Design Manager, Electrical Planning and Design Engineering

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Electrical Planning and Design Engineering Company: National Grid Location: Syracuse, NY, USA Job Type: Full-Time Category: Engineering Management / Design Operations Date Posted: May 01, 2026 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and direct the Substation Electrical Design group, ensuring high-quality substation designs for capital projects.
• Manage design resources, prioritizing work and allocating them effectively to meet project milestones and customer needs.
• Provide technical support and guidance to a team of unionized designers and drafting technicians, fostering professional development.
• Oversee the technical review and approval of engineering drawings, manufacturer drawings, and equipment specifications for substation capital projects.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of National Grid's Substation Engineering and Design philosophy, standards, and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Substation Engineering & Design department, indicating a focus on the operational and infrastructural aspects of energy delivery. The emphasis on managing unionized teams and adhering to specific labor agreements suggests a need for strong interpersonal and negotiation skills in addition to technical and managerial expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performance team of substation designers and drafting technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
• Prioritize workload and strategically allocate design resources to ensure timely delivery of project milestones and alignment with customer expectations.
• Provide comprehensive technical support for new and existing substation construction projects, including the meticulous review and approval of all engineering drawings, manufacturer submittals, and equipment specifications.
• Contribute to the development, refinement, and implementation of National Grid's Substation Engineering and Design philosophy, standards, and procedures, proactively identifying and mitigating risks to ensure compliance with all relevant standards and regulatory requirements.
• Take ownership of the Substation Engineering & Design capital work plan, diligently monitoring and reporting on the performance of all related projects to ensure efficiency and adherence to budget and schedule.
• Offer critical technical support and expertise to cross-functional departments, including Operations, Planning, Project Management, and other Engineering teams as required, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Ensure strict adherence to and implementation of the terms outlined in the existing Local Union 97 Labor Agreement, fostering positive labor relations.
• Proactively resolve complex technical issues that emerge throughout the various project phases of Substation Engineering & Design.
• Operate effectively within a Project Managed team environment, enhancing team performance through consistent technical guidance, clear communication of expectations, and effective delegation of assignments.
• Undertake other assigned duties as required to support the overall objectives of the Substation Engineering & Design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a blend of technical oversight, team management, and project execution. The emphasis on "standard designs and digital tools" suggests a need for process standardization and adoption of new technologies within the design function. Managing union team members is a critical aspect requiring specific experience and communication skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from an ABET-accredited institution is required.
• A Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology from an ABET-accredited institution is preferred.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of professional development in an engineering and design field is mandatory.
• Demonstrated experience in managing engineering and design teams, with a focus on substation projects.
• Experience with power systems and substation design principles.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, essential for effective team leadership and stakeholder engagement.
• High level of personal initiative and the ability to interact positively and collaboratively with internal personnel, external contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Strong leadership capabilities, including the ability to direct, supervise, coach, develop, mentor, and train staff effectively.
• Proven ability to gain and apply knowledge of National Grid's operational policies, procedures, and decision-making authorities.
• Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record that complies with National Grid's Safe Driver Policy.
• Proficiency in technical drawing review and approval processes for complex electrical systems.
• Experience in resource allocation and workload prioritization for engineering teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Experience with project management and collaboration software such as Procore and ProjectWise.
• Knowledge of SAP for relevant operational and project management functions.
• Familiarity with engineering economics, civil engineering principles, environmental regulations, purchasing processes, and legal frameworks relevant to infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of industry standards including IEEE/ANSI Standards, NESC (National Electrical Safety Code), and National Electrical Code (NEC) as applicable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an Associate's degree with a Bachelor's as preferred, along with 10+ years of experience, suggests this role values practical, hands-on engineering experience and leadership development over a purely academic path. The specific mention of Union 97 Labor Agreement implies a need for experience or a strong willingness to learn and adhere to unionized work environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully managing teams responsible for the design and engineering of electrical substations, showcasing successful project delivery.
• Provide examples of implemented process improvements or standardizations within design workflows that led to increased efficiency, reduced errors, or cost savings.
