Lead Designer - Power Delivery

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer - Power Delivery

Company: Paradigm Power Delivery Inc.

Location: Overland Park, Kansas, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Operations (Power Delivery & Infrastructure)

Date Posted: June 10, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design process for critical power delivery infrastructure projects, ensuring adherence to stringent quality, safety, and regulatory standards.

• Drive innovation in engineering solutions for substations and power line construction/repair, directly impacting project efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Foster a high-performing design team through mentorship, collaboration, and the implementation of best practices in design methodologies.

• Serve as a key technical liaison between design, project management, and construction teams, ensuring seamless project execution from concept to completion.

• Engage directly with clients to translate their unique requirements into robust and effective design specifications, building strong stakeholder relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Lead Designer within a specialized infrastructure company. While the core is design, the emphasis on leadership, client interaction, and cross-functional collaboration with project management and construction teams indicates a strong operations-centric component. Success will hinge on not just technical design prowess but also on the ability to manage processes, people, and project outcomes effectively. The "Power Delivery" aspect suggests a focus on the operational flow and reliability of electrical energy systems.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and lead the comprehensive design of electrical substations and power delivery infrastructure, ensuring all designs meet or exceed industry standards, client specifications, and regulatory compliance.

• Develop and implement innovative engineering solutions that enhance the efficiency, reliability, and safety of power delivery systems.

• Manage the review and approval process for all design-related documentation, including drawings, technical specifications, calculations, and bill of materials.

• Mentor and guide a team of junior designers and engineers, providing technical expertise, performance feedback, and fostering professional development in areas like electrical engineering principles and design software.

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers to ensure designs are feasible, cost-effective, and align with project timelines and budget constraints, proactively identifying and mitigating potential design-related risks.

• Act as a primary technical point of contact for clients, understanding their requirements, presenting design concepts, and providing ongoing technical support throughout the project lifecycle.

• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, industry best practices, and advancements in power delivery and substation design, integrating relevant innovations into the team's design processes and standards.

• Ensure seamless integration between design outputs and construction execution by working closely with field teams, addressing any discrepancies or challenges encountered during the build phase.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes, tools, and standards within the organization, driving operational excellence and efficiency.

• Perform site visits and assessments as necessary to gather information, validate design parameters, and support construction activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed clearly indicate a blend of technical design leadership and operational project oversight. The emphasis on "ensuring adherence," "collaborate with project managers," "review and approve," and "stay current on industry trends" points to a role that requires strong process management and execution capabilities, beyond pure conceptual design. This suggests a need for candidates who can not only design but also manage the lifecycle of a design within a project context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline is strongly preferred, providing a foundational understanding of electrical systems and principles. Experience:

• A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in design, with a significant focus on substation and power delivery projects. This includes experience in all phases of the design lifecycle, from conceptualization to detailed engineering. Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in the design of electrical substations and power delivery infrastructure, including understanding of transmission and distribution systems.

• Strong command of electrical engineering principles, including power system analysis, load flow, fault calculations, and protection schemes.

• Proficient in industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD and/or Revit for creating detailed engineering drawings, schematics, and 3D models.

• Demonstrated experience in leading and mentoring design teams, including workload distribution, performance management, and technical guidance.

• Solid understanding of relevant design codes, standards (e.g., IEEE, NESC), and safety regulations governing power delivery projects.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to articulate complex technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences, including clients.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to identify issues, develop effective solutions, and adapt designs to evolving project requirements.

• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management methodologies and tools, enabling effective collaboration with project managers.

• Familiarity with other relevant design or simulation software (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E, MicroStation).

• Knowledge of construction processes and best practices for power delivery projects.

• Experience in client-facing roles, including proposal development and technical presentations.

• Relevant professional engineering (PE) license.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" experience level suggests a need for individuals who have moved beyond entry-level design and possess a strategic understanding of project execution. The emphasis on leadership, client interaction, and software proficiency (AutoCAD/Revit) are critical for operational success in managing complex design workflows. The inclusion of "design codes and safety standards" highlights the regulatory and compliance aspects inherent in operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant power delivery or substation design projects, detailing the scope, challenges, and your specific contributions.

