Substation Project Structural Engineer

Join to apply for the Substation Project Structural Engineer role at HDR
.

HDR is a leading engineering firm focused on powering modern life through innovative energy solutions. We welcome professionals who are committed to creating resilient, sustainable power systems and thrive in a collaborative, employee‑owned culture.

As a Substation Project Structural Engineer, you will design and analyze high‑voltage switchyard and substation components up to 500 kV, coordinating closely with Project Managers and multidisciplinary teams across multiple offices. Your work will contribute to reliable, resilient power infrastructure worldwide, while mentoring junior engineers and enhancing industry best practices.

• Execute detailed structural design of substation members—including rolled steel shapes, lattice steel framing, folded plate tubular shapes—calculations, detailing, and fabrication drawings.
• Design foundations (drilled piers, spread footings, driven piles, etc.) using industry‑standard software.
• Prepare and review construction specifications and material requirements.
• Assign tasks to EITs and provide technical guidance to non‑structural team members.
• Conduct quality checks and reviews of deliverables per HDR Quality Management System (QMS) standards.
• Collaborate with other engineers to develop and maintain structural standards.
• Mentor and train EITs and designers, working independently across multiple projects.
• Participate in project reviews and support cross‑location teams.
• Travel may be required.

• Experience in physical/outdoor design of high‑voltage switchyards and substations.
• Familiarity with NESC, NEC, IEEE, ANSI, ASCE‑113, and related standards.
• Proficiency with design software such as PLS‑Tower, Mathcad Prime, AutoCAD, Micro Station, STAAD, RISA, MFAD, L‑Pile, or equivalents.
• Minimum 5 years of technical design experience in high‑voltage substation projects.
• Knowledge of AISC‑360, ASCE‑7, ACI‑318, and other industry standards.
• Strong written and verbal communication, conceptual, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
• Professional engineering license (PE or P.Eng) recognized in the location of the position.
• Prior structural engineering experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, RISA, Staad, SAP, Tedds, RAM, ETABS, SAFE or similar.
• Experience with an architectural, engineering, or consulting firm.
• Commitment to employee‑owned culture.

Primary:
United States, North Carolina – Charlotte.

Full‑time, Regular – Substation Engineering.

HDR offers a comprehensive benefits package for full‑time regular positions, including medical, dental, vision, short and long‑term disability, life insurance, employee assistance, paid time off, parental leave, holidays, retirement savings with employer match, referral bonus, and tuition reimbursement. The targeted salary range for this position is $90,682 – $145,990, depending on skills, experience, education, and geographic location.

HDR is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are considered regardless of criminal history, arrest, or conviction records.