What are the responsibilities and job description for the Substation Engineer position at Actalent?
Substation Engineer (Staff / Sr Level)
Location: Any U.S. Office | Nationwide Opportunities
Design the backbone of the power grid.
We’re seeking a Staff or Sr Substation Engineer to help shape the future of high‑voltage power infrastructure. In this role, you’ll contribute to some of the most complex and impactful substation projects in the industry—up to 765kV—working alongside experienced engineers, project managers, and utility clients across the country.
This is an opportunity to be part of a firm that empowers engineers, invests heavily in employee growth, and is known for technically challenging work, long‑term client partnerships, and a strong culture of collaboration and integrity.
What You’ll Do
As a Substation Engineer, you’ll support projects from early concept through construction, applying sound engineering judgment and industry standards to deliver high‑quality solutions.
Core Responsibilities
- Develop complete substation design packages, including:
- Above‑ and below‑grade physical arrangements
- Protective relaying and control systems
- Grounding, lightning, lighting, and security designs
- Perform detailed substation calculations, including:
- Insulation coordination
- AC station service
- DC systems and battery sizing
- Voltage drop, cable sizing, and conduit fill
- Prepare design sketches, equipment specifications, cost estimates, bills of materials, and technical reports
- Apply and interpret IEEE, NESC, and utility standards throughout design efforts
- Support field inspections and construction activities for public and private utility systems
- Collaborate with project managers to maintain schedules, budgets, and quality objectives
- Participate in design reviews and QA/QC processes
- Support client meetings, presentations, and proposal efforts
- Identify and proactively resolve technical and coordination challenges
You’ll typically manage 2–3 projects at a time, giving you variety while allowing you to build depth and technical ownership.
What We’re Looking For
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related ABET‑accredited program
- 3 years of substation engineering experience (consulting experience preferred)
- Hands‑on experience with high‑voltage systems up to 765kV
- Working knowledge of IEEE, NESC, and industry standards
- Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Professional Engineer (PE) license
- Engineer‑in‑Training (EIT) certification
- Experience supporting client‑facing design efforts
- Leadership mindset with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
Why Engineers Build Long‑Term Careers Here
- Employee‑owned culture: Decisions are made with long‑term people and project success in mind, not short‑term results
- Complex, high‑impact projects: Work on large‑scale, technically challenging substations for major utilities across North America
- Nationwide flexibility: Work from any U.S. office location, with strong local support and national collaboration
- Engineer‑driven environment: Technical excellence, mentorship, and professional development are top priorities
- Stability and growth: A strong project backlog, diverse clients, and consistent investment in people and technology
If you’re a substation engineer who wants responsibility, technical challenge, and a clear path for growth—while working alongside people who value quality and teamwork—this role offers a compelling next step.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Minneapolis, MN.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $53.00 - $58.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
This is a hybrid position in Minneapolis,MN.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 20, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
- Hiring diverse talent
- Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
- Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
- Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
Salary : $53 - $58