Substation Design Engineer

AES Corporation; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

AES Ohio is seeking a Substation Design Engineer to advance the electric grid. You will design substations ranging from 12kV to 345kV, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and ensure designs meet IEEE/NERC standards. This role offers growth opportunities in a critical infrastructure domain within Ohio.

You'll work on capital projects, develop technical specifications, and support construction, maintenance, and commissioning activities to strengthen grid reliability.

Qualifications

• Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam completed.
• Knowledge of electrical substation equipment and power systems.
• Understanding of design principles and utility infrastructure.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel).

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed designs for electrical substations from 12kV to 345kV.
• Prepare one-line diagrams, protection schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Create engineering design packages per AES Ohio standards and IEEE/NERC rules.
• Produce technical specs and evaluate vendor proposals and procurement.
• Support field operations during construction, maintenance, and commissioning.
• Contribute to design standards and participate in storm restoration if needed.

Skills

Electrical design principles

Power systems knowledge

Team collaboration

Education

FE Exam

Tools

Bentley MicroStation

Job description

Are you ready to be part of a company that's not just talking about the future, but actively shaping it? Join The AES Corporation, the largest US-based global power company with a team of 8,300 employees across 12 countries. AES has been ranked #1 by BloombergNEF in renewable energy sales to corporations in the US and Americas for five consecutive years, providing electricity for millions of people worldwide. We are proud to foster a strong workplace culture, earning prominent positions in Great Place to Work rankings across the markets where we operate. AES was also named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the 13th consecutive year in 2026, highlighting our dedication to integrity, transparency, and responsible business practices. Our spirit of innovation continues to earn industry recognition. AES is the only seven-time winner of the Edison Electric Institute’s Edison Awards in the twenty-first century, a distinction honoring global leadership in advancing the electric power industry. If you're ready to be part of a company that's not just adapting to change, but driving it, AES is the place for you. We're not just building a more sustainable future, we're powering it.

At AES Ohio, we're powering the future by delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions to the communities we serve. We're looking for a Substation Design Engineer who is eager to make a meaningful impact, collaborate with experienced professionals, and grow their engineering career while helping shape the electric grid of tomorrow. Whether you're building on early-career experience or bringing established expertise, you'll have the opportunity to work on critical infrastructure projects, develop specialized technical skills, and contribute to the reliability of the energy system that supports thousands of customers every day.

Why Join AES Ohio?

Work on impactful projects that strengthen and modernize the electric grid. Collaborate with experienced engineers, construction teams, and industry experts. Gain exposure to high-voltage substation design and project lifecycle management. Access professional development opportunities, mentorship, and career growth pathways. Be part of a company that prioritizes safety, innovation, sustainability, and inclusion. Contribute to a purpose-driven organization committed to powering communities and advancing the energy transition.

What You’ll Do As a Substation Design Engineer,

you will support the planning, design, and delivery of electrical substation projects ranging from 12kV to 345kV. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop engineering solutions that are safe, reliable, and aligned with industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

Develop detailed designs for all or portions of electrical substations, including: Physical layouts One-line diagrams Protection and control schematics Wiring diagrams Create comprehensive engineering design packages in accordance with AES Ohio standards and applicable industry requirements, including IEEE and NERC standards. Prepare technical specifications for materials and services and support evaluation of vendor proposals and procurement activities. Partner with field operations and construction teams to provide technical guidance during construction, maintenance, and commissioning activities. Support the planning, design, and execution of substation capital projects. Contribute to the continuous improvement of engineering standards, processes, and design databases. Participate in storm restoration and emergency response efforts when needed, helping restore service to customers safely and efficiently.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with Bentley MicroStation or comparable CAD/design software. Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam. Knowledge of electrical substation equipment, including transformers, circuit breakers, relays, instrument transformers, disconnect switches, and related systems. Understanding of engineering design principles, power systems, and utility infrastructure. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook and Excel. Commitment to safety and the ability to incorporate safe design practices into all phases of engineering work.

Success in This Role

Enjoy solving complex technical challenges. Thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments. Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Are organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities. Have a strong desire to learn, grow, and contribute to the future of energy infrastructure.

AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer who is committed to building strength and delivering long-term sustainability through diversity and inclusion. Respecting all backgrounds, differences and perspectives enables us to improve the lives of our people, customers, suppliers, contractors, and the communities in which we live and work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, race, national origin, ethnicity, age, religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

E-Verify Notice:

AES will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Accelerating the future of energy, together Our people are our energy and have transformed AES into the type of energy company that the world needs today and in the future. Coming from all walks of life, our people share a passion for improving lives by advancing the energy sector through innovation, collaboration and action. We are working in an industry that requires new thinking and ways of working together to create solutions that are both economically and environmentally viable, not just one or the other.