Senior Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Lead Designer

Company: Saber Power Services

Location: Houston, TX, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering - Electrical Design

Date Posted: 2026-07-30

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role serves as the senior design authority within the Electrical Design department, providing critical technical leadership for complex electrical power system projects.

• Responsibilities include establishing design standards, developing departmental best practices, and overseeing the technical quality of project deliverables for utility, industrial, and renewable energy clients.

• The Senior Lead Designer will mentor and lead multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring the delivery of high-quality engineering design packages through all project phases.

• This position requires a deep understanding of electrical equipment and power system components, coupled with expertise in design software and adherence to industry standards and client specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The input job title "Senior Lead Designer" and the detailed responsibilities clearly indicate a role focused on electrical engineering design within the power sector, specifically within Saber Power Services' core markets (utility, renewables, industrial). This is not a typical Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, but the output will be structured to highlight operational aspects of design leadership, process improvement, and technical authority as requested by the prompt's guidelines for operations-focused roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive design and development of complex electrical design packages for transmission, distribution, substation, industrial, renewable energy, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects.

• Serve as the primary technical lead for multidisciplinary design teams throughout all project execution phases, ensuring cohesive and accurate deliverables.

• Develop, review, and approve critical design documents including single-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, grounding plans, conduit layouts, cable schedules, lighting plans, and equipment layouts.

• Execute advanced electrical equipment layouts and cable routing, meticulously adhering to client standards and project-specific specifications to ensure constructability and compliance.

• Provide direct technical direction, mentorship, and guidance to junior designers, drafters, and other design staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

• Establish, implement, and maintain departmental drafting standards, design procedures, and robust quality control processes to ensure consistency and high-quality output across all projects.

• Conduct final quality assurance and thorough technical reviews of all design packages prior to client submission, identifying and rectifying any discrepancies or potential issues.

• Collaborate effectively with engineers, project managers, field personnel, and clients to proactively resolve design challenges, mitigate risks, and ensure overall project success and client satisfaction.

• Review engineering calculations, vendor drawings, technical specifications, and client standards to ensure accurate and compliant implementation within all design documents.

• Lead and facilitate design review meetings, actively participating in interdisciplinary project coordination sessions to foster collaboration and alignment.

• Support proposal development efforts by providing essential design input, accurate labor estimates, and strategic technical recommendations.

• Assist Engineering and Operations leadership with departmental planning, resource allocation, workload forecasting, and the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives.

• Support field investigations, site visits, constructability reviews, and the development of as-built documentation as required for project lifecycle management.

• Identify and champion opportunities to enhance design efficiency through the adoption of new technologies, automation tools, and standardized processes.

• Maintain meticulous project documentation, revision history, and design records throughout the entire project lifecycle, ensuring traceability and compliance.

• Stay abreast of evolving industry standards, client specifications, software platforms, and emerging technologies relevant to electrical power system design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities list has been expanded to include more granular tasks common in senior design leadership roles within the power industry, emphasizing technical oversight, process standardization, and team development, which align with operational leadership principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, Electrical Technology, or a closely related field is required.

• A Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline is strongly preferred.

• Equivalent, extensive industry experience demonstrating the required skills and knowledge will be considered. Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive electrical design experience specifically supporting utility, transmission, distribution, substation, industrial, or renewable energy projects.

• A minimum of 3 to 5 years of direct experience leading design teams or serving in a technical lead capacity on complex projects. Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in industry-standard design and drafting software, including AutoCAD, MicroStation, and/or AutoCAD Electrical.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex engineering calculations, technical specifications, one-line diagrams, protection schemes, and vendor drawings accurately.

• Extensive knowledge of key electrical equipment such as transformers, switchgear, circuit breakers, protective relays, batteries, chargers, motor control centers, and other associated power system components.

• Proven ability to lead multiple complex projects simultaneously, effectively managing scope, quality, and schedule.

• Strong leadership, mentoring, and team development skills, with a capacity to inspire and guide junior design staff.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, facilitating effective collaboration with engineers, project managers, clients, and field personnel.

• Exceptional attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to technical excellence and design accuracy.

• Strong organizational, planning, and time management abilities to handle demanding project schedules and workloads.

• Ability to establish, implement, and improve departmental standards, workflows, and best practices for design processes.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to effectively address design challenges and propose innovative solutions. Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience supporting EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), utility, or consulting engineering projects is highly preferred.

• Familiarity with 3D modeling and advanced layout tools for electrical design.

• Understanding of relevant industry codes and standards (e.g., IEEE, NEC, ANSI).

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been detailed to reflect the seniority of the role, specifying the minimum years of experience in both general electrical design and leadership, and emphasizing the critical software proficiencies and technical knowledge required. The distinction between required and preferred skills is also clarified.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing leadership in the design of complex electrical power systems, including transmission, distribution, substation, industrial, and renewable energy projects.

• Include case studies that highlight your ability to establish and improve design standards, workflows, and quality control processes within a design department.

• Showcase examples of leading multidisciplinary design teams, detailing your approach to mentorship, technical direction, and team development.

• Present projects where you were instrumental in developing detailed design packages, including single-line diagrams, schematics, equipment layouts, and construction drawings, emphasizing accuracy and compliance.

• Provide examples of how you have ensured technical quality and resolved design challenges through collaboration with engineering, project management, and clients. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of creating or significantly improving design procedures, drafting standards, and quality assurance protocols.

• Examples of implementing standardized processes for design reviews, document control, and change management within a design team.

• Documentation of how you have utilized project lifecycle management to maintain design records, revision history, and ensure compliance with client specifications and industry standards.

• Showcase your approach to identifying and implementing design efficiency improvements through technology, automation, or process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section has been tailored to interpret "design packages" and "quality control processes" as operational outputs of a design department. The focus is on demonstrating process ownership, standardization, and efficiency improvements, which are key tenets of operations roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the Senior Lead Designer title, extensive experience (10+ years), and location in Houston, TX (a major hub for the energy sector), the estimated salary range is $120,000 - $170,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar senior engineering design leadership roles in major metropolitan areas, considering the specialized nature of power systems design. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Multiple medical plan options to suit diverse employee needs.

• Company-Paid Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability insurance, as well as basic life insurance for employees and their dependents, providing financial security.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a competitive company matching program to support long-term financial goals.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Supportive Work Environment: Emphasis on a positive and inclusive workplace culture where employees feel valued and supported.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and staying current with industry advancements. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week.

• While the role is on-site, potential for some flexibility in daily start/end times may be available, subject to project demands and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary has been estimated based on typical compensation for senior-level design leads in the specified industry and location. Benefits are detailed as provided in the input, with emphasis on aspects relevant to professionals seeking stable employment and career growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical Power Systems Services (Utility, Renewables, Battery Storage, Industrial, Petrochemical). Saber Power Services operates within a critical infrastructure sector, characterized by high standards for safety, reliability, and technical precision.

Company Size: Saber Power Services is a portfolio company of Greenbelt Capital Partners. While specific employee counts for Saber Power Services aren't provided, its status as a portfolio company suggests it's a growing entity with significant resources, likely employing a substantial team of engineers, designers, project managers, and field personnel. This implies a dynamic and potentially fast-paced environment.

Founded: The founding date of Saber Power Services is not explicitly stated, but its status as a portfolio company of Greenbelt Capital Partners (founded in 2020) suggests it is a relatively modern entity or has undergone significant recent strategic investment and restructuring.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Lead Designer will likely be part of a larger Electrical Engineering or Design department, reporting to an Engineering Manager or Director.

• This role involves leading multidisciplinary design teams, which would include designers, drafters, and potentially junior engineers, collaborating with project managers, other engineering disciplines (civil, structural, mechanical), and field operations.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working closely with project management, sales/business development for proposal input, and field teams for site investigations and constructability reviews. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasizes using engineering calculations, client specifications, and industry standards to inform all design decisions.

• Engineering-Led Approach: Prioritizes deep subject matter expertise and a rigorous engineering process for designing, installing, testing, and maintaining electrical infrastructure.

• Quality Assurance Focus: Implements robust quality control processes and final technical reviews to ensure the delivery of high-quality, reliable design packages.

• Process Improvement: Actively seeks opportunities to enhance design efficiency through technology, automation, and standardized workflows.

Company Website: http://www.saberpower.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context has been inferred from its description as a portfolio company in the power services sector. The "Methodology" section translates the company's stated approach into operational principles relevant to a design leadership role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior individual contributor or first-level management level within the design function. It requires significant technical expertise and leadership capabilities. The "Lead" aspect signifies responsibility for guiding technical direction and mentoring others, embodying operational excellence in design execution.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Lead Designer typically reports to an Engineering Manager or Director of Engineering. They, in turn, lead a team of designers and drafters. This structure emphasizes a clear hierarchy for technical decision-making and project oversight.

Operations Impact: The design work directly impacts project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, safety, and long-term reliability of critical electrical infrastructure. High-quality, efficient designs are fundamental to project success, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation and profitability. The role influences operational efficiency by establishing standards and improving design processes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Engineering Manager or Director of Design: With proven leadership and project success, candidates can progress into management roles overseeing larger teams and strategic departmental planning.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like BESS, renewable energy integration, or high-voltage substation design, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Technical Authority: Evolve into a principal designer or chief engineer role, setting technical direction for the entire organization.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Take on roles focused on optimizing design workflows, implementing new technologies, and driving operational efficiency across the engineering function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory is framed within an operations context, focusing on leadership in process, efficiency, and technical strategy rather than purely technical progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as on-site in Houston, TX. This suggests a professional office environment conducive to collaboration and focused design work.

Office Location(s): Houston, Texas, US (ZIP code 77059). This location places the office within a major industrial and energy sector hub.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close interaction with engineers, project managers, and other design staff, suggesting an open or team-oriented office layout.

• Technology-Rich Workspace: Access to high-performance workstations with specialized design software (AutoCAD, MicroStation) is essential.

• Operations Focus: The workspace will support the execution of detailed design tasks, quality reviews, and team coordination meetings critical for project delivery. Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

• While core hours are expected, the nature of project deadlines may require occasional flexibility to meet critical milestones, especially during peak periods or when leading complex designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes the operational aspects of the work environment – collaboration for process execution, technology enablement for design efficiency, and the schedule's impact on project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications for minimum qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: This will likely involve senior design staff or engineering managers assessing your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and understanding of electrical power systems. Expect questions about your experience with specific project types and design challenges.

• Lead/Manager Interview: Focuses on leadership capabilities, mentoring approach, experience in establishing design standards, and how you've driven process improvements.

• Portfolio Review: A crucial step where you will present selected projects, detailing your role, design approach, challenges overcome, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss specific diagrams, layouts, and problem resolutions.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss overall fit, strategic contributions, and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your leadership in complex electrical designs, process improvements, and team mentoring. Prioritize projects relevant to Saber

Power's core markets.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • The project's scope and objectives.
  • Your specific role and responsibilities as Lead Designer.
  • The design challenges encountered and how you, as a leader, guided the team to overcome them.
  • Key design deliverables produced and their technical merit.
  • Any improvements made to design processes, standards, or efficiency.
  • The outcome and impact of your design work on project success.

• Quantify Where Possible: Use metrics to demonstrate impact, such as improvements in design cycle time, reduction in design errors, or cost savings achieved through efficient design.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in guiding, mentoring, and empowering your design team.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Prepare to discuss specific technical details, software applications, and industry standards relevant to your portfolio projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Prepare to discuss hypothetical design scenarios or process improvement initiatives.

• Be ready to articulate your approach to establishing and enforcing design standards.

• Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, as you would when mentoring junior staff or presenting to clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process is described with a focus on demonstrating operational leadership in design – process ownership, team development, and technical quality assurance.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Expert proficiency is mandatory for AutoCAD, MicroStation, and/or AutoCAD Electrical. These are the core tools for creating electrical schematics, diagrams, and layouts.

• Design & Engineering Software: Familiarity with software used for electrical calculations, load flow analysis, short-circuit studies, and potentially 3D modeling for equipment and cable routing.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools for tracking project progress, managing tasks, and coordinating with team members (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Jira – though specific tools are not mentioned, the ability to manage projects is key).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, versioning, and retrieving design documents and project records.

• Quality Control/Assurance Tools: Familiarity with checklists, review templates, and processes used for technical quality assurance.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Collaboration Tools: Proficiency with platforms for team communication and collaboration (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack).

• ERP/Financial Systems: While not directly used for design, understanding how design packages feed into project costing and procurement (via ERP systems) is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section focuses on the essential technical tools for a Senior Lead Designer, highlighting their role in enabling efficient and accurate design operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A core value. Expect a strong emphasis on safety protocols in all design considerations and operational procedures.

• Technical Excellence: Commitment to high-quality, accurate, and reliable engineering designs is paramount.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together, share knowledge, and mentor each other.

• Efficiency & Improvement: Actively seeking ways to optimize design processes, adopt new technologies, and improve overall operational effectiveness.

• Client Focus: Delivering solutions that meet or exceed client expectations, building strong long-term relationships.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Proactive engagement with engineers, project managers, field teams, and clients to ensure design alignment and project success.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture where senior staff actively guide and develop junior team members, promoting continuous learning and skill development.

• Process-Oriented: A structured approach to design, with clear procedures for reviews, approvals, and quality checks, encouraging feedback for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are interpreted through an operations lens, emphasizing process, efficiency, and team development as key components of the work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Leading multiple large-scale, technically demanding electrical design projects concurrently, each with unique client requirements and potential challenges.

• Ensuring Design Consistency: Maintaining high standards of quality and consistency across a team of designers, especially on projects with varying complexities and client specifications.

• Adopting New Technologies: Integrating new design software, tools, or methodologies into existing workflows while managing potential resistance to change and ensuring adequate training.

• Balancing Efficiency and Quality: Finding the optimal balance between rapid design delivery to meet project timelines and ensuring the utmost technical accuracy and safety.

• Mentoring Diverse Skill Levels: Effectively guiding and developing a design team with varying levels of experience and expertise.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas like BESS design, advanced protection schemes, or utility-scale renewable integration.

• Leadership Development Programs: Training in management, team leadership, strategic planning, and process optimization.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending industry events and obtaining relevant certifications to stay current with best practices and emerging technologies.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Opportunities to work closely with other engineering disciplines, gaining a broader understanding of integrated project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed in the context of operational leadership and process management within a design environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a design team through a complex project. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful delivery?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and process management).

• "How would you go about establishing or improving design standards and quality control processes within a design department?" (Focus on process ownership, standardization, and continuous improvement).

• "Walk me through a project where you had to resolve a significant design conflict or technical challenge. What was your approach?" (Focus on technical acumen, problem-solving, and collaboration).

• "How do you balance the need for speed and efficiency in design with the absolute requirement for technical accuracy and safety?" (Focus on operational strategy and risk management). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Saber Power Services and our role in the electrical power industry?" (Research their projects, values, and recent news).

• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers and fostering a collaborative team environment?" (Align with Saber's emphasis on teamwork and development).

• "How do you ensure your designs comply with client specifications and industry standards, and what is your process for quality assurance?" (Demonstrate adherence to operational rigor). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin by summarizing the project's strategic importance and the key operational outcomes achieved through your design leadership.

• Detail Your Leadership Role: Clearly articulate your responsibilities as the Senior Lead Designer and how you guided your team.

• Showcase Process & Problem-Solving: Present specific examples of design challenges and how your team, under your guidance, used specific processes or methodologies to resolve them.

• Highlight Technical Deliverables: Be prepared to discuss key diagrams, layouts, and technical decisions made, explaining the rationale behind them.

• Quantify Results: Use metrics (e.g., efficiency gains, error reduction, successful project completion) to demonstrate the tangible impact of your work.

• Conclude with Fit: Briefly explain how your experience and approach align with Saber Power Services' values and operational goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions and preparation tips are tailored to assess operational leadership skills, process orientation, and technical rigor relevant to a Senior Lead Designer role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience in leading electrical design teams, establishing standards, and executing complex power system projects. If a portfolio is requested, select projects that best showcase your leadership and process improvement contributions.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your proficiency in AutoCAD, MicroStation, and AutoCAD Electrical, along with your years of experience in utility, transmission, distribution, substation, industrial, or renewable energy design. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your leadership style, problem-solving approach, and experience with design process improvement. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail, focusing on your role as a technical leader and mentor.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Saber Power Services' projects, markets, and stated values (especially safety). Understand their engineering-led approach and how your expertise can contribute to their operational success.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions for operations and engineering roles. All details should be verified directly with Saber Power Services before making application decisions.

---