Lead Substation Engineer

Overview

Hybrid
Depends on Experience
Accepts corp to corp applications
Contract - W2
Contract - Independent
No Travel Required

Skills

Electrical Engineering
Transmission & Distribution (T&D)
NERC
transformers
breakers
relays
and substation auxiliary systems

Job Details

Lead Substation Engineer / Asset Health SME

Role Overview: We are seeking an experienced Lead Substation Engineer / Asset Health SME will serve as the technical lead for Utility Organization s substation asset health assessment program. This role is responsible for overseeing the inspection, diagnostics, and evaluation of critical substation equipment, interpreting results, and guiding risk-based recommendations. The SME will ensure assessments are executed using industry best practices, advanced diagnostic techniques, and utility standards, while supporting the development of a prioritized asset risk and reliability roadmap for the Utilities ~200 substations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead technical planning and execution of the Asset Health Assessment across substations, starting with Phase 1 (10 substations).
  • Perform and oversee condition assessments on major equipment, including:
    • Power transformers (DGA, thermography, acoustic/vibration testing).
    • Circuit breakers (oil, SF, vacuum).
    • Instrument transformers, disconnect switches, protective relays, grounding systems, busbars, and auxiliaries.
  • Apply diagnostic tools such as infrared thermography, partial discharge testing, insulation resistance, and contact resistance testing.
  • Conduct Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and identify risks related to asset condition, probability of failure, and consequence of failure.
  • Develop and validate the Condition Index and Risk Matrix for prioritizing maintenance and capital investments.
  • Benchmark Utility s inspection and maintenance practices against NERC, IEEE, IEC, and industry standards.
  • Provide technical oversight to field teams, ensuring testing protocols and safety standards are followed.
  • Support creation of a digital asset health database with geotagged images, metadata, and inspection results.
  • Collaborate with reliability engineers, data analysts, and project managers to ensure deliverables are completed on time.
  • Contribute to interim and final reports, providing expert recommendations for repair, replacement, or enhanced monitoring strategies.
  • Present findings to stakeholders and participate in workshops with partner network.

Qualifications

  • Experience: Minimum 10+ years in substation engineering, asset health assessments, or T&D equipment diagnostics.
  • In-depth technical expertise in transformers, breakers, relays, and substation auxiliary systems.
  • Strong background in diagnostic testing methods, condition monitoring, and asset risk modeling.
  • Familiarity with predictive maintenance strategies, digital asset management tools, and reliability-centered maintenance.
  • Knowledge of regulatory standards and practices (NERC, IEEE, IEC, OSHA, NFPA 70E).
  • Strong analytical and reporting skills with ability to translate technical results into actionable recommendations.
  • Prior experience with utility asset management programs or consulting engagements preferred.
  • Education: Bachelor s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or related field (Master s preferred).

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No Phone Calls Please

Please send us your resume in a word file with contact details

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