Substation Physical Designer

Job Locations US-NC-Charlotte | US-VA-Roanoke | US-GA-Atlanta | US-KS-Mission | US-VA-Richmond | US-TX-Houston
Job ID
2025-12141
Job Category
Power
Employment Status
Full-Time

GFT is seeking an experienced Substation Physical Designer to join our expanding Power Team.  This position is either remote or a hybrid position in either our Charlotte, NC or Roanoke, VA, offices. 

 

Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today’s diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here.  

 

What you'll be challenged to do:

 

This experienced Designer will be responsible for the physical design of high voltage substation projects up to 765kv.


In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

Generate designs and detailed engineering deliverables working under the supervision of lead engineer and project manager.
Utilize standard CAD tools to create 2D and 3D drawings.
Design and execution of high-voltage substations projects in the 4kV – 765kV range with an emphasis on project safety, cost, quality and reliability.
Develop physical aspects of the engineering design such as general arrangement, foundation, cable, & grounding plans, electrical assemblies, control house drawings, and all additional below and above grade drawings as required by the scope of work.
Complete basic engineering calculations related to design/engineering deliverables
Compile complete list of above and below grade materials for substation projects, and quote/order materials as necessary per contractual agreements with customers
Follow specific instructions of supervisor or engineers to perform the more complex design assignments requiring application of standard design principles and practices
Investigate new and existing substation technical drawings and conditions to ensure that installation and operations conform to industry standards and customer requirements
Travel to job sites for project assessment and data gathering as needed
Communicate and interact with clients.

What you'll bring to the firm:

  • 1+ years of relevant substation or general electrical T&D designing experience. 
  • Expertise in the use of computer-aided drafting tools such as AutoCAD or MicroStation
  • Thorough knowledge of the following codes, National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), National Electrical Code(NEC), Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers(IEEE), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and Design Guide for Rural Substations.
  • Knowledge of substation structures and equipment including connectors, insulators, switches, and all types of conductors and how they interconnect
  • Knowledge of substation phase spacing and electrical clearance requirements for live conductors, switch components, and bus supports.
  • Ability to apply project schedules to complete tasks in a timely manner and within project budget
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence
  • Ability to train and mentor less experienced designers/drafters
  • Ability to proficiently use Microsoft office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, etc.)

Compensation:

The salary range for this role is $60,000- $79,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

 

Featured Benefits: 

  • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
  • Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. 
  • Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
  • Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
  • Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
  • Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

 

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ 

 

GFT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law. 

 

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property of GFT.

 

Location:Charlotte, NC, Roanoke, VA, Remote

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Employment Status: Full-Time 

Internal Requisition ID:

Salary Range: $60,000- $79,000

Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

 

#LI-REMOTE

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