• Showcase experience with digital design tools and their implementation, highlighting how these tools enhanced team productivity or design quality.
• Include case studies or project summaries that illustrate your role in technical issue resolution and successful stakeholder management during design phases.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing or contributing to the creation of engineering design standards, procedures, or philosophies.
• Examples of how you have monitored and reported on the performance of design projects, including metrics used and reporting structures.
• Documentation or description of your approach to ensuring compliance with technical standards and regulatory requirements within design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly requested, a strong portfolio for this role would emphasize leadership in design process optimization, team development within an engineering context, and successful navigation of complex technical and regulatory landscapes. Demonstrating experience with unionized teams and cross-functional collaboration would be highly advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $127,000 - $149,000 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision) for employees and their families.
• Retirement savings plan, likely a 401(k) with company match, to support long-term financial planning.
• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays, to promote work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training programs, certifications, and continuing education relevant to engineering and management.
• Life insurance and disability coverage to provide financial security.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.
• Employee assistance programs offering confidential support for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, likely 40 hours per week.
• Hybrid work arrangement requiring 2-3 days in the Syracuse, NY office per week.
• Flexibility may be available, but core hours will likely be expected for team coordination and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the Syracuse, NY location for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in the energy sector. Benefits are standard for a large utility company like National Grid, focusing on health, retirement, and professional growth. The hybrid model with a requirement for in-office presence is a key aspect of the work arrangement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy Utility (Electricity and Gas) Company Size: Large (National Grid is a major global utility with tens of thousands of employees worldwide). This implies a structured environment with established processes and career paths. Founded: National Grid's origins trace back to the early 20th century, with its current form established through mergers and acquisitions, indicating a long history of operational expertise and a stable presence in the energy sector.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the NY Substation Engineering & Design department, indicating a specialized engineering function.
• The team is composed of designers and drafting technicians, likely managed by this Design Manager.
• This team collaborates closely with other departments such as Operations, Planning, and Project Management, requiring strong cross-functional communication.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on delivering safe and secure energy through quality design and engineering.
• Commitment to consistent implementation of standard designs and digital tools for efficiency and reliability.
• Focus on developing unionized team members, suggesting a structured approach to training and performance management.
• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need for performance monitoring and reporting.

Company Website: https://www.nationalgridus.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: National Grid operates in a highly regulated and critical infrastructure sector. The company culture likely emphasizes safety, reliability, compliance, and a methodical approach to problem-solving. The hybrid work model suggests a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, typical for many large corporations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a management position within the engineering and design function, positioned at a senior level due to the 10+ years of experience requirement and team leadership responsibilities. It sits above individual contributor designers and technicians, bridging operational execution with strategic departmental objectives.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a Director or Senior Manager within the Substation Engineering & Design department or a broader Engineering leadership role. They will manage a team of designers and drafting technicians.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the reliability, safety, and efficiency of National Grid's electrical substation infrastructure. High-quality designs ensure the integrity of the power grid, minimize operational disruptions, and support the company's capital investment programs. Effective management of the design process contributes to on-time and within-budget project delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Management: Potential to move into roles like Director of Substation Engineering, Head of Design, or similar senior leadership positions overseeing larger departments or broader engineering functions.
• Specialization and Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific areas of substation design, power systems, or digital engineering tools, becoming a subject matter expert.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into roles in Project Management, Operations Management, or Strategic Planning, leveraging a strong understanding of the engineering lifecycle.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities for formal leadership training, executive coaching, and participation in strategic initiatives to hone management and strategic thinking skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "career path which provides for advancement opportunities within and across bands" mentioned in the job description suggests that National Grid supports internal mobility and growth. This role is a key stepping stone for individuals looking to advance into senior engineering management or broader operational leadership roles within the utility sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid role requiring 2-3 days per week in the Syracuse, NY office. This indicates a professional office setting designed for collaboration, project work, and team meetings. Office Location(s): Syracuse, NY. This location is a hub for National Grid's operations in the region.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is expected to be collaborative, facilitating interaction with direct reports and other engineering/project management teams.