• Technical Drawings & Schematics: Include representative samples of detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, layout plans, and equipment specifications that demonstrate proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit.

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Present at least one case study highlighting a situation where your design approach led to improved efficiency, cost savings, enhanced safety, or accelerated project timelines in a power delivery context.

• Client Collaboration Evidence: If possible, include examples or descriptions of how you translated client requirements into design solutions, demonstrating your client-facing and technical communication skills.

• Team Leadership Demonstrations: Provide evidence of your leadership experience, such as project plans you managed, team structures you oversaw, or instances where you mentored junior designers.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate understanding of standard design workflows for substations and power lines, including phases from conceptual design, detailed engineering, procurement support, to construction support.

• System Integration: Show how your designs integrate with existing or planned infrastructure, and how you consider operational aspects like maintenance access and future expansion.

• Quality Assurance/Control: Include examples or descriptions of how you implement QA/QC processes within your design work to ensure accuracy and compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. It needs to go beyond just showcasing drawings; it must demonstrate an understanding of the entire design lifecycle within a project's operational framework. Highlighting process optimization and client collaboration is key to showing operational impact and leadership potential.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The expected base salary range for this position is $80,000 - $130,000 USD annually.

• This range is an estimate and the final offer will be determined by factors such as the candidate's education, depth and relevance of work experience, applicable licenses and certifications, and alignment with specific role requirements. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans available from day one.

• Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) plan with an employer match, and potentially IRA options.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic and voluntary life insurance, including Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Short-Term and Long-Term Disability insurance to provide financial security.

• Generous Paid Time Off: Includes Vacation Pay, Sick Leave, and Public Holidays, ensuring work-life balance.

• Family Support: Paid Family Leave, including Maternity and Paternity Leave.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for Training & Development to enhance skills and career growth.

• Additional Perks: Wellness Awards and other benefits designed to support employee well-being.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, reflecting a full-time commitment.

• While core hours are expected, there may be flexibility based on project needs and operational demands, requiring adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is typical for a Lead Designer role in the US, especially in specialized engineering fields. The benefits package is comprehensive, indicating a commitment to employee well-being and long-term retention, which is common for established companies in the energy and construction sectors. The mention of "day one" coverage for benefits is a significant plus.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy / Utilities / Construction - specializing in electrical substations and power line infrastructure. This sector is critical for public and industrial services, demanding high reliability, safety, and adherence to strict regulations.

Company Size: Part of Babcock Power, a larger entity, suggesting a robust organizational structure with established processes, but Paradigm Power Delivery likely operates with the agility of a specialized division. The company size implies a significant number of employees, fostering diverse teams and opportunities for specialization.

Founded: While the founding date of Paradigm Power Delivery Inc. isn't explicitly stated, being a "Babcock Power company" suggests it benefits from the legacy and established reputation of its parent organization, implying decades of experience in the power sector.

Team Structure:

• The design team is led by this role, likely comprising several junior designers and engineers.

• This team will collaborate closely with Project Management, Construction, Procurement, and potentially Sales/Business Development departments.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a Director of Engineering or a VP of Operations, overseeing the technical execution of projects. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using engineering principles, codes, and client data to inform design decisions, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

• Process Optimization: A focus on improving design workflows, leveraging technology (like AutoCAD, Revit), and ensuring designs are practical for field execution and long-term operation.

• Collaborative Execution: Strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork, with open communication channels between design, project management, and construction to ensure project success.

Company Website: https://paradigm-pd.com/ (Derived from domain)

📝 Enhancement Note: As a specialized division within a larger corporation (Babcock Power), Paradigm Power Delivery likely balances established corporate standards with the focused expertise required for power infrastructure projects. The culture will likely value precision, safety, and efficiency, driven by the critical nature of their work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a significant step into leadership within the engineering and operations domain of power delivery. It's positioned as a mid-to-senior level position, responsible for not only technical execution but also team management and strategic design input. The "Lead" title signifies a transition from individual contributor to a managerial and influential role within the project lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will likely report to a higher-level engineering manager or an Operations Director, who oversees multiple project facets. They will, in turn, manage a team of designers and engineers, requiring strong leadership and mentorship skills.

