Substation Physical Engineering Team Leader

About the Role

HDR is seeking a dynamic and experienced Substation Physical Engineering Team Leader to lead and grow our nationally ranked Power Delivery team in North Carolina, based in either our Charlotte or Asheville office. This technical leadership role focuses on the knowledge and execution of the technical aspects and deliverables of assigned projects. As a key member of our NC Power Delivery management team, you will shape the future of HDR’s substation practice in the North Carolina area and beyond, contributing to reliable, resilient, and sustainable power systems.

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected. This role empowers you to bring your authentic self and novel ideas to work every day, driving infrastructure forward and leaving your mark on our energy future.

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop a high-performing substation physical engineering team, including assigning responsibilities, mentoring junior staff, and fostering a collaborative culture focused on technical excellence, innovation, and accountability.
• Oversee the technical execution of substation projects, ensuring quality, timeliness, and budget compliance while planning and allocating resources for junior staff.
• Assist with developing proposals, including technical writing and project estimating within your area of expertise.
• Support the Substation Business Class Manager’s growth strategies by identifying and developing specific technical expertise.
• Attend trainings to further develop understanding of complex concepts related to your discipline.
• Collaborate with Client Managers, Operational Managers, and Technical Leaders to ensure seamless integration of services and consistent delivery of world-class solutions.
• Manage commercial aspects of small to medium-sized projects, including clients, contracts, and hiring staff for an engineering consulting firm.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in substation design or related Power industry work.
• Professional registration, license, or certification may be required based on role.
• Strong communication, listening, and leadership skills.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments and manage teams effectively.
• Commitment to being an active participant in our employee-owned culture.

Preferred Qualifications

• 10 years of substation design experience.
• Extensive experience in project execution within the Power industry.
• Self-starter with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Previous experience with an engineering consulting firm.
• Experience managing commercial aspects of small to medium-sized projects.
• Client relationships in the Carolinas; local candidates are preferred.
• Previous experience managing staff, clients, contracts, and hiring for an engineering consulting firm.

Location

This role is based in either our Charlotte or Asheville, North Carolina office. Other potential locations include Winston-Salem, Raleigh, or Wilmington.

Our Culture

At HDR, we build on each other’s life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. Our collaborative culture encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve. As employee-owners, we all play a role in creating an inclusive environment where everyone is welcomed, valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) foster a sense of belonging and provide a supportive environment for all employees. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.