focuses on substation design, protection & control, and project leadership across distribution, sub-transmission, and transmission-level projects.

The successful candidate will mentor junior engineers, manage schedules and budgets, ensure rigorous QA/QC, and deliver high-quality electrical designs while interfacing with clients and vendors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 8+ years of experience in substation design (P&C and physical).
• Knowledge of industry codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams and multi-project management.
• Proficiency in electrical design software for substation projects.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex substation design projects including P&C and physical layouts.
• Apply advanced engineering techniques to deliver high-quality electrical designs.
• Oversee QA/QC to ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and resources for on-time delivery.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote a collaborative work environment.
• Participate in project planning, client meetings, and coordination.
• Interface with clients, vendors, and subcontractors for project alignment.
• Contribute to equipment/material installation method research.
• Lead data collection and analysis to support engineering decisions.
• Support continuous improvement and standard development.

Skills

Substation design

Protection & Control (P&C)

Project management

Team leadership

Communication skills

HV substation experience

Engineering software tools

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license or pursuing

Tools

Engineering software tools

Job description

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionJob Opportunity: Lead Electrical Engineer - Substation Design

About Us

FindTalent, a leading recruitment agency, is seeking a Lead Electrical Engineer - Substation Design for a prominent engineering and infrastructure firm known for delivering innovative and sustainable energy solutions. This is a unique opportunity to work on complex substation projects while leading a dynamic team of engineers, all within a company that values growth, , and technical excellence.

Position Overview

The Lead Electrical Engineer will spearhead substation design projects, focusing on distribution, sub-transmission, and transmission-level voltage classes. The ideal candidate will bring in-depth expertise in protection and control (P&C) design, physical substation design, and project management. This role involves mentoring junior engineers, managing project schedules, and ensuring technical accuracy and quality across all deliverables. The position follows a hybrid work model, based in Chicago, IL, with flexible remote options.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of complex substation design projects, including protection & control (P&C) and physical layouts.

• Apply advanced engineering techniques and principles to create high-quality electrical design deliverables.

• Oversee QA/QC processes to ensure technical excellence and compliance with industry standards.

• Manage project schedules, budgets, and resources, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.

• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented work environment.

• Participate in project planning meetings, client presentations, and internal coordination sessions.

• Interface directly with clients, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure project alignment and successful execution.

• Conduct complex research and develop recommendations for equipment, materials, and installation methods.

• Lead the collection and analysis of technical data to support engineering decisions.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and the development of engineering standards.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field from an accredited institution.

• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in substation design, including both P&C and physical design.

• Strong understanding of engineering design principles, industry codes, and regulatory standards.

• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing multiple projects.

• Proficiency in engineering software and design tools relevant to substation projects.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license or active pursuit of PE certification.

• Experience with high-voltage (HV) substation projects.

• Background in QA/QC and project leadership within the energy sector.

• Knowledge of renewable energy integration and HVDC/FACTS systems.

• Familiarity with right-of-way acquisition and permitting processes.

Why Join?

• Competitive compensation package with comprehensive benefits starting from day one.

• 401K match and opportunities for professional growth.

• Hybrid work environment promoting flexibility and work-life balance.

• Engage in meaningful projects that shape the future of sustainable energy.