Operations Impact: The designs developed by this role have a direct and tangible impact on the operational efficiency, reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness of critical energy infrastructure. Successful designs enable the seamless delivery of power, minimize downtime, and ensure compliance, all of which are core to the company's operational success and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of substation design, transmission engineering, or renewable energy integration.

• Project Management Track: Transition into a full Project Manager role, leveraging design understanding to oversee broader project execution and client relations.

• Leadership Advancement: Move into higher-level engineering management roles, overseeing larger teams, multiple project portfolios, or strategic engineering initiatives.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives to enhance design processes, implement new technologies, or improve operational efficiency across the engineering department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" designation is a clear indicator of a growth path. Candidates are expected to not only excel technically but also develop leadership and operational management skills. The company's connection to Babcock Power suggests a structured environment for career progression within the broader energy and infrastructure sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Overland Park, Kansas, implying a professional office environment typical for engineering and construction firms. This setting likely facilitates collaboration through shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and access to necessary technical infrastructure.

Office Location(s): Overland Park, Kansas, United States. This location is accessible for local candidates and serves as a central hub for operations in the region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment will likely feature collaborative areas for team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional discussions with project managers and construction leads.

• Technology Access: Employees will have access to robust workstations equipped with necessary design software (AutoCAD, Revit), high-speed internet, and other relevant engineering tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with design team members, project managers, and potentially field personnel during project planning phases.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected for this on-site role. However, the dynamic nature of power delivery projects may require occasional flexibility to meet critical deadlines or address urgent operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in a specialized engineering firm like Paradigm Power Delivery suggests a structured, professional environment where teamwork and direct communication are valued. The focus on power delivery implies a need for reliable infrastructure and efficient operations, which are best supported by a dedicated, co-located team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess technical qualifications, experience in power delivery design, and leadership potential.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on your electrical engineering knowledge, design software proficiency (AutoCAD, Revit), and experience with substation/power line projects. Expect questions on codes, standards, and problem-solving methodologies.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, design choices, challenges overcome, and the impact of your work. This is a critical step to demonstrate your practical experience and operational thinking.

• Team/Manager Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team collaboration skills, ability to mentor junior staff, and alignment with the company culture. Questions may focus on your approach to managing projects and stakeholders.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to assess strategic fit, long-term career aspirations, and overall value proposition.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the quantifiable results of your design decisions (e.g., X% increase in efficiency, Y% cost reduction, Z hours saved in construction, compliance achieved).

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Highlight complex challenges you faced and detail your systematic approach to solving them, including any innovative solutions you developed.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Use your portfolio to illustrate instances where you led a team, mentored junior staff, or managed design workflows to successful completion.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects and skills most relevant to power delivery and substation design, and clearly connect your experience to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

• Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss specific design choices, software functionalities, and adherence to codes and standards in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You may be presented with a hypothetical design problem related to substation or power line infrastructure. Prepare to outline your approach, key considerations, and potential solutions.

• Process Improvement: Be ready to discuss how you would approach improving a specific design process or workflow within the company. Focus on efficiency, safety, and quality.

• Leadership Scenario: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a common team management challenge, such as resolving design conflicts, motivating a team, or managing performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical demonstration of skills through portfolio review and potential case studies. This indicates that Paradigm Power Delivery values candidates who can not only talk about their experience but also showcase it with concrete examples of operational impact and technical expertise.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for 2D drafting, creating detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and layout plans. Proficiency in using layers, blocks, XREFs, and dimensioning tools is expected.

• Revit: Increasingly important for 3D modeling of substations and infrastructure, enabling better clash detection, visualization, and coordination with other disciplines (MEP, structural). Experience with creating families and managing BIM models is a plus.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word for specifications and reports, Excel for calculations and data analysis, and PowerPoint for presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For performing essential calculations, data analysis, and basic reporting on design parameters and material estimates.

• Specialized Electrical Software: Depending on the project, familiarity with software for power system analysis (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E, SKM PowerTools) for load flow, fault studies, and protection coordination might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with project management and potentially ERP systems used by the company is advantageous.

• Automation tools might be relevant for script-based drafting enhancements or data processing within AutoCAD/Revit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around AutoCAD and Revit, standard tools in the engineering and construction sector. The mention of specialized electrical software highlights the depth of technical knowledge required. Understanding how design tools interact with broader project management systems is key for operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in the power delivery industry, ensuring all designs and processes prioritize the safety of workers and the public.

• Quality & Precision: A commitment to delivering accurate, reliable, and high-quality designs that meet rigorous industry standards and client expectations.

• Efficiency & Innovation: Striving for optimized design processes and incorporating innovative solutions to improve project delivery, reduce costs, and enhance system performance.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where designers, engineers, project managers, and construction teams work together seamlessly to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of design outcomes and project responsibilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where design is not siloed but integrated closely with project management, construction, and client teams.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasis on open and frequent communication to address issues early, ensure alignment, and facilitate smooth project progression.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing expertise and best practices within the design team and across departments to elevate overall project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values listed are typical for safety-critical industries like power delivery. The emphasis on collaboration speaks to the integrated nature of operations in such companies, where design is a crucial input to the broader project execution lifecycle.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Demands: Managing intricate designs for large-scale substations and power line projects, often with tight deadlines and evolving client requirements.

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating a complex landscape of local, state, and federal regulations, codes, and standards to ensure designs are compliant and approved.

• Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in design software, materials, and power delivery technologies, and integrating them effectively into existing workflows.

• Team Leadership Dynamics: Effectively leading and motivating a diverse design team, resolving technical disagreements, and ensuring consistent quality across all team members' work.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to gain expertise in newer versions of AutoCAD, Revit, or specialized power system analysis tools.

• Project Management Certification: Pursuing certifications or training in project management methodologies to enhance skills in overseeing project lifecycles.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending events focused on power delivery, substation design, and electrical engineering to stay current with industry trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior engineers and leaders for guidance on technical challenges, career development, and leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the demanding yet rewarding nature of the role. The growth opportunities are clearly linked to advancing technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and staying current with industry best practices, all critical for long-term success in operations and engineering.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to designing a new substation, from initial client consultation to final construction-ready drawings. What are your key considerations at each stage?" (Focus on process, stakeholder management, and risk mitigation.)

• Leadership & Team Management: "How do you motivate a design team, especially when facing tight deadlines or challenging technical problems? Provide an example of a time you mentored a junior designer to success." (Highlight your leadership style, problem-solving, and mentorship approach.)

• Problem-Solving & Innovation: "Describe a complex design challenge you encountered in a power delivery project and how you overcame it. Did you propose any innovative solutions, and what was their impact?" (Prepare a specific case study that demonstrates analytical thinking and creative problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Paradigm Power Delivery and our role in the power delivery industry?" (Research the company's projects, values, and its position within Babcock Power.)

• "How do you ensure collaboration between design teams and construction crews to prevent field issues?" (Emphasize your understanding of cross-functional operational workflows and communication.)

• "How do you stay current with evolving industry standards and technologies in electrical engineering and power delivery?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a clear story: the challenge, your solution (design approach), the execution, and the outcome (quantifiable results).

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, especially if working in a team. Emphasize leadership responsibilities if applicable.

• Visualize Your Work: Use high-quality images of drawings, schematics, and 3D models. Be prepared to explain specific details on screen.

• Focus on Operations Impact: For each project, explain how your design contributed to project efficiency, safety, cost-effectiveness, or operational reliability.

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, software usage, and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical skill but also operational awareness – understanding how design impacts project execution, team dynamics, and client satisfaction. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to showcase this holistically.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer - Power Delivery position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant power delivery and substation design projects. Ensure it highlights your leadership experience, technical proficiency in AutoCAD/Revit, and quantifiable achievements in efficiency, safety, and cost savings.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to clearly articulate your 5+ years of experience in power delivery design, emphasizing leadership roles, project management collaboration, and adherence to industry standards. Integrate keywords like "substation design," "power delivery infrastructure," "AutoCAD," "Revit," and "electrical engineering principles."

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on clear storytelling, quantifiable results, and your approach to problem-solving and team leadership. Prepare specific examples for common interview questions related to technical challenges, collaboration, and design strategy.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Paradigm Power Delivery Inc. and its parent company, Babcock Power. Understand their mission, recent projects, and any stated company values related to safety, quality, and innovation. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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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