Project Manager - Substation

Location(s)

Charlotte, NC

Compensation

125-150k

Position Summary

This role is for an experienced Substation Project Manager responsible for leading the full lifecycle of electrical substation projects, from planning and engineering coordination through construction, testing, and final energization. The position serves as the primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders while ensuring projects are delivered safely, on schedule, and within budget. The ideal candidate brings strong technical knowledge of substation systems, proven project management experience, and the ability to coordinate cross-functional teams, contractors, and field operations in a fast-paced environment.

 Job Function

• Manage end-to-end delivery of substation projects, including greenfield, brownfield, upgrades, and expansions
• Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and forecasts
• Ensure compliance with project scope, contract terms, and change management procedures
• Lead project kickoff meetings, progress reviews, and closeout activities
• Coordinate with engineering teams on substation design, including HV/MV equipment, protection and control, and civil/structural components
• Review drawings, specifications, and technical submittals for accuracy and compliance
• Support procurement of key equipment, including transformers, breakers, relays, steel, and control buildings
• Oversee construction activities, including site preparation, foundations, steel erection, equipment installation, wiring, and testing
• Coordinate subcontractors, inspectors, and commissioning teams to ensure successful execution
• Resolve field issues, RFIs, and constructability challenges
• Enforce site-specific safety plans and company safety policies
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, NFPA 70E, NESC, and applicable utility standards
• Promote a strong safety culture and conduct job hazard analyses (JHAs)
• Serve as the primary client interface for schedule, cost, and technical matters
• Prepare and present project status reports to stakeholders
• Coordinate with utilities, authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), and permitting agencies
• Track project costs, labor, and productivity
• Manage change orders, claims, and contract amendments
• Support invoicing, cost-to-complete tracking, and project closeout documentation

 Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing electrical substation or transmission and distribution (T&D) projects

 Qualifications

• Strong understanding of substation construction, testing, and commissioning processes
• Proven experience managing project schedules, budgets, and subcontractors
• Proficiency with project management tools such as MS Project, Primavera P6, Procore, or similar
• Willingness to travel to project sites (approximately 25–50% or more, depending on workload)
• Utility-scale or EPC substation experience preferred
• Experience with high-voltage systems ranging from 69kV to 500kV preferred
• PMP certification or equivalent preferred
• