Substation BIM 3D Designer

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising; Boise (ID); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm seeks a talented Substation BIM 3D Designer in Boise, Idaho, to contribute to innovative energy solutions. The role involves performing 3D modeling and design for substation projects using AutoCAD and MicroStation, as well as developing project documentation. Candidates should have a technical degree or equivalent experience, with strong skills in 3D design and excellent communication abilities. This full-time position offers a chance to engage with a collaborative team dedicated to shaping the future of energy infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Technical degree or a minimum of 3 years related industry experience.
• Competency with 3D design software and document management infrastructure.
• Ability to make design and engineering decisions with minimal oversight.

Responsibilities

• Perform 3D modeling and design of substation projects.
• Develop design drawings and documents for projects.
• Work independently on simple projects with little guidance.

Skills

3D AutoCAD

MicroStation

CADD design

Electrical utility design

Communication skills

Education

Associate’s Degree in drafting or Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Technology

Tools

3D Coordination 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?

Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story

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.

HDR Engineering is looking for a Substation Building Information Modeling (BIM) 3D Designer to join our growing and nationally ranked team of Power Delivery professionals in our Substation group.

The successful candidate will be a part of a team that provides 3D designer support for large and small scale substation engineering projects. This is an excellent growth opportunity for a self‑directed individual who wants to learn and take on new challenges.

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform 3D modeling and design of Substation projects, utilizing 3D AutoCAD and MicroStation software.
• Perform substation design tasks, CADD design, develop design drawings and documents, prepare material lists, and other tasks for simple to moderately complex projects.
• Perform most design responsibilities with assistance, guidance, and input from engineers on simple to moderately complex projects.
• Work independently with little to no guidance on simple projects, and will work independently while performing CAD work and functions.
• Other duties include, but are not limited to interpreting and incorporating vendor information into design deliverables, performing field reviews and walk‑downs at client facilities, and applying client standards related to the work.

Preferred Qualifications

• An Associate’s Degree in drafting or Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Technology, or a high school diploma and 3 or more years drafting coursework or equivalent technical experience, or combination of education and relevant experience.
• 3+ years of Substation design experience.
• Advanced knowledge of 2D and 3D AutoCAD and MicroStation software and raster CAD.
• Electrical utility or similar design experience preferred.
• Preference given to candidates in the local area.
• Experience in both the Protection and Control (Indoor) and Physical (Outdoor) aspects of High Voltage (HV) Substation design.
• Experience with substation design including One‑Line Diagrams, General Arrangements Sections, Material Lists (Bill of Materials/BOM), Lightning Stroke Shielding Plans, Conduit, Electrical Connection & Grounding Plans & Details, Control Building Equipment, Cable Tray, & Lighting Plans, Foundation Plans, Relay and Control Systems Schematics and Wiring Diagrams.
• Independently make design and engineering decisions for low to moderately complex projects with minimal oversight.
• Ability to work directly with clients and strong communication skills.

Required Qualifications

• Technical degree or a minimum of 3 years related industry experience.
• Technically qualified with 3D design software and document management infrastructure.
• Competency of Microsoft Office products and communication tools.
• Experience with 3D Coordination tools.
• Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and organizational traits are essential.
• Intermediate understanding of engineering or architectural concepts.

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. Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Primary Location

Other Locations

Industry: Power

Schedule: Full-time

Employee Status: Regular

Business Class: Substation Engineering

Job Posting: Mar 18, 2026

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity.

We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employee. 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’realways looking for great talent to join our global teams.