Substation Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Substation Lead Designer

Company: Ulteig

Location: United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering / Infrastructure Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-11T22:43:37.615

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in providing advanced technical drafting and design support for critical infrastructure projects, specifically within substation environments.

• The position requires a deep understanding of 3D modeling software and its application in creating detailed engineering plans and schematics.

• A key aspect involves mentoring and guiding junior technicians and engineers, ensuring adherence to company and client standards.

• The Lead Designer will also be instrumental in optimizing design workflows by embracing and integrating new technologies, including AI tools, for enhanced efficiency and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Substation Lead Designer," the underlying responsibilities and required skills, such as infrastructure design, 3D modeling, and technical support, align closely with operational support functions within engineering and GTM (Go-To-Market) enablement for infrastructure development. The "Lead" aspect implies a senior individual contributor role with mentorship responsibilities, common in specialized operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop comprehensive plans for infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on substation electrical equipment layout, conduit design, grounding, lighting, and lightning protection.

• Create accurate 3D models and detailed technical drawings, including protection one-line diagrams, schematics, and interconnection wiring diagrams, utilizing AutoCAD and other specified software.

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to a group of engineers and technicians, ensuring the quality and accuracy of their design work.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including project managers, engineers, and field personnel, to ensure design feasibility and constructability.

• Apply company, client, and project-specific standards and procedures rigorously, while also identifying opportunities for process improvement and innovation.

• Thoroughly understand site layout logistics to ensure efficient drafting and ease of construction, proactively identifying potential constructability challenges.

• Leverage Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) for project documentation, communication, and reporting.

• Independently manage design tasks, prioritize workload, and ensure projects are completed on schedule and within scope.

• Embrace and apply evolving technology and AI tools to enhance design workflows, solve complex problems, and drive continuous improvement in design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize technical execution and design quality, which are core operational functions within an engineering firm. The "Lead" designation suggests a focus on process adherence, quality control, and knowledge transfer, aligning with operational best practices for team enablement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A two-year technical degree in Technical Drafting or an equivalent field is required. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in infrastructure-related design is mandatory.

• Proven, detailed drafting experience specifically with substation electrical equipment layout, conduit design, grounding design, lighting design, lightning protection design, protection one-line diagrams, schematics, and interconnection wiring diagrams using AutoCAD. Required Skills:

• Demonstrated proficiency in 3D modeling software, including AutoCAD, and a strong understanding of its application in infrastructure design.

• Expertise in creating detailed electrical substation design documents such as one-line diagrams, schematics, and wiring diagrams.

• Ability to learn and consistently apply company, client, and project-specific standards and procedures.

• Strong collaboration and communication skills for effective teamwork within a multidisciplinary environment.

• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet project deadlines.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).

• Openness to innovation and adoption of evolving technology, including AI tools, for workflow enhancement and problem-solving. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with additional 3D modeling software such as Inventor, Bentley, Solidworks, Revit, and SketchUp.

• Familiarity with graphic design programs like Adobe Photoshop.

• Knowledge of MicroStation is considered a significant advantage.

• Strong organizational skills to ensure projects are completed efficiently and on schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of required software and specific technical drafting experience in substation design points to a highly specialized operational role. The emphasis on independent work and adherence to standards are critical for operations efficiency and quality control.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a portfolio demonstrating a strong track record in infrastructure design, particularly within electrical substations.

• Include examples of detailed 3D models and technical drawings created using AutoCAD, highlighting complexity and accuracy.

• Present case studies illustrating your ability to apply company and client standards effectively in design projects.

• Demonstrate experience in site layout logistics and its impact on efficient drafting and construction ease. Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of your ability to create and adhere to detailed design processes and documentation standards.

• Highlight examples of how you have contributed to the optimization of design workflows, potentially through the use of technology or AI tools.

• Showcase your understanding of how to integrate design processes with project management timelines and deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Lead" role in a design-focused operational capacity, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase technical skills but also the ability to manage design processes, adhere to standards, and contribute to workflow efficiency, especially with the mention of AI tools.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Target Base Hourly Compensation Range: $47.40 - $59.00 USD per hour.

• Estimate Explanation: This range is based on the provided hourly compensation data and is considered competitive for a Lead Designer role with 10+ years of specialized infrastructure experience in the US market. Factors influencing the exact salary within this range will include the candidate's specific skills, educational background, geographic location within the US, and the depth of their relevant experience, as well as internal equity considerations.

Benefits:

• Flexible Workplace: Opportunities for flexible work arrangements, supporting a healthy work-life balance.

• Employee Ownership: Potential to become an employee-owner, fostering a sense of investment and shared success.

• Competitive Pay: A competitive hourly wage within the specified range, reflecting the role's seniority and expertise.

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits typically offered to full-time employees.

• Collaborative Environment: Access to a supportive team and cross-functional collaboration opportunities.

• Innovative Culture: An environment that encourages the adoption of new technologies and continuous improvement. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, common for full-time roles.

• The company emphasizes flexibility, allowing employees to build a workday that best suits their strengths and maintain a balance between work and personal life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided hourly range is specific and actionable. The benefits listed are standard but are highlighted for their relevance to employee well-being and professional engagement, which are key considerations for operations professionals. The flexibility in working hours is a significant operational perk.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Energy, Construction, Technology. Ulteig operates at the intersection of these sectors, focusing on transforming the world's critical infrastructure, including Power, Renewables, Transportation, and Water. This broad scope suggests a dynamic environment with diverse project challenges.

Company Size: Ulteig is a substantial organization, likely employing hundreds to thousands of individuals given its established presence and the scope of its operations. This size implies a structured environment with opportunities for growth and access to specialized teams.

Founded: Founded over 80 years ago, Ulteig has a long-standing history and a deep-rooted reputation for reliability and expertise in infrastructure development. This longevity suggests stability and a commitment to long-term client partnerships.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Designer will likely be part of a larger engineering or design department, potentially organized by discipline (e.g., electrical, civil) or by project.

• The reporting structure will involve reporting to an Engineering Manager or a similar senior operations leader who oversees design teams.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with project engineers, project managers, field technicians, and potentially client representatives. Methodology:

• Ulteig emphasizes a purpose-driven approach, focusing on people and creating solutions for a sustainable future.

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the use of advanced design tools and the need for efficiency.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially with the explicit mention of embracing AI tools for continuous improvement.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged to enhance design processes.

Company Website: Ulteig.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history, diversified industry focus, and emphasis on people and sustainability provide a strong context for the operational environment. The "purpose-driven" aspect suggests that employees are motivated by impact, a common trait in operations roles seeking to drive tangible improvements.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a senior individual contributor, a "Lead" designer. It signifies a level of expertise and responsibility beyond that of a standard designer, involving technical leadership, mentorship, and a proactive approach to process improvement. It's a crucial operational role that bridges technical execution and team enablement.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will report to a higher-level engineering manager or operations lead responsible for design services. This structure allows for direct oversight of design quality and adherence to project operational requirements.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is significant, directly influencing the accuracy, efficiency, and constructability of critical infrastructure projects. By providing expert design support and technical guidance, the Lead Designer ensures that projects meet stringent standards, contributing to Ulteig's reputation for reliability and client satisfaction. Their work is foundational to the successful execution of large-scale infrastructure developments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of substation design and advanced 3D modeling, potentially leading to senior technical specialist roles.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into formal management roles overseeing design teams or project engineering functions, leveraging mentorship experience.

• Technology Integration: A chance to become a champion for new technologies (AI, advanced modeling) within the design operations, potentially leading initiatives for tool adoption and process innovation.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Involvement in diverse projects across power, renewables, transportation, and water sectors, broadening understanding of infrastructure operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" title is a key indicator of career progression within a technical operations track, offering opportunities for both deep technical specialization and potential leadership. The emphasis on technology adoption signals a forward-thinking operational environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Ulteig offers a flexible workplace, suggesting a hybrid model. This means employees can expect to split their time between working remotely and in a physical office location.

Office Location(s): While the specific office locations are not detailed, the company operates across the United States, with a primary timezone indicated as America/Chicago. This suggests a network of offices supporting distributed teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The company culture fosters collaboration, meaning the office environment is likely designed to facilitate teamwork, brainstorming, and knowledge sharing among design professionals.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (AutoCAD, potential for Inventor, Bentley, Revit, etc.) and Microsoft Office Suite is a given. The company's openness to AI tools suggests they may provide or support the integration of cutting-edge technologies.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model implies structured opportunities for in-person team meetings, design reviews, and mentorship sessions, balanced with the autonomy of remote work.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, but Ulteig emphasizes flexibility. This allows operations professionals to tailor their schedules to optimize productivity and work-life balance, a crucial aspect for roles requiring focused concentration and data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Flexible Workplace" and hybrid model are significant operational considerations. They suggest a modern work environment that values employee autonomy while ensuring necessary collaboration for complex design operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of your resume and portfolio by a recruiter or hiring manager to assess technical qualifications and experience alignment.

• Technical Interview: Expect in-depth questions about your experience with AutoCAD, 3D modeling, substation design principles, and your approach to problem-solving in complex design scenarios. You may be asked to walk through specific examples from your portfolio.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: A key part of the process will be presenting selected projects from your portfolio. This may involve discussing your design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss your experience with site layout logistics and adherence to standards.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Questions will assess your ability to collaborate, work independently, embrace new technology (including AI), and align with Ulteig's values of Achieve, Grow, and Collaborate.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss overall fit and long-term career aspirations within Ulteig.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in substation design, AutoCAD, and 3D modeling. Ensure variety in complexity and scope.

• Focus on Process and Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the design challenge, your specific role and contributions, the processes you followed (including adherence to standards), the tools used, and the tangible outcomes or benefits achieved (e.g., efficiency gains, constructability improvements).

• Highlight Technical Detail: Be prepared to discuss the intricacies of electrical equipment layout, conduit design, grounding, and schematic development.

• Showcase Technology Adoption: If applicable, highlight projects where you utilized advanced features of software or explored innovative approaches like AI tools to enhance design efficiency or solve problems.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "reduced design time by X%", "improved constructability leading to Y% fewer site issues").

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be ready for a hypothetical design challenge, possibly involving a specific substation component or layout problem. Focus on your thought process, how you'd approach the problem systematically, and what information you'd need.

• Software Proficiency: Practice articulating your proficiency with AutoCAD and other relevant 3D software. Be prepared for questions about specific commands, features, or workflows.

• Collaboration Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you've collaborated with engineers, technicians, and other stakeholders on complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio, specific technical skills, and the integration of new technologies (AI) are critical for operations roles. This section provides actionable advice for candidates to prepare effectively.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: This is the core CAD software required. Proficiency in creating 2D drawings, 3D models, and managing drawing sets is essential.

• 3D Modeling Software: Demonstrated knowledge and experience with programs such as Inventor, Bentley, Solidworks, Revit, and SketchUp are highly valued. Candidates should be able to articulate their experience with these tools for infrastructure design.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for daily operations, including Outlook for communication, Word for documentation, Excel for data management and analysis, and PowerPoint for presentations. Access may be used for database management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as primary tools, proficiency in using Excel for data analysis and potentially creating basic reports or charts related to design tasks will be beneficial. The company's focus on efficiency may lead to the use of internal reporting tools. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but an understanding of how design outputs feed into broader project management or ERP systems could be an advantage. The mention of AI tools suggests an interest in workflow automation and efficiency gains.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of AutoCAD and a range of other 3D modeling software, alongside Microsoft Office, forms the technical backbone of this operational role. Highlighting experience with these specific tools is crucial for candidates.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Achieve: A drive for results and successful project completion, focusing on delivering high-quality designs on time.

• Grow: A commitment to continuous learning and professional development, embracing new technologies and expanding expertise in infrastructure design and operations.

• Collaborate: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and working effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Innovation: Embracing and applying evolving technology, including AI tools, to enhance workflows, solve problems, and drive continuous improvement within design processes.

• People-Focused: A culture that values employees, supports their needs, and prioritizes work-life balance and individual contributions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with engineers, project managers, and potentially field teams, requiring clear communication and a shared understanding of project objectives.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that likely encourages reviewing design processes and providing constructive feedback to ensure continuous improvement and adherence to best practices.

• Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to share expertise, particularly in advanced design techniques and technology adoption, contributing to the collective knowledge base of the design operations team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "ACHIEVE | GROW | COLLABORATE" tagline, combined with the emphasis on innovation and people, paints a picture of a dynamic and supportive operational environment. Candidates should demonstrate how their work ethic and approach align with these core values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Adapting to Evolving Technology: Staying current with rapidly advancing design software, AI tools, and industry best practices requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Managing design responsibilities across several infrastructure projects simultaneously, each with unique requirements and deadlines, can be demanding.

• Ensuring Constructability: Translating complex design plans into practical, buildable solutions that meet stringent site logistics and construction constraints.

• Adhering to Diverse Standards: Navigating and applying a variety of company, client, and project-specific standards and procedures effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of substation design, advanced modeling techniques, or emerging design software.

• AI and Technology Integration: Hands-on experience and training in applying AI tools and other innovative technologies to optimize design workflows and problem-solving.

• Mentorship and Leadership: Developing leadership skills through guiding junior designers and potentially taking on project lead responsibilities.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining exposure to diverse infrastructure sectors (Power, Renewables, Transportation, Water), broadening your understanding of the broader operational landscape.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges and linking them to growth opportunities provides a realistic and encouraging outlook for candidates, highlighting how the role fosters professional development within an operational context.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process Optimization: "Describe a time you identified an inefficiency in a design process and how you proposed or implemented a solution, perhaps using technology or AI. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your systematic approach and quantifiable results.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Tell me about a challenging project where you had to collaborate with engineers from different disciplines or with field teams. How did you ensure clear communication and alignment on design requirements?" (Highlight your communication strategies and ability to manage diverse perspectives.)

• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a complex design problem you encountered on a substation project. What was your thought process for diagnosing the issue, what solutions did you consider, and what was your final recommendation?" (Demonstrate your analytical skills and technical depth.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Innovation: "The job description mentions embracing AI tools. Can you share any experience or ideas you have about how AI could be applied to substation design or infrastructure planning?" (Showcase your forward-thinking mindset and understanding of operational technology.)

• Team Dynamics: "How do you approach mentoring junior designers or technicians, and what is your preferred method of collaboration within a team?" (Align your answers with Ulteig's values of Grow and Collaborate.)

• Impact Measurement: "How do you ensure your designs meet project objectives and contribute to successful construction? Can you provide an example of how your design work had a positive impact on a project's outcome?" (Focus on tangible results and operational efficiency.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, follow a clear story: Problem -> Your Solution (Process & Tools) -> Results (Quantifiable Impact).

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss specific AutoCAD features, 3D modeling techniques, and the rationale behind your design choices for electrical layout, conduit, grounding, etc.

• Emphasize Process Adherence & Improvement: Show how you consistently applied standards and identify any instances where you improved processes or workflows.

• Showcase Technology Integration: Discuss any use of advanced software features or AI tools that enhanced your design work.

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared to answer questions and have a conversation, rather than just delivering a monologue.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides concrete examples of interview questions relevant to an operations-focused design role, emphasizing process, technology, and collaboration, which are critical for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Ulteig careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of infrastructure design experience, specific expertise in substation electrical design (layout, conduit, grounding, schematics), and proficiency with AutoCAD and other relevant 3D modeling software. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that demonstrate your technical skills, process adherence, and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to articulate the impact of your work and your experience with site logistics and technology adoption.

• Research Ulteig: Familiarize yourself with Ulteig's mission, values (Achieve, Grow, Collaborate), and the types of infrastructure projects they undertake. Understand their focus on people and sustainability.

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your technical expertise, leadership potential, and alignment with Ulteig's culture. Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and effectively.

⚠️ 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.