Job Summary
The Substation Physical Designer Consultant is responsible for providing substation grounding, lightning protection, and related technical studies supporting Southern Company operating companies. This role focuses on the design, analysis, review, and validation of grounding and lightning protection systems for transmission and distribution substations.
The successful candidate will also present study results to senior leadership, management, and internal/external stakeholders, and provide technical guidance, quality assurance, and standardization support across substation design teams.
Key Responsibilities
Design and develop substation grounding systems, direct stroke shielding, overhead ground wire sizing, and lightning protection studies
Create comprehensive, optimized substation grounding designs and technical reports
Perform ground grid integrity testing and investigate lightning-related events
Conduct Quality Assurance (QA) reviews, provide technical training, and offer developmental feedback to designers and engineers
Support and manage Substation General Physical standard drawings and details
Develop and enhance standards, processes, and best practices for substation grounding and physical design
Support Southern Company’s design criteria and standardization initiatives
Provide technical guidance on grounding materials and design approaches to less-experienced staff
Coordinate and collaborate with other substation design disciplines
Provide technical support to:
Substation Construction
Field Services
Project Management
Substation Maintenance
Transmission Planning
Protection & Control Applications
Interface with manufacturers, vendors, and internal committees to resolve equipment and material issues
Present technical findings and study results to leadership, management, and customers
Manage multiple projects simultaneously using strong time management and organizational skills
Promote and lead with a “Safety First” mindset, making safety the top priority at all times
Required Qualifications
Candidates must meet one of the following:
4-year Engineering Technology degree, OR
2-year technical degree with 10+ years of related experience, OR
20+ years of significant related experience in substation grounding and physical design
Preferred Qualifications
Strong experience with substation grounding and lightning protection design
Knowledge of transmission and distribution substation systems
Experience supporting utility standards and design criteria
Strong communication and presentation skills
Ability to work independently and provide leadership in a consulting environment
Work Environment
Engineering and consulting-focused role
High collaboration with utility stakeholders and cross-functional teams
Emphasis on safety, quality, and technical excellence