North Dakota Substation Section Manager

HDR; Bismarck (ND); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR is seeking a Substation Section Manager in Bismarck, ND, to lead a high-performing team focused on power delivery. This role involves overseeing project operations, staffing, and quality while promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate should have over 10 years of experience, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to client satisfaction. A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering is preferred, along with a passion for operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in power delivery and substation projects.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• Strategic mindset with a passion for operational excellence.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and client satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage section operations including staffing and workload forecasting.
• Support project managers through proactive project reviews.
• Drive recruiting efforts and talent development.
• Promote work-sharing and resource optimization across teams.
• Administer performance reviews and support career growth.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Team-building

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

As Substation Section Manager, you’ll be responsible for the operational and technical leadership of a high-performing production team. You’ll oversee project delivery, staffing, quality, utilization, forecasting, and strategic growth—ensuring alignment with HDR’s operating goals and values.

You’ll collaborate closely with local, regional, and national leadership to drive excellence in project execution, client service, and team development. This role is pivotal to the success of HDR’s substation business class and offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of power delivery in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage section operations including staffing, workload forecasting, quality assurance, and safety.
• Support project managers through proactive project reviews and mentorship.
• Drive recruiting efforts and talent development to grow the section.
• Foster a culture of quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with marketing and client development teams to pursue new business opportunities.
• Promote work-sharing and resource optimization across teams and geographies.
• Administer performance reviews and support career growth for direct reports.
• Champion a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Provide technical leadership, client management, and project oversight as needed.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in power delivery and substation projects.
• Strong leadership and team‑building skills.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• Strategic mindset with a passion for operational excellence.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and client satisfaction.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering preferred.
• PE license.
• 5+ years of substation design experience.
• 2+ years of project management.
• Strong client and project management skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Some travel may be required.
• Preference will be given to candidates local to Bismarck or Fargo.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 10 years experience.
• Professional registration, license or certification may be required based on role.
• Strong communication and listening skills.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments.
• Good leadership and organizational skills.
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must.

Primary Location: United States—North Dakota—Bismarck.

Industry: Power. Schedule: Full-time. Employee Status: Regular. Business Class: Substation Engineering.

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest, and conviction records.