About Us

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists. That's why we believe diversity is our greatest strength. HDR is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer.

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We believe that the way we work can add meaning and value to the world. That ideas inspire positive change. That coloring outside the lines can illuminate fresh perspectives. And that small details yield important realizations. Above all, we believe that collaboration is the best way forward

Primary Responsibilities

You will be part of a rapidly growing team working on a variety of exciting projects that will test your engineering skills and set you on a path for career growth. As an integral part of a team, you will prepare engineering designs on substation projects ranging in scale from simple device replacements to large greenfield substation sites. You'll be given the flexibility and freedom to seek and acquire knowledge and experience in both the Protection and Control and Physical aspects of high-voltage substation design. This is an excellent growth opportunity for a self-directed individual who is eager to learn and take on new challenges.

The primary duties of the Senior Substation Engineer include:

• Responsible for knowledge and execution of the technical aspects and deliverables of projects assigned and is an experienced, competent engineer who generally understands and can complete all technical requirements of projects of basic to moderate complexity.
• Develop a partnership with the PM. Whereas the PM is responsible for scope, schedule, budget, and client management - the SE is responsible for technical execution of the project.
• Develop and implement a project execution plan for the technical aspect of projects.
• Assign project tasks and provide technical guidance to project team members.
• Support the technical aspects of scope, schedule, and budget - including proposal development, work breakdown structure development and implementation, progress assessment, risk assessment/mitigation, change management, and schedule management.
• Coordinate and perform quality checks and reviews for all project deliverables per the HDR Quality Management Systems (QMS) requirements, processes, and procedures to deliver a world-class quality product to the client. Perform quality checks and reviews of projects from other teams on an as-needed basis.
• Work independently and also direct, mentor, and train Electrical Engineers, Graduate Engineers, and Drafters/Designers.
• Lead multiple projects concurrently, utilizing teams in different locations.
• Work with senior engineers and technical leaders to identify and develop specific technical expertise and attend training and seminars focused on further development and understanding of complex concepts related to your discipline.
• Assist with developing technical papers and/or presentations that showcase HDR's technical capabilities at industry conferences or other events.
• Perform other duties as needed

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• PE required.
• A minimum of 10 years of technical design experience with high voltage electrical switchyard and substation projects of varying complexity up to 765kV preferred, including at a minimum, conceptual knowledge of physical, electrical, civil, and structural design components as well as knowledge of IEC, IEEE, ANSI, and other applicable design and equipment standards.
• Specific experience performing aspects associated with substation design including substation layouts, plans, sections and details, grounding, lightning protection, control building arrangements, conduit plans and details, auxiliary AC/DC power systems, and associated bills of material.
• Strong computer skills, AutoCAD, Microstation, Microsoft Office and electrical design software (e.g., CDEGS).
• Prior experience doing distribution systems, substation, and power facilities design and engineering is required.
• Previous experience with an architectural/engineering or engineering consulting firm desired.
• Some travel may be required.
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must
• Due to client contract requirements: US Citizenship - US naturalizes citizen (foreign born) required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with an Electrical emphasis.
• Preference will be given candidates local to the Irvine, CA area.
• Prior experience consulting or working for an electric utility considered a plus.

Why HDR

At HDR, we know work isn't only about who you work for it's also about what you do and how you do it. Led by the strength of our values and a culture shaped by employee ownership, we network with each other, build on each other's contributions, and collaborate together to make great things possible. When you join HDR, we give you license to do the same. We help you take charge of your career, giving you multiple growth opportunities along the way.