Mid-Level Grid Modernization Engineer
About the role
WSP is currently initiating a search for a Mid-Level Grid Mod Engineer for our Richmond, VA office. The following locations will also be considered: Fort Mill, SC, Atlanta, GA.
Be involved in projects with our Distribution Advanced Studies Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges. This role offers an opportunity to support a broad range of project-based work for electric utility clients, with a primary focus on distribution grid modernization. The selected candidate will contribute to developing and reviewing grid modernization solutions for utility distribution systems, including FLISR, volt-var optimization, distribution resiliency, ADMS, DER solutions, and advanced planning applications. Work will involve collaborating with utility clients, internal project teams, and technology vendors to evaluate system needs, apply engineering judgment, and deliver practical recommendations that improve reliability, resilience, efficiency, and operational performance. This is a strong fit for an engineer who enjoys solving technical challenges, working across multiple projects, and building expertise as a trusted grid modernization resource within a collaborative advanced studies team.
Responsibilities
- The qualified candidate will be responsible for the modernization of the utility distribution systems, this includes planning, justification, and on-going support of the following Distribution Grid Modernization Programs:
- FLISR (Fault, Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration)
- Volt-Var Optimization or other similar programs (IVVC, CVR)
- Distribution Resiliency
- ADMS (Advance Distribution Management Systems)
- Electrification of Transportation
- DER Solutions (DERMS, NWA/NWS, Hosting Capacity)
- Advance Planning Techniques (8760, Quasi Static Time Series Analysis)
- Maintain effective working relationships with utility clients, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to support successful project outcomes.
- Lead complex grid modernization initiatives while building project execution frameworks and delivery approaches that improve consistency, quality, and scalability across the practice.
- Assist in development of project teams through coaching, technical mentorship, and project leadership that advances employee growth and client satisfaction.
- Develop and communicate technical insights through effective visualization and reporting tools that support client decision-making and strengthen WSP's technical reputation.
- Provide technical leadership for strategic initiatives while building trust with clients and internal stakeholders through sound engineering judgment and consistent project delivery.
- Track project schedules and budgets.
- Collaborate with professionals and other engineers across disciplines on proposal and business development opportunities.
- Build WSP's technical leadership and industry presence through active participation in industry working groups and standards committees (IEEE, CIGRE, IEC, ANSI).
- Contribute to the development of technical papers and deliver presentations at industry conferences to share knowledge, promote industry best practices, and enhance WSP's technical reputation.
- Some travel should be expected.
- Ability to learn/support other disciplines such as Protection, Planning, and SCADA.
- Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
- Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience).
- 5 to 7 years of relevant post education experience as an electrical engineer providing design deliverables for large capital projects.
- Understanding of basic to advanced engineering theories and principles, including understanding of basic practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting recommendations.
- Ability to work across teams, is