Job Description

Location(s)

Charlotte, NC

Compensation

$125,000 – $150,000 annually

The Substation Engineer is responsible for the design, engineering, and coordination of high-voltage substations and interconnection facilities supporting utility-scale renewable energy projects. This role ensures safe, reliable, and code-compliant delivery of substations from conceptual design through commissioning, while collaborating with cross-functional teams and utilities to support successful project execution.

Job Function

• Lead engineering and design of substations (34.5kV–500kV) for solar PV and BESS projects
• Develop and review one-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, and protection & control schematics
• Perform or oversee load flow, short circuit, and grounding studies
• Conduct equipment sizing for transformers, breakers, switchgear, and buswork
• Coordinate interconnection design with utility and ISO/RTO standards (PJM, ERCOT, MISO)
• Interface with utilities for interconnection agreements, studies, and approvals
• Support procurement by developing specifications and evaluating vendor bids
• Provide engineering support during construction, including RFIs and field issue resolution
• Participate in the commissioning and testing of substation equipment
• Ensure compliance with IEEE, NEC, NESC, and ANSI standards
• Collaborate with civil, structural, transmission, and SCADA teams

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
• 5–10+ years of experience in substation design
• Experience with utility-scale renewable energy projects (solar and/or BESS preferred)

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of high-voltage substation design and protection systems
• Familiarity with interconnection processes and grid compliance
• Experience with ETAP, SKM, PSCAD, AutoCAD, or MicroStation
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or ability to obtain
• Expertise in protection & control design and relay coordination
• Knowledge of grounding, lightning protection, and layout design
• Understanding of utility interconnection standards and grid codes
• Experience with utilities or ISOs (PJM, ERCOT, CAISO preferred)
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Appealing Facts About Living in Charlotte, NC

• Major U.S. financial hub with a growing energy sector
• Affordable cost of living compared to major metro areas
• Close proximity to mountains and beaches
• Vibrant Uptown with dining, sports, and culture
• Mild climate with four seasons

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Global Talent Resources, Inc. (GTR) is a power industry recruiting firm specializing in substation, transmission, and distribution careers. With 15+ years of experience, we connect engineering and leadership professionals to top roles with leading utilities, cooperatives, EPCs, and consulting firms nationwide.

Many opportunities aren’t listed publicly. Contact the GTR team for insider access, expert guidance, and the next step in your electric utility career.