• Access to necessary design software, IT infrastructure, and potentially specialized engineering tools will be provided.
• Opportunities for informal and formal knowledge sharing with peers and senior leadership.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week is typical for full-time roles.
• The hybrid arrangement allows for some flexibility, but consistent in-office presence is mandated for team management and collaboration.
• Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or address urgent operational needs, which is common in the utility sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a modern work environment that balances the need for in-person collaboration with the benefits of remote flexibility. For operations professionals, this means being comfortable with structured office days and having the discipline to manage tasks effectively when working remotely.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess against the minimum qualifications.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your experience in electrical design, team leadership, project management, and understanding of substation engineering principles. Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing unionized teams.
• Technical/Skills Assessment: This may involve a case study or scenario-based questions to evaluate your problem-solving abilities, technical knowledge, and leadership style in practical situations. A portfolio review might occur here.
• Team/Panel Interview: Interviews with potential peers, direct reports, or cross-functional stakeholders to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and overall suitability for the team and company.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss career aspirations and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Leadership in Design: Showcase projects where you led design teams, managed workflows, and ensured design quality. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your contributions.
• Demonstrate Process Improvement: Include examples of how you improved design processes, implemented new tools, or standardized procedures for greater efficiency or accuracy. Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., "reduced design review time by 15%").
• Showcase Technical Oversight: Present examples of your involvement in reviewing complex engineering drawings, specifications, and manufacturer submittals. Explain your approach to technical problem-solving and risk mitigation.
• Address Team Management: Provide evidence of your experience in developing, mentoring, and managing engineering teams, especially in a unionized environment. Discuss your approach to performance management and conflict resolution.
• Tailor to National Grid: Research National Grid's current projects, initiatives, and values to tailor your portfolio examples and interview responses to their specific needs and context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would manage competing priorities and allocate resources effectively for multiple substation projects.
• Prepare to answer questions about resolving technical discrepancies or conflicts between design documents and site conditions.
• Practice articulating your leadership philosophy, particularly concerning motivating diverse teams and fostering a collaborative environment.
• Understand the key challenges in the utility industry, such as grid modernization, renewable integration, and regulatory compliance, and how design management contributes to addressing them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of NYC Local Law 144 and AI-based assessments suggests that the initial screening process might involve automated tools. Applicants should ensure their resumes are ATS-friendly and clearly articulate their experience with keywords relevant to the job description. The portfolio review is a critical component for demonstrating practical experience and leadership impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar Computer-Aided Design software is essential for reviewing and understanding electrical drawings.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Procore is preferred, indicating a need for experience in managing construction projects from a design oversight perspective.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems like ProjectWise is preferred for managing design documents, revisions, and collaboration.
• ERP Systems: Familiarity with SAP is preferred, suggesting its use for project tracking, procurement, or financial aspects of design projects.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong skills in Excel for data analysis, reporting, and tracking project metrics. PowerPoint for presentations and stakeholder updates.
• Internal Reporting Tools: Likely National Grid proprietary tools for monitoring project progress, resource allocation, and performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly a CRM role, understanding how design data interfaces with broader project management or asset management systems is beneficial.
• Automation in design processes might refer to CAD features, BIM integration (if applicable), or workflow automation tools, though specific examples are not provided.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred skills list highlights key software and systems that are standard in large engineering and construction environments. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools and their ability to learn new systems quickly. The emphasis on Procore and ProjectWise suggests a move towards integrated digital project delivery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety: Paramount in the utility industry; all design decisions must prioritize the safety of the public and employees.
• Reliability: Ensuring the design contributes to a stable and dependable energy supply.
• Efficiency: Optimizing design processes and resource allocation to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Compliance: Adhering to all regulatory, industry, and internal standards.
• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where designers, technicians, and cross-functional partners work together effectively.
• Professional Development: Supporting continuous learning and growth for team members.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with Operations, Planning, and Project Management teams to ensure designs meet operational needs and project constraints.
