Substation Project Engineer

WSP offers a comprehensive benefits package and supports a hybrid work arrangement in Lake Oswego, Oregon. This Substation Project Engineer role focuses on technical guidance, design, due diligence, and construction of substations and related systems, with an emphasis on quality, safety, and professional growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement savings
• Paid sick leave
• Paid vacation
• Paid parental leave
• Paid time off for bereavement
• Paid time off for voting
• Paid attendance at naturalization proceedings

Responsibilities

• Provide technical guidance for multi-site due diligence, investigation, remediation, permitting, design, development, and construction of utility, industrial, and commercial projects across public and private sectors
• Assist with research, design, concept development, and construction of transmission and distribution substations, power distribution, power regulation, renewable energy, and protection and control systems in varied contexts
• Document and substantiate reports on materials, installations, components, and construction specifications
• Deliver work that meets or exceeds industry standards for design, safety, and functionality
• Define methods for collecting and analyzing data related to substation components, procurement packaging, detailed design processes, and compliance with IEEE, NESC, and NERC standards
• Review third party design documents, procurement lists, and project plans
• Perform complex electrical engineering work including single line and three line diagrams, general arrangement, substation layout and bus arrangement, grounding, and lightning protection
• Incorporate future-ready techniques and design requirements with equipment sizing, cabling, panel design, and conduit/trenching strategies to ensure safety and functionality
• Support senior engineers with component research and field equipment applications
• Verify site characteristics and provide technical input on design, testing, maintenance, and construction procedures
• Develop electrical calculations for loads, equipment sizing, grounding, short-circuit studies, protective device coordination, one-line diagrams, protective relaying, and switchyard layouts
• Prepare plans, specifications, and cost estimates; craft construction safety and phasing plans; update layout plans in coordination with owners, disciplines, sub-consultants, and clients
• Work independently or within cross-functional teams to execute multiple projects, layout installations, and ensure adherence to specifications and regulatory documentation
• Produce data visualizations, reports, sketches, calculations, and illustrations for interpretation and presentation
• Maintain high quality and responsiveness to client requirements in line with WSP standards
• Provide guidance and training to entry-level engineers
• Prepare technical reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations
• Assist with field investigations and risk mitigation planning
• Develop and implement site Health and Safety Plans (HASPs)
• Ensure compliance with regulatory data integrity, documentation, training, and retention requirements
• Engage with regulatory agencies, subcontractors, and clients in a professional manner
• Stay current with the latest electrical engineering techniques and practices
• Collaborate with other engineers and planners on federally, state, regional, and locally funded projects
• Exercise ethical decision-making regarding company funds and resources and adhere to WSP policies and code of conduct
• Perform additional responsibilities as needed by business requirements

Technologies

• CADD
• Aspen
• CAPE
• ETAP
• AutoCADD electrical
• Spreadsheets

Requirements

• 5 to 7 years of relevant post-education experience as an electrical engineer delivering design for large capital projects
• Engineering Intern, Engineer in Training, or equivalent certification
• Experience with Operations and project controls for reporting and proposal development
• Proficient knowledge of electrical engineering principles, design/build processes, permitting, and related project issues
• Experience with infrastructure planning, design, and construction management, including rehabilitation and new design projects
• Working knowledge of engineering and electrical construction laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping
• Ability to perform technical computations and interpret plans and specifications against regulations
• Project management experience with small to mid-size projects, including tracking hours and expenses
• Ability to plan and conduct inspections and investigations of construction and design activities, applying applicable policies
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for engineering and non-engineering audiences
• Self-driven with attention to detail, multitasking, and prioritization in a dynamic environment
• Ability to work independently and mentor junior team members, with strict QA/QC adherence
• Proficiency in technical writing, office software, and discipline-specific design tools (CADD, Aspen, CAPE, ETAP, AutoCADD electrical, spreadsheets)
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to apply knowledge to testing results and data analyses
• Ability to guide field teams and ensure safe, efficient task completion
• Proven commitment to workplace safety and adherence to company policies
• Willingness to work schedules that may extend beyond a standard workweek
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project needs