Substation Engineer 1 (Entry Level) - Grid (Summer 2027)
The Substation Engineer role involves working on design teams for high voltage and extra-high voltage substations and transmission systems, applying engineering principles to develop technical plans and specifications. This entry-level position emphasizes the use of modern tools including automation and AI to enhance design workflows, with opportunities for client interaction, site visits, and a hybrid work schedule offering flexibility.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This opportunity is for an entry-level Substation Engineer based in Warrenville, IL. As a Substation Engineer (Entry Level) you will join project teams designing high-voltage and extra-high-voltage substations and transmission systems. Expect a mix of office, collaboration, and occasional field visits.
- Support design and specification development for electrical power equipment and related installation services
- Assist with power transmission designs and production of technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and 3D models
- Prepare and support procurement specifications for major electrical equipment and vendor coordination
- Participate in design reviews with clients and vendors; perform field verification and construction coordination as needed
- Use data, automation, and modern tools (including agentic AI where appropriate) to streamline workflows and reduce rework
- Contribute to documentation, design checks, and reporting; verify technical results with sound engineering judgment
What We’re Looking For (Minimum Qualifications)
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering required — preferred majors: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering
- Understanding of practical electrical engineering applications, systems, techniques, and procedures
- Knowledge of design techniques and principles for technical plans and the ability to visualize parts in 3D
- Coursework or experience that includes coding, 3D modeling/design, or exposure to agentic AI
- Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- U.S. work authorization required — confidential client does not sponsor for this role
Preferred / Nice-to-Have
- BSEE, MSEE, or equivalent degree from an ABET-accredited program
- Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam completion and Engineer-in-Training designation
- Internship or co-op experience in engineering or substation/transmission design
- Familiarity with applying or developing AI/automation solutions for engineering tasks
- Programming/scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations and reporting
Work Arrangement & Location
- Hybrid work arrangement: typically three days per week in the office and two days remote
- Position based in Warrenville, IL; occasional travel to client/vendor offices and project sites is possible
- Relocation assistance may be available depending on candidate location
Compensation & Benefits
- Compensation Range (base): $62,998 - $90,586 per year
- Estimated midpoint: approximate market estimate shown on listing
- Benefits package may include:
- Medical, dental, and vision plans
- Life & accident insurance, and disability coverage
- 401(k) and pre-tax commuter accounts
- Paid time off (vacation, holidays, parental leave, bereavement, sick time)
- Employee assistance program, tuition assistance, and professional licensure bonuses
- Employee referral bonus and other voluntary benefits
About the Industry
This role is within Engineering, focused on power delivery: transmission and substation systems, grid interconnection, and related power-plant services. You’ll be part of technical teams delivering designs for major electrical infrastructure projects.
Important Application Notes
- Confidential Client does not sponsor U.S. work authorization for this position.
- Applicants may be asked to demonstrate technical problem-solving, software familiarity, and examples of teamwork or project work during interviews.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range