The Substation Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing electrical substation projects safely, on schedule, and within budget. This role manages all phases of substation construction-including engineering coordination, procurement, construction, testing, and energization-while serving as the primary point of contact for clients, utilities, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
Key ResponsibilitiesProject Management & Execution- Manage end-to-end delivery of substation projects (greenfield, brownfield, upgrades, expansions)
- Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and forecasts
- Ensure compliance with scope, contract terms, and change management procedures
- Lead project kickoff meetings, progress reviews, and closeout activities
Engineering & Technical Coordination- Coordinate with engineering teams on substation design (HV/MV equipment, protection & control, civil/structural)
- Review drawings, specifications, and technical submittals
- Support equipment procurement including transformers, breakers, relays, steel, and control buildings
Construction & Field Oversight- Oversee construction activities including site prep, foundations, steel erection, equipment installation, wiring, and testing
- Coordinate subcontractors, inspectors, and commissioning teams
- Resolve field issues, RFIs, and constructability challenges
Safety & Compliance- Enforce site-specific safety plans and company safety policies
- Ensure compliance with OSHA, NFPA 70E, NESC, and utility standards
- Promote a strong safety culture and conduct job hazard analyses (JHAs)
Client & Stakeholder Management- Serve as primary client interface for schedule, cost, and technical matters
- Prepare and present project status reports
- Coordinate with utilities, AHJs, and permitting agencies
Financial & Contract Management- Track project costs, labor, and productivity
- Manage change orders, claims, and contract amendments
- Support invoicing, cost-to-complete, and project closeout documentation
QualificationsRequired- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5+ years of experience managing electrical substation or T&D projects
- Strong understanding of substation construction, testing, and commissioning
- Proven experience managing schedules, budgets, and subcontractors
- Proficiency with project management tools (MS Project, Primavera P6, Procore, or similar)
- Willingness to travel to project sites (25-50%+ depending on workload)
Preferred- Utility-scale or EPC substation experience
- Experience with high-voltage systems (69kV-500kV)
- PMP certification or equivalent
- Familiarity with protection & control systems and relay testing
