Substation Design Engineer I: Growth & Impact

Burns & McDonnell; Brea (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Burns & McDonnell is seeking an Assistant Substation Engineer to assist in designing high-voltage substation projects from concept through completion. You will work under a licensed PE, help prepare design packages, perform electrical calculations, and support client presentations and field inspections.

The role emphasizes teamwork, attention to detail, and adherence to QA/QC standards. A ABET-accredited degree and FE eligibility are preferred; internship or EIT certification is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program required.
• Or, bachelor's degree in related Engineering Technology from an ABET accredited program and successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam required.
• Prior internship and/or related consulting experience preferred.
• Engineers in Training (EIT) Certification preferred.
• Basic knowledge in standard engineering techniques, principles and procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated critical thinking skills.
• Desire to work in a collaborative team environment.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Minimum of a 3.0 GPA strongly preferred.
• Involvement on campus or in the community preferred.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the design of substation projects from the conceptual phase through completion.
• Assists in the preparation and development of substation design packages including, but not limited to, physical arrangement above and below grade, protective relaying and control, electrical studies such as grounding and lightning analysis, and lighting and security.
• Assists in the development of substation calculations including, but not limited to, insulation, AC station service, DC systems and battery sizing, voltage drop, cable sizing, and conduit fill.
• Assists in the preparation of design sketches, cost estimates, equipment specifications, bill of materials, and other required deliverables.
• Applies basic knowledge of IEEE, NESC, and other industry and utility standards, guides, specifications and procedures.
• Assists with field inspections for substation facilities on public and private utility systems.
• Assists with research and compile project-related data as required by the project managers.
• Assists with client presentations, reports, and visualizations to demonstrate technical results and project status.
• Identifies, communicates and assists in resolving issues on projects as needed.
• Adheres to established project schedule to meet deadlines.
• Works closely with the project team to ensure deliverables and services are being provided to client’s satisfaction and that projects are following internal QA/QC guidelines.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Skills

Electrical engineering concepts

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

Attention to detail

Education

ABET-accredited BS degree in engineering

FE exam eligibility

Job description

Burns & McDonnell is seeking an Assistant Substation Engineer to assist in designing high-voltage substation projects from concept through completion. You will work under a licensed PE, help prepare design packages, perform electrical calculations, and support client presentations and field inspections.

The role emphasizes teamwork, attention to detail, and adherence to QA/QC standards. A ABET-accredited degree and FE eligibility are preferred; internship or EIT certification is a plus.