Lead Substation Physical Design Engineer

GAI Consultants, Inc.; Glen Allen (VA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Market-based compensation

Medical, dental, and vision plans

401(k) with company match

Generous paid time off

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Substation Physical Design Engineer to manage the design of high voltage substation projects. The successful candidate will lead technical activities, mentor junior engineers, and ensure adherence to client standards. Required qualifications include a B.S. in Engineering and a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience. The position offers career development opportunities, competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in substation design.
• Able to create drawings using 3D CAD software.
• Strong technical mentoring and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage and perform design checks related to technical activities.
• Create physical layouts and substation designs.
• Assist in reviewing junior engineers' designs.

Skills

Substation design experience

3D CAD software

Technical mentoring

Project management

Communication skills

Education

B.S. Engineering or other technical degree

Job description

GAI Consultants is seeking a candidate for Substation Physical Design Engineer that will perform physical design related tasks, technical guidance/training/mentoring of staff, and assist with design reviews as required. The successful candidate will work on various substation engineering projects including detailed design for high voltage substation projects from 12kV through 500kV. Thrive in GAI’s corporate culture that empowers employee advancement with support for career and professional development and engages with staff to build mutual trust and respect and consideration for diverse perspectives, people, experiences, and ideas.

Job Duties

• Manage, design, and perform design checks related to technical activities including, but not limited to, the following:
• Development of and/or revisions to existing drawings for one-lines, physical arrangements, grounding, conduit, lighting, lightning protection, and rigid bus analysis with the ability to produce the associated drawings utilizing client specific CAD software.
• Create physical layouts and substation designs that integrate with protection and control drawings.
• Creation of project criteria.
• Development of design specifications including the overall bill of materials.
• Design and sizing of auxiliary systems including AC/DC load centers as well as batteries and chargers.
• Design and sizing of conduit and high voltage conductor.
• Ordering long‑lead item materials.
• Assist in reviewing junior engineer’s designs and verify they meet client standards and specifications.
• Document QAQC reviews, maintain record documents, and communicate information to the team.
• Traveling to other offices and meeting with clients and attending project‑specific meetings on a regular basis.
• Managing tasks on multiple projects in accordance with GAI’s high standards of project management.
• Managing and assisting with the development of the scope of services and cost estimates for Substation and P&C projects.
• Ability to manage competing priorities using sound engineering and financial judgment to determine optimal solutions.
• Must be flexible to handle shifting deadlines and scope changes.
• Must have resource management skills and the ability to identify project barriers and mitigate them without schedule impacts.
• Must be able to manage and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously and be able to work effectively under the pressure of deadlines and unexpected developments.
• Ability to work extended hours or after hours when required.
• Ability to create drawings utilizing 3D CAD software is preferred.
• A minimum of 6 years substation design experience is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work indoors in professional office settings.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing computer‑based tasks.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling office equipment.
• Visual acuity to read printed materials, digital screens, detailed documents, and perform detailed work.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching within the office environment. Ability to move between workstations and attend in‑person meetings.
• Ability to lift and carry office materials or equipment weighing up to 10‑20 pounds, with or without assistance.
• Adequate hearing to participate in conversations, phone calls, and virtual meetings.
• Ability to travel for meetings, training, or business purposes.

General Characteristics

• Applies broad knowledge of principles and practices in a specific practice area.
• Independently evaluates, selects, and adapts standard techniques, procedures, and criteria.
• Acquires general knowledge of principles and practices of related fields, and ability to function on multidisciplinary teams.
• Applies leadership and teamwork skills to effectively plan, execute, and manage scopes, schedules, and budgets to meet project stakeholder needs.

Minimum Years Of Experience

• 6+

Education

• B.S. Engineering or other technical degree

Certification/Licensure

• Driver’s License

Technical Responsibilities

• Supports design of complete project, system, component, or process.
• Frequently supports preparation of complete plans, specifications, and other project documents.
• Supports designs and conducts analyses and interprets test data.

Project and Task Management

• Assigns tasks to and directs other technical and nontechnical staff.
• Frequently plans and coordinates detailed aspects of the engineering work.
• Frequently prepares scopes, budgets, and schedules for assignments.
• Assists with proposals to provide professional services or obtain funding for engineering projects

Management Responsibility

• Receives general direction on key objectives. Receives guidance, when necessary, on unconventional/complex problems, direction on modified techniques, and new approaches on assignments with conflicting criteria.
• Assists with mentored experience to direct reports and junior staff through providing guidance, explaining professional responsibilities, and reviewing work products.
• Attends project meetings and presents specific aspects of engineering assignments.

Communication Skills

• Communicates effectively to both technical and nontechnical audiences.

Why GAI?

GAI offers skilled professionals like you an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy work location and scheduling flexibility; your choice of comprehensive, personalized benefits; a range of employee wellness programs and discounts; and more. Feel good about being part of a collaborative team that’s committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth.

Benefits To Working at GAI Include:

Competitive Pay & Recognition

• Market‑based, competitive compensation
• Performance‑driven recognition and development bonuses

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Company‑paid short‑term and long‑term disability
• Company‑paid life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources

Meaningful Work–Life Balance

• Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays
• Additional floating holiday—use it for what matters to you
• Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave

Growth, Learning & Financial Security

• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Support and rewards for professional development and certifications