Principal Substation Physical Engineer

Leidos Holding$131K — $237K *
Energy & Utilities
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or related engineering field.
  • 12+ years of progressive substation physical design experience with leadership roles.
  • Deep understanding of power generation, transmission, and distribution systems.
  • Expertise in advanced engineering studies: grounding, arc flash, lightning, AC/DC load, volt-drop, and protection analysis.
  • Mastery of HV/MV physical design including DC systems, station service, and auxiliary power.
  • Florida Professional Engineer (PE) license.

Responsibilities

  • Lead conceptual and detailed HV/MV substation physical/electrical design for utility projects.
  • Review and guide advanced technical studies including grounding and protection analyses.
  • Develop and enforce technical specifications and design criteria across projects.
  • Lead quality control reviews for major substation design packages.
  • Oversee bill of materials development and proposal strategies for projects.
  • Provide high-level technical coaching and support engineer growth.
  • Act as a senior technical representative in client meetings and project reviews.

Benefits

  • Hybrid schedule with 3 days a week in the Orlando office.
  • Networking events for industry connections.
  • Access to continuous development training and conferences.
  • Flexibility for remote work on non-office days.
Full Job Description
We are looking for a Principal Substation Physical Engineer to join our team. As a Principal Substation Physical Engineer, you will serve as a technical authority and strategic leader in the design and delivery of complex HV and MV substation projects. You will guide engineering direction, elevate technical standards, mentor future leaders, and influence client and organizational decisions that shape the future of the grid.

*Hybrid Schedule: 3 days a week in the Orlando, FL office)
  • 2-3 Days of In-Person Connection: Build strong relationships with colleagues and clients by being in the office or on-site. It's the perfect way to strengthen collaboration and ensure seamless communication.
  • Networking Events: Expand your horizons and make valuable connections at industry-leading events. You'll be in the right rooms, with the right people, at the right time.
  • Continuous Development: Stay at the forefront of innovation by participating in top-tier training programs and conferences. Personal growth isn't optional here; it's part of the package.
  • The Best of Both Worlds: With the flexibility to work remotely on other days, you'll have the freedom to focus, recharge, and bring your A-game to every opportunity.


The Challenge:

  • Lead conceptual and detailed HV/MV substation physical/electrical design for medium-to-large utility projects, establishing design approaches, standards, and best practices.
  • Review, validate, and guide advanced technical studies including grounding, arc flash, lightning, AC/DC load, and protection-related analyses.
  • Develop, refine, and enforce technical specifications, design criteria, and equipment standards across multiple projects and teams.
  • Lead QC reviews for major substation physical design packages, ensuring accuracy, constructability, and compliance with industry standards.
  • Oversee bill of materials development, cost estimates, and proposal strategies for high-value substation projects.
  • Provide high-level technical coaching, lead training initiatives, and support the growth of engineers at all levels.
  • Act as a senior technical representative in client meetings, site visits, and project reviews, ensuring alignment and customer satisfaction.
  • Work closely with internal teams, project managers, and leadership to drive project success and organizational improvement.


What You Bring:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or related engineering field.
  • 12+ years of progressive substation physical design experience, with demonstrated leadership on medium-to-large utility projects.
  • Deep understanding of power generation, transmission, and distribution systems.
  • Expertise in advanced engineering studies: grounding, arc flash, lightning, AC/DC load, volt-drop, and protection-related analyses.
  • Mastery of HV/MV physical design including DC systems, station service, batteries, switchgear, chargers, ATS/MTS, AC systems, and auxiliary power.
  • Proven ability to size major equipment, select materials, and guide procurement decisions.
  • Experience supporting construction, commissioning, and field engineering.
  • Strong knowledge of IEEE, ANSI, NERC, and FERC standards and regulatory frameworks.
  • Florida Professional Engineer (PE) license.


You May Also Have:
  • Master's degree in a related field.
  • Working knowledge of protection and control design.
  • Experience with rigid bus calculations.
  • Familiarity with WinIGS or CDEGS modeling tools.


How You'll Grow in This Principal Role:

  • Lead and influence high-visibility, high-impact projects
  • Expand your leadership through technical and non-technical training opportunities.
  • Shape the next generation of engineers through our mentorship program.
  • Deepen your expertise in power system calculations, NESC, and emerging grid technologies.


Original Posting:
June 16, 2026

Pay Range:
Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

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Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

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Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

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At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

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Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

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