Lead Designer – Transmission

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer – Transmission
Company: Arcadis
Location: Tulsa, OK; Columbus, OH; Orlando, FL; Tampa, FL; Dallas, TX; Houston, TX; Austin, TX; Reno, NV; Las Vegas, NV; Charlotte, NC; Raleigh, NC; Albany, NY; New Albany, OH; Newtown, CT; Boston, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Novi, MI; Portland, ME; San Jose, CA; Salt Lake City, UT
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Engineering Operations / GTM Operations (Design & Technical)
Date Posted: January 7, 2026
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is central to the successful execution of high-voltage (HV) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) transmission and distribution line projects, requiring deep expertise in transmission engineering and design.
• The Lead Designer will be responsible for technical leadership, ensuring project designs meet stringent industry codes, standards, and Arcadis' internal policies, thus directly impacting project delivery efficiency and client satisfaction.
• This position involves significant cross-functional collaboration with various engineering disciplines (civil, substation, electrical, telecommunications, geotechnical) and internal business divisions, highlighting the need for strong coordination and communication skills relevant to GTM operations.
• A key aspect of this role is the mentorship and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) of junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence within the Power Delivery & Renewable team.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Lead Designer," the responsibilities described, including project management aspects, QA/QC, and client interface, position this role within a broader "Engineering Operations" or "Technical GTM Operations" framework, focusing on the operational execution of design and engineering services. The emphasis on codes, standards, and project delivery aligns with operational excellence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering and detailed design of HV and EHV transmission and distribution line projects ranging from 2kV up to 500kV, ensuring adherence to all applicable codes and standards.
• Independently perform complex engineering analyses, develop detailed design drawings, prepare technical specifications, bills of materials, and construction documents with minimal supervision.
• Coordinate effectively with civil, substation, high-voltage electrical, telecommunications, and geotechnical engineers, as well as other Arcadis business divisions, to produce comprehensive, constructible Issue For Construction (IFC) design packages.
• Act as a Technical Design Lead, and potentially Project Manager, for specific projects, supporting client services, project planning, and execution to ensure successful project delivery and client satisfaction.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior engineers and designers, fostering their technical development and ensuring the quality of their work through robust QA/QC processes.
• Engage in business development activities, participating in client meetings, contractor discussions, and vendor interactions to support project acquisition and execution.
• Review and approve shop drawings, procurement documents, and construction documents, ensuring alignment with project requirements and design integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a blend of technical design leadership and operational project oversight. The inclusion of "Project Manager (as needed)" and "business development" suggests a role that contributes to the Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy by ensuring the technical delivery capabilities align with client needs and project scopes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology or an equivalent qualification from an accredited college or university.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Transmission and Distribution line projects, specifically within the 4kV to 500kV range.
• Proven ability to independently execute and deliver complex transmission line design packages.

Required Skills:

