Physical Designer; Substation

Physical Designer (Substation) – GFT

Join GFT as a Physical Substation Designer. We are hiring in locations such as Chicago, IL;
St. Louis, MO;
Pittsburgh, PA;
Phoenix, AZ;
Marlin, NJ;
Charlotte, NC;
Roanoke, VA, or fully remote in the United States.

As a member of our power team you will be responsible for the physical design of high‑voltage substation projects through 500 kV. You will develop detailed engineering deliverables, perform calculations, and use CAD tools to create drawings. You will also inspect installations, oversee production efforts, and support project completion on time and within budget.

• Design and execution of high‑voltage substations (34.5 kV–500 kV) with emphasis on safety, cost, quality, and reliability.
• Generate detailed engineering documents under the supervision of a lead engineer.
• Detail physical aspects such as general arrangement, elevation, grounding, and conduit drawings.
• Complete basic engineering calculations and construct manufacturing, construction, and installation specifications.
• Use CAD tools to create drawings and related deliverables.
• Inspect completed installations to ensure conformity to design and equipment specifications.
• Oversee project production to assure satisfactory, on‑time, and on‑budget delivery.
• Prepare and study technical drawings and specifications of electrical systems.
• Travel to job sites for assessment and data gathering as needed.

• 3+ years of relevant substation or general electrical T&D design experience.
• Expertise in computer‑aided drafting tools such as AutoCAD or Micro Station.
• Knowledge of NESC, NEC, IEEE, ANSI, and Design Guide for Rural Substations.
• Ability to review and coordinate vendor submittals.
• Familiarity with substation phase spacing, electrical clearance, and packing requirements.
• Experience developing and reviewing construction documents (layouts, elevations, details, grounding plans).
• Ability to create control enclosure layout, cable tray layout, and conduit drawings.
• Knowledge of substation voltages and MHV, HV, EHV.
• Skill in applying project schedules to meet deadlines and budget.
• Proficiency in sketching single line diagrams and other design documents.
• Strong written reports and correspondence skills.

• Experience in the energy industry or a consulting services environment.
• Skill in 3D modeling.

GFT is a privately held AEC firm that innovates where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We measure success by the strength of our relationships and are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics.

Remote or any of the following offices:
Chicago, IL;
St. Louis, MO;
Pittsburgh, PA;
Phoenix, AZ;
Marlin, NJ;
Charlotte, NC;
Roanoke, VA.

Salary Range: $65,000 – $80,000 (dependent on experience and geographic location).