Lead Substation Designer

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Substation Designer for our Ann Arbor, MI office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges. Office-based or hybrid work is preferred, with flexibility for remote arrangements for qualified candidates.

This Opportunity

This position provides technical design and CADD support, guidance, and oversight to ensure the production of substation design drawings and specifications, including overseeing and generating CADD designs for new, upgraded, and retrofit substations across multi-site or multi-phase projects of moderate to large scale, scope, and complexity. The role generates and supports accurate and concise design-phase deliverables such as site plans, general arrangements, equipment layouts, grounding plans, conduit and raceway layouts, structural and foundation drawings, sections, details, bills of material, and technical documentation, ensuring work is delivered with a level of quality that meets or exceeds applicable industry standards, client and utility requirements, and WSP design practices for substation facilities.

Your Impact

• Collect, compile, and analyze data including survey information, geotechnical reports, vendor equipment drawings, electrical schematics, one-lines, client standards, and design criteria to support substation drafting and design activities for single- and multi-site projects.
• Use 2D and 3D computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software and work closely with engineers to resolve design details or discrepancies, preparing substation drawings that require a high degree of precision on projects of moderate to large scale, complexity, and/or scope.
• Follow established practices to provide technical design assistance and guidance that supports the proper fit, form, and function of substation equipment and systems, including foundations, structures, grounding, and raceway systems, in accordance with project standards and applicable codes.
• Act as a technical resource regarding work progress and problem resolution; may serve as the primary Drafting/Design Support resource on a substation project or assist in overseeing drafting activities for projects of moderate to large scope and complexity.
• Monitor and verify accuracy of drawings, quantities, and calculations; interpret contract plans and specifications; and recognize moderately complex substation design or constructability issues, escalating or resolving discrepancies as appropriate.
• Work independently or as part of a cross-functional project team, occasionally leading tasks and Drafting/Design Support staff on technical substation design assignments.
• Ensure plans adhere to client and utility standards, NESC, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
• Prepare multiple iterations of substation design drawings for internal quality control, interdisciplinary coordination, and engineer review.
• Monitor and oversee drafting and design plans to ensure quality control, consistency, and contract compliance; documenting work progress and issues throughout the project lifecycle.
• Work collaboratively with the engineer-of-record and other technical professionals on assigned substation project phases, design checks, and deliverables.
• Apply analytical techniques and design software to support larger-scale and more complex substation design challenges or to modify existing substation facilities in accordance with updated standards and project requirements.
• Engage in occasional coordination with clients, utilities, and contractors to support design reviews, drawing clarification, and project scheduling.
• May attend pre-construction, constructability, or design review meetings and assist in responding to contractor or client questions.
• Provide guidance and training to entry-level drafting and design support staff within the substation design discipline.
• Remain current in substation design practices, drafting standards, CADD tools, and utility requirements.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma.
• Minimum of 11 years of relevant post-education experience, including drafting and design support experience focused on substation or high-voltage utility infrastructure projects.
• Advanced knowledge of drafting and design support principles, practices, processes, and techniques related to substation design.
• Advanced knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and compliance practices relevant to substation facilities and utility projects.
• Strong ability to perform technical computations and calculations involving geometry, quantities, and layout considerations, with the ability to interpret plans and specifications.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to exercise sound judgment in evaluating technical and design-related situations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated self-leadership with attention to detail, results orientation, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic project environment.
• Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, work independently, and comply with company policies and procedures.
• Advanced proficiency with CADD platforms, technical documentation, office automation tools, spreadsheets, and design support software.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze data and drawings and arrive at effective, logical solutions.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in closely related discipline is preferred.

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