• Transmission Line Design Expertise: Deep understanding of HV and EHV transmission line engineering principles and practices.
• Technical Design Software Proficiency: Must be highly proficient in PLS-CADD.
• CAD Software Proficiency: Must be proficient with AutoCAD and Micro-station for design and drafting.
• Code & Standards Compliance: Demonstrated experience in designing in adherence to the National Electrical Code (NEC), National Electric Safety Code (NESC), IEEE codes and standards, as well as relevant county, city, and state codes and ordinances.
• Engineering & Design Deliverables: Ability to engineer and design HV/EHV transmission lines, create bills of materials, develop plan and profile documents, and produce construction packages.
• Mentorship & Leadership: Experience in guiding and developing junior technical staff.
• Project Execution: Ability to manage design tasks and deliverables effectively to meet project timelines and client expectations.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced CAD: Proficiency with AutoCAD 3D is strongly preferred.
• Substation Design Experience: Familiarity or experience with substation design principles and integration.
• PLS Software Suite: Experience with PLS-POLE or PLS TOWER.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software like PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, and Micro-station, along with adherence to industry codes (NEC, NESC, IEEE), is critical for operations roles focused on technical execution and compliance. The 10+ years of experience and ability to work independently under minimal supervision point to a senior operational contributor.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Deliverables Showcase: A portfolio demonstrating successful completion of HV/EHV transmission and distribution line projects, including examples of detailed design drawings, plan and profile documents, and bill of materials.
• Technical Analysis & Studies: Examples of engineering analyses and studies performed, showcasing problem-solving capabilities and adherence to technical standards.
• Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Evidence of successful collaboration with civil, substation, electrical, and other engineering disciplines in developing integrated design packages.
• Code Compliance Documentation: Clear demonstration of understanding and application of NEC, NESC, IEEE, and local codes in design work.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization: Examples of how you have streamlined design workflows or improved efficiency in producing design deliverables.
• System Implementation: Documentation or case studies illustrating the implementation or effective use of design software (PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, Micro-station) for project execution.
• Quality Assurance & Control: A clear understanding of QA/QC processes within a design engineering context, potentially with examples of how you've contributed to or implemented such processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a technical design lead role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase completed projects but also highlight the candidate's ability to manage technical processes, leverage design systems effectively, and ensure quality and compliance—all core aspects of operational execution in an engineering context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The salary range for this position is $100,000 - $150,000 annually. Actual salaries will vary and are based on several factors, such as experience, education, budget, internal equity, project, and location.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement: 401K plan with potential company match.
• Income Protection: Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and Life Insurance.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid Parental Leave, 15 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) that accrues per year, and nine paid holidays.
• Professional Development: Reward & Recognition Program, optional wellbeing benefits, adoption assistance, and tuition reimbursement.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for employees and their families.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be available based on project needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for a Lead Designer role with 10+ years of experience in the specified locations. Arcadis' commitment to a broad range of benefits, including PTO and professional development, is typical for established engineering firms and supports employee retention and engagement, which are key operational considerations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, Design, Consultancy, Sustainability Solutions. Arcadis operates within the global infrastructure and built environment sector, focusing on delivering sustainable solutions for natural and built assets. Company Size: Over 36,000 employees globally. This large size suggests a well-established corporate structure with robust processes, ample resources, and opportunities for specialization within operations. Founded: Arcadis has a long history, tracing its roots back to 1888, indicating a stable and experienced organization with a deep understanding of the engineering and consultancy landscape.

Team Structure:

• Power Delivery & Renewable Team: This team is part of Arcadis' broader Power Delivery group, focusing on transmission and distribution projects.
• Reporting: The Lead Designer will interface directly with Arcadis power delivery project management, project engineering, and the broader power delivery team. They will also collaborate with other specialized Power Delivery departments (Substation, Distribution, Protection & Control, System Planning) and other Arcadis business divisions.
• Collaboration: The role emphasizes close coordination with multiple engineering disciplines and internal business units, underscoring a collaborative, matrixed operational environment.

Methodology:

• Project Execution Excellence: Arcadis focuses on delivering projects in accordance with all applicable codes and standards, including rigorous Safety, Environmental, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control (QA/QC) policies.
• Innovation & Technology: The company leverages world-class resources and innovative technologies to define future cities and experiences, implying an operational focus on adopting and implementing new tools and methods.
• Sustainable Solutions: A core mission is improving quality of life through sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy, driving operational decisions towards environmental and social impact.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Arcadis' global presence and focus on sustainability, combined with its extensive history, suggest a culture that values technical expertise, operational rigor, and long-term impact. The team structure indicates a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level technical design role, designated as "Lead Designer." It implies significant responsibility for technical output, project execution quality, and team guidance. It sits above individual contributor designers and engineers but may report into a Project Manager or Engineering Manager. Reporting Structure: The role reports into the Power Delivery & Renewable team leadership and will work closely with project management and project engineering functions. This structure facilitates direct input into project operational planning and execution. Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's impact is crucial for the operational success of transmission and distribution projects. Their technical leadership ensures designs are compliant, constructible, and cost-effective, directly influencing project profitability, client satisfaction, and Arcadis' reputation in the energy sector. They are key to enabling the company's Go-To-Market strategy by ensuring technical delivery capabilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of transmission line design (e.g., HVAC, HVDC, renewable integration) and become a subject matter expert.
• Project Management: Develop project management skills and potentially transition into formal Project Manager roles, leading larger and more complex projects.
• Leadership Development: Advance into management roles, overseeing larger design teams, departments, or business units, with opportunities for strategic operational planning.
• Mentorship & Training: Further develop leadership by contributing to internal training programs and mentoring more junior staff, shaping the future technical talent within Arcadis.
• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain exposure to other Arcadis sectors (e.g., substations, renewables, civil infrastructure) to broaden technical understanding and operational versatility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" designation signifies a critical operational role with clear pathways for advancement, both technically and managerially. Growth here is tied to mastering complex engineering operations and developing leadership capabilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, suggesting a traditional office environment within one of Arcadis' designated locations. The environment likely supports collaboration and access to necessary resources. Office Location(s): Multiple locations across the US (Tulsa, OK; Columbus, OH; Orlando, FL; Tampa, FL; Dallas, TX; Houston, TX; Austin, TX; Reno, NV; Las Vegas, NV; Charlotte, NC; Raleigh, NC; Albany, NY; New Albany, OH; Newtown, CT; Boston, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Novi, MI; Portland, ME; San Jose, CA; Salt Lake City, UT). This offers flexibility for candidates to choose a location that best suits their needs. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office environment will facilitate direct interaction with project teams, including project managers, engineers, and other designers, fostering a dynamic and communicative workspace essential for efficient project operations.
• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard design software (PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, Micro-station) and potentially advanced visualization tools will be provided, supporting the execution of complex design tasks.
• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for team meetings, design reviews, and informal discussions with colleagues across various engineering disciplines will be available, promoting knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, typical for engineering roles. However, project deadlines and client demands may occasionally require flexibility, with potential for overtime during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration for complex design operations and team cohesion. The wide range of office locations is a significant operational benefit for potential candidates.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the role requirements, with a focus on demonstrated experience in transmission line design and software proficiency.
• Technical Interview: Expect in-depth questions focusing on your technical expertise in HV/EHV transmission line design, your experience with PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, Micro-station, and your knowledge of relevant codes (NEC, NESC, IEEE). This stage will likely include technical problem-solving scenarios.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present and discuss selected projects from your portfolio. Be prepared to articulate your role, design choices, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the impact of your work.
• Behavioral & Team Fit Interview: Questions assessing your leadership, mentorship capabilities, collaboration style, and how you align with Arcadis' values and culture, particularly regarding safety, quality, and sustainability.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or department heads to discuss strategic alignment and long-term potential within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 of your most impactful transmission line design projects that showcase a range of complexities and your specific contributions.
• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific responsibilities, design challenges, innovative solutions, and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, compliance achievements).
• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to walk through specific design elements, software applications (PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, Micro-station), and how you applied codes and standards.
• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Include examples of how you mentored junior staff, coordinated with other disciplines, and managed client interactions.
• Prepare for Technical Q&A: Anticipate questions about design methodologies, software troubleshooting, code interpretation, and best practices in transmission engineering.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You may be presented with a hypothetical transmission line design challenge and asked to outline your approach, key considerations, and potential solutions.
• Software Application: Be prepared to discuss or demonstrate your proficiency in using PLS-CADD for specific design tasks (e.g., sag/tension analysis, structure spotting, profiling).
• Code Interpretation: Questions may probe your understanding of how specific codes (e.g., NESC clearances) are applied in practical design scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes technical depth, practical application of tools and standards, and leadership potential. A strong portfolio that demonstrates operational execution and problem-solving is critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• PLS-CADD: Essential for transmission line design, including structural analysis, sag/tension calculations, profiling, and optimization. Proficiency is a must.
• AutoCAD: Widely used for creating 2D drawings, including plan and profile sheets, general arrangement drawings, and details.
• Micro-station: Another comprehensive CAD platform often used for complex engineering and infrastructure design projects.
• PLS-POLE / PLS TOWER (Preferred): Specialized tools for detailed pole and tower analysis, further enhancing structural design capabilities.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed for design, reporting on project progress, design metrics, and QA/QC findings would likely be managed through project management software or standard reporting tools.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Likely used for tracking project progress, resource allocation, and client communications.
• Document Management Systems: For organizing and versioning design documents, specifications, and construction packages.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, and Micro-station is non-negotiable for this role, reflecting the core technology stack required for operational excellence in transmission line design. Familiarity with related PLS software is a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value at Arcadis, expecting all team members to prioritize safety in design and execution, adhering strictly to safety protocols and standards.
• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound designs that meet or exceed client expectations and industry standards.
• Sustainability: Driving towards solutions that improve quality of life and minimize environmental impact, integrating sustainable practices into design decisions.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing collective intelligence and cross-functional cooperation to solve complex challenges and achieve project success.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities, ensuring reliable project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with various engineering disciplines (civil, electrical, geotechnical) and project management teams to ensure holistic project development.
• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture of supporting junior team members and sharing expertise to foster collective growth and maintain high technical standards.
• Client-Centric Approach: Engaging actively with clients to understand their needs, provide solutions, and build strong, lasting relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: Arcadis' values emphasize a strong operational focus on safety, quality, and collaborative problem-solving, which are essential for managing complex engineering projects and maintaining a high standard of technical delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Design Requirements: Managing the intricate technical demands of HV/EHV transmission line design, including terrain, environmental factors, and regulatory compliance.
• Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Effectively integrating diverse engineering inputs and perspectives to produce a cohesive and constructible design package.
• Mentoring Junior Staff: Balancing design responsibilities with the need to guide, train, and quality check the work of less experienced team members.
• Adapting to Evolving Standards: Staying current with rapidly changing industry codes, safety regulations, and technological advancements in transmission engineering.
• Client Management: Navigating client expectations, feedback, and potential scope changes while maintaining project timelines and budgets.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training on new design software, advanced engineering techniques, and emerging technologies in the power sector.
• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional engineering licenses (PE) and other relevant industry certifications.
• Leadership & Project Management Programs: Opportunities to develop skills in team leadership, project management, and client relations through internal Arcadis programs.
• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional organizations to stay abreast of best practices and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex technical challenges while providing a structured environment for professional growth in both technical expertise and leadership within the operations domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Approach: "Describe your process for designing a new transmission line corridor, from initial feasibility to construction-ready drawings. What are the critical steps and considerations?" (Focus on outlining a structured, operational approach).
• Software Application: "Walk me through a challenging aspect of a past transmission line design project where you utilized PLS-CADD. What problem did you solve, and how did the software assist you?" (Demonstrate practical, efficient use of tools).
• Code Interpretation: "How would you approach a situation where a specific site constraint conflicts with a standard NESC clearance requirement? What steps would you take to resolve this operationally and technically?" (Showcase problem-solving within regulatory frameworks).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Alignment with Values: "Arcadis emphasizes safety and sustainability. How have you incorporated these values into your past design work, and how would you champion them within your team?" (Connect personal experience to company ethos).
• Mentorship Experience: "Describe a time you mentored a junior designer or engineer. What was the situation, your approach, and the outcome?" (Illustrate leadership and team development skills).
• Collaboration: "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration with non-engineering stakeholders (e.g., project managers, clients) on complex technical projects?" (Highlight communication and stakeholder management).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, present: Project Overview & Objectives -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Key Technical Challenges -> Design Solutions & Methodologies (including software used) -> Outcomes & Impact (Quantifiable where possible) -> Lessons Learned.
• Focus on Operational Efficiency: Highlight how your design choices contributed to constructability, cost-effectiveness, safety, and adherence to standards.
• Showcase Software Mastery: Be prepared to briefly demonstrate or explain specific features or workflows within PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, or Micro-station that were critical to the project's success.
• Engage and Discuss: Treat it as a collaborative review rather than a one-way presentation. Be open to questions and ready to delve deeper into specific aspects of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also an operational mindset—how you apply that knowledge efficiently, safely, and collaboratively to achieve project goals.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer – Transmission position:

• Submit your application through the Arcadis careers portal via the provided URL.
• Portfolio Customization: Review your existing portfolio and select projects that best exemplify your experience with HV/EHV transmission lines, PLS-CADD proficiency, and adherence to industry codes. Tailor your presentation to highlight the specific requirements of this role.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 10+ years of relevant experience, specific software proficiencies (PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, Micro-station), and achievements related to transmission line design, project execution, and mentorship. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your technical expertise, design process, and leadership style. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions and rehearse your portfolio presentation.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Arcadis' mission, values, recent projects in the Power Delivery sector, and their commitment to sustainability. Understand how your role contributes to their overall operational objectives.

⚠️ 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.

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