Senior Substation Physical Designer

Description

The Designer will be responsible for the physical design of high‑voltage substation projects up to 765 kV, generating detailed engineering deliverables under the guidance of lead engineers and project managers. Duties include creating 2D and 3D CAD drawings, performing quality reviews, developing general arrangement, foundation, cable, grounding, and control‑house plans, conducting basic engineering calculations, compiling material lists, and traveling to site for data collection and client interaction.

• Design high‑voltage substations (4 kV‑765 kV) including layouts, foundations, cable, grounding, control house, and above/below‑grade drawings.
• Produce 2D/3D CAD models using AutoCAD or MicroStation and perform peer quality reviews.
• Perform engineering calculations, compile material take‑offs, and coordinate quotations/orders.
• Travel to sites for assessments, gather data, and liaise with clients.
• Mentor junior designers and draft routine reports and correspondence.

Requirements

GFT is seeking an experienced Senior Substation Physical Designer to join its expanding Power Team. The role can be performed remotely or in a hybrid setting at the Charlotte, NC or Roanoke, VA offices.

Candidates must have at least five years of substation or electrical transmission and distribution design experience and be proficient with AutoCAD or MicroStation and Microsoft Office. A thorough understanding of NESC, NEC, IEEE, ANSI standards and the Design Guide for Rural Substations, as well as knowledge of substation equipment, phase spacing, and clearance requirements, is required. Additional expectations include schedule and budget adherence, report writing, and the ability to mentor junior staff.

• Minimum 5 years substation/T&D design experience; proficient with CAD and MS Office.
• Knowledge of NESC, NEC, IEEE, ANSI, and Rural Substation Design Guide; understanding of substation equipment, phase spacing, and clearance requirements.
• Ability to meet project schedules, budgets, and safety standards.

Benefits

Compensation ranges from $75,000 to $108,000, depending on experience and location, and includes a hybrid work environment. GFT offers a comprehensive benefits package that features medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, a tax‑deferred 401(k), generous PTO, tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, parental leave, pet insurance, and incentive compensation. The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values professional development and innovative infrastructure solutions.

• Salary $75,000–$108,000 based on experience and location; hybrid work option.
• Comprehensive benefits: medical/dental/vision, 401(k), PTO, tuition reimbursement, wellness, parental leave, pet insurance, and incentive compensation.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance