Lead Substation P&C Engineer

CDM Smith; Milwaukee (WI); Hybrid; USD 134,264 - 248,394; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer – Substation Protection & Control to lead complex substation design and delivery. You will guide projects from concept through regulatory compliance, while mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with clients to provide innovative power system solutions.

You will contribute expertise in power studies, relay schemes, and equipment specifications, and engage with customers as the primary contact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical/related field, or equivalent experience.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
• 12 years of related experience or equivalent
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of complex substation projects.
• Own full project lifecycle from concept design to regulatory compliance.
• Develop power studies, electrical calculations, and lighting design.
• Contribute technical leadership through papers and conference participation.
• Collaborate with sales and clients to shape proposals.
• Serve as primary client contact and mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering, Electrical Technology or related discipline

Professional Engineer (PE) license

Tools

SCADA/RTU components

Job description

Company Overview

Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world‑class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.

Job Description

Our Industrial Business Unit is a strong design‑builder that delivers water, facilities and environmental projects to address client challenges in the most promising markets.

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, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with clients and stakeholders on high‑profile energy projects.

This is a hybrid role that may be based out of CDM Smith’s offices, offering flexibility and the chance to work closely with top engineering talent across the firm. Preferred locations include Wadsworth, OH; Columbus, OH; Pittsburgh, PA; Philadelphia, PA; and offices in New Jersey, New York, Virginia, and Georgia. Other U.S. locations may be considered based on candidate qualifications.

Electrical Engineer – Power Systems & Design

• 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering, Electrical Technology or related discipline.
• Professional engineering (PE) license.
• 12 years of related experience.
• Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required.

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.

Amount of Travel Required

10% or less

EEO Statement

We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are 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, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Pay Range

USD $134,264.00 – $248,394.00

Visa Sponsorship

No – we will not support sponsorship in the United States (e.g., H‑1B or TN visas) for this position.