North Dakota Substation Section Manager

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising; Bismarck (ND); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR is seeking a Substation Section Manager in Bismarck, North Dakota. In this role, you will oversee a high-performing production team, ensuring project delivery and strategic growth. You will collaborate with various leadership levels to enhance project execution and client services.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in power delivery, with required qualifications including a relevant Bachelor's degree and at least 10 years of experience. Join HDR to help shape the future of energy delivery!

Qualifications

• Proven experience in power delivery and substation projects.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and client satisfaction.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage section operations including staffing and quality assurance.
• Support project managers through proactive project reviews.
• Drive recruiting efforts and talent development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic mindset

Team-building

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

We believe electricity powers modern life. As part of our Power sector, you’ll help shape how electricity is generated, transmitted and delivered as global energy demands grow. From massive data centers to modernizing transmission systems, our industry-recognized engineers and scientists have been at the forefront of grid transformation for more than a century. You’ll work side-by-side with these experts and contribute to reliable, resilient and sustainable power systems, helping communities thrive and industries expand. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to drive infrastructure forward, power innovation and leave your mark on our energy future.

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

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Primary Location

United States - North Dakota - Bismarck

Other Locations

United States - North Dakota - Fargo

Industry

Power

Schedule

Full-time

Employee Status

Regular

BusinessClass: Substation Engineering

Job Posting

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.

Ready to learn more? Let's work together to make great things possible.

We design solutions to the world's greatest challenges. We’re always looking for great talent to join our global teams.