Physical Designer; Substation

Physical Substation Designer – Remote or one of the following offices:
Chicago, IL;
St. Louis, MO;
Pittsburgh, PA;
Phoenix, AZ;
Marlon, NJ;
Charlotte, NC;
Roanoke, VA.

Join GFT’s power team to design high voltage substation projects through 500 kV, contributing to reliable, sustainable energy infrastructure.

• Design and execute high‑voltage substation projects (34.5 kV – 500 kV) with a focus on safety, cost, quality, and reliability.
• Generate detailed engineering deliverables under a lead engineer’s supervision.
• Detail physical design aspects: general arrangement, elevation, grounding, and conduit drawings.
• Perform basic engineering calculations and oversee manufacturing, construction, and installation standards.
• Inspect installations and ensure compliance with design specifications and operational safety standards.
• Assume project production oversight to meet deadlines and budget constraints.
• Prepare and review technical drawings and specifications for electrical systems.
• Travel to job sites for assessment and data gathering as needed.

• 3+ years of substation or general electrical T & D design experience.
• Proficiency with CAD tools such as AutoCAD or Micro Station.
• Knowledge of NESC, NEC, IEEE, ANSI and Design Guide for Rural Substations.
• Ability to review vendor submittals and coordinate for design compliance.
• Understanding of substation phase spacing, electrical clearance, and component interconnects.
• Capability to develop complete construction documents (layouts, elevations, details, grounding plans, trench & conduit plans, single‑line diagrams, etc.) independently.
• Experience with substation ducts, conduit, cable tray, control enclosure layout.
• Ability to interpret engineering studies and apply them to design.
• Project scheduling and budget management skills.
• Strong written communication for routine reports and correspondence.

• Experience in the energy industry or consulting services.
• Skilled in 3‑D modeling.

GFT is a privately held AEC firm focused on infrastructure intersections of transportation, water, power, and buildings. We support over 5,000 industry professionals and emphasize partnerships, innovation, and community impact.

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

California applicants

Applicants in Los Angeles County, San Francisco, or California are considered in accordance with applicable Fair Chance ordinances.

Location Options

Remote or offices:
Chicago, IL;
St. Louis, MO;
Pittsburgh, PA;
Phoenix, AZ;
Marlon, NJ;
Charlotte, NC;
Roanoke, VA.

Core Business Hours
: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Employment Status
:
Full‑Time

Internal Requisition : (provided)

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