Senior Substation Physical Designer

WSP in the U.S.; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Retirement savings

Job summary

WSP in the U.S. is looking for a Senior Substation Physical Designer to join our Columbus team. You will provide technical design and CADD support for various power delivery projects, ensuring high quality and compliance with industry standards.

The ideal candidate will have at least 9 years of relevant experience, proficiency in 3D CAD software, and strong communication skills. In return, we offer a comprehensive benefits package and a flexible workplace model.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 9 years of relevant experience in drafting and design support.
• Experience with discipline-specific design software.
• Proficient in technical writing and software applications.

Responsibilities

• Provide design and CADD support to engineers and project managers.
• Assist with drafting tasks for substation projects.
• Generate accurate design phase deliverables.

Skills

CADD support

3D CAD software

Technical writing

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma

Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline

Tools

AutoCAD

MicroStation

Inventor

Job description

Job Description

WSP is initiating a search for a Senior Substation Physical Designer for our Columbus, OH office. Join our Power Delivery Substation Team to help meet client objectives and solve challenges.

WSP brings global expertise in power delivery, power generation, and program management—anchored by the acquisition of POWER Engineers, Inc. and the recent addition of TRC Companies. We partner with clients to shape how energy systems evolve around the world.

This Opportunity

Provides technical design and CADD support to engineers and project managers to produce designs for planning, transportation, infrastructure, and technical services. Generates accurate and concise design phase deliverables including reports, memoranda, manuals, plans, profiles, models, sections, details, specifications, and material lists. Ensures quality meets or exceeds industry standards.

Your Impact

• Collect, compile, and analyze data from the physical work site, surveys, structural concepts, blueprints, schematics, and other matrices to support drafting and design activities.
• Assist with drafting tasks for substation projects, including physical and civil layout drawings, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams, ensuring accuracy and compliance with client standards.
• Use 3D CAD software—such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Inventor—to prepare detailed substation drawings, layouts, equipment arrangements, grounding plans, and electrical connections.
• Follow standard practices to provide technical design assistance and guidance that accounts for proper illustration, fit, form, and function using geometric dimensioning, tolerance, and quantity calculations.
• Act as consultant regarding work progress and problem resolution; may serve as the sole Drafting/Design Support resource or oversee activities for projects of moderate scope.
• Verify accuracy of calculations, design, change orders, and contract plans, escalating or resolving any differences or errors.
• Work with cross‑functional teams to execute project work.
• Assure plans adhere to city code, state and federal regulations.
• Prepare multiple versions of designs for review by engineer.
• Monitor drafting and design plans to ensure quality control and contract compliance, documenting progress and issues.
• Collaborate with the engineer‑in‑charge and other technical professionals on assigned project phases.
• Apply analytical techniques to solve intricate engineering issues or modify existing designs per standards.
• Engage in occasional contact with client and contractor personnel to coordinate drafting and design support reviews.
• Provide guidance and training to entry‑level drafting and design support staff.
• Remain current in latest drafting and design support knowledge, techniques, and practices.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision‑making regarding company resources and conduct, adhering to WSP’s Code of Conduct.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

High School Diploma and ≥9 years of relevant post‑education experience with drafting and design support.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma.
• Minimum of 9 years of relevant post‑education experience in the discipline with prior drafting and design support experience.
• Experience with discipline‑specific design software (e.g., AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, MicroStation, Inventor).
• 3D parametric modeling experience using Inventor, SolidWorks, or similar.
• Well‑defined knowledge of drafting and design support principles, practices, and methods.
• Well‑defined knowledge of relevant codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record‑keeping requirements.
• Defined ability to make technical computations and calculations involving geometry and mathematics, and apply standards.
• Analytical mindset with sound judgement in evaluating situations.
• Competent interpersonal and communication skills, expressing ideas effectively to technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Proficient self‑leadership with attention to detail, accuracy, multi‑tasking, and prioritization.
• Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks, follow instruction, work independently, and comply with company policies.
• Highly proficient in technical writing, office automation, software, and spreadsheets.
• Developed critical thinking and problem‑solving skills to apply technical knowledge to data analysis and solutions.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and adherence to WSP’s health, safety, drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project‑specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a closely related discipline.
• Essential professional licensure or certification.

About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, a leading global engineering and professional services firm. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with clients to help communities prosper.

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model and offers a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings.

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status. The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES: WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation.