Job Description

As a Lead Substation Protection & Control (P&C) Engineering Specialist, you'll play a key role in leading the design and delivery of complex substation projects that ensure the reliability, safety, and efficiency of power systems. You'll have the opportunity to drive innovation in protection and control systems, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate directly with clients and stakeholders on high-profile energy projects.

This is a hybrid role and can be based out of one of CDM Smith's offices, offering both flexibility and the chance to work closely with top engineering talent across the firm. Preferred location is Irvine, CA, Los Angeles, CA or CDM Smith U.S. locations may be considered based on candidate qualifications.

Lead Substation P&C Engineering Specialist:

• Lead diverse and challenging projects in power systems, facility design, and renewable energy solutions.
• Own the full project lifecycle, from concept design to regulatory compliance and client delivery.
• Build expertise in power studies, electrical calculations, lighting design, communications, fire alarm, and security systems.
• Contribute thought leadership through white papers, technical publications, and industry conference participation.
• Provide trainings based on client and industry standards.
• Perform detailed reviews of project designs to meet both client and industry standards.
• Collaborate with sales and clients to shape proposals and deliver innovative solutions.
• Take the lead as the primary client contact, enhancing relationships and trust.
• Grow as a leader by mentoring and supervising junior engineers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree.
• 12 years of related experience.
• Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a college degree.
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with substation engineering and detailed design for high-voltage projects up to 345kV.
• Expertise in protective relay schemes and relay schematics/wiring diagrams.
• Skilled in developing equipment specifications and selection for substation projects.
• Proficiency in hardware specifications and selection, including SCADA/RTU components.
• Strong knowledge of NESC (National Electrical Safety Code) and NEC (National Electrical Code).
• Experience in substation grounding grid design and lightning protection systems.

Amount of Travel Required

10% or less
Pay Range Min

USD $138,258.00
Pay Range Max

USD $241,966.00
Additional Pay Range Information

CDM Smith is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This pay range is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels for the geographic location assigned to the position. In addition to geographic location, a candidate's salary is determined by several other factors including, but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, relevant work experience, skills, required certifications, and education/training.
Additional Compensation

All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Visa Sponsorship Available

No-We will not support sponsorship in the United States, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
Agency Disclaimer

All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Team will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.