• Union Partnership: Working effectively with Union 97 representatives and team members, adhering to the labor agreement while driving performance.
• Stakeholder Communication: Clear and consistent communication with internal stakeholders, external vendors, and potentially regulatory bodies.
• Feedback Culture: Encouraging a culture where constructive feedback is given and received to improve designs and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: National Grid's values are likely rooted in its role as a critical infrastructure provider. For operations professionals, this translates to a work environment that prioritizes accuracy, responsibility, and a commitment to public service. The emphasis on union collaboration suggests a need for strong interpersonal skills and a fair, consistent approach to management.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Teams: Effectively leading and motivating a team that includes unionized employees, requiring an understanding of labor relations and collective bargaining agreements.
• Balancing Priorities: Juggling multiple capital projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations.
• Technological Adoption: Integrating new digital design tools and methodologies into existing workflows while ensuring team adoption and maintaining productivity.
• Regulatory Landscape: Navigating complex and evolving regulatory requirements that impact substation design and construction.
• Resource Constraints: Optimizing the use of limited design resources to meet the demands of the capital work plan.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Leadership Training: Opportunities to enhance skills in strategic planning, financial management, change management, and executive communication.
• Technical Specialization: Deepen knowledge in areas like high-voltage substation design, protection system engineering, or emerging grid technologies.
• Project Management Certification: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional).
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in events focused on utility engineering, substation design, and digital transformation to stay abreast of industry best practices and innovations.
• Mentorship Programs: Access to mentorship from senior leaders within National Grid to guide career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the complex nature of managing engineering operations in a regulated utility. Growth opportunities are geared towards developing well-rounded leaders who can navigate both technical and human aspects of operations management within the energy sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a conflict within your engineering team, particularly involving union members. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on conflict resolution, understanding of labor agreements, and team cohesion.)
• "How do you prioritize design resources when faced with multiple critical substation projects with overlapping deadlines?" (Prepare to discuss prioritization frameworks, resource allocation strategies, and communication with stakeholders.)
• "Walk me through your process for reviewing and approving complex substation electrical drawings. What key elements do you look for to ensure safety and compliance?" (Detail your technical review methodology, understanding of standards like IEEE/ANSI, NESC, and NEC.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research of National Grid, what do you see as the biggest operational challenges facing the company's substation infrastructure, and how would your role contribute to addressing them?" (Showcase your understanding of the utility industry and National Grid's strategic goals.)
• "How would you foster a collaborative environment between your design team and the Operations department, given their different priorities?" (Discuss your approach to cross-functional communication, building relationships, and aligning goals.)
• "What is your leadership philosophy, especially when managing a team with diverse experience levels and union representation?" (Articulate your management style, focus on development, and commitment to fairness.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio around key responsibilities: team leadership, project oversight, technical review, process improvement, and stakeholder management.
• Quantify Impact: For each project or initiative presented, quantify the results using metrics such as cost savings, schedule adherence, error reduction, or efficiency gains.
• Showcase Process: Clearly explain the processes you implemented or managed, highlighting how they ensured design quality, safety, and compliance.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Use specific examples of how you mentored team members, resolved conflicts, and motivated your team to achieve project success.
• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your projects, demonstrating your understanding of substation engineering principles and relevant codes/standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, especially within the context of a large, regulated utility and a unionized workforce. Quantifiable achievements in your portfolio will significantly strengthen your application.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the National Grid careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 10+ years of experience in engineering design, specifically mentioning substation projects, team leadership, and any experience with unionized environments. Integrate keywords from the job description such as "Substation Engineering," "Electrical Planning," "Design Manager," and "Project Management."
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate examples that showcase your leadership in design teams, successful project delivery, process improvements, and technical oversight. Focus on quantifiable achievements and be ready to present these effectively, using the STAR method.
• Research National Grid: Understand the company's mission, values, recent projects, and challenges in the energy utility sector. Familiarize yourself with their commitment to safety, reliability, and sustainability.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common management, technical, and behavioral questions, with a specific focus on scenarios involving team leadership, resource allocation, technical problem-solving, and union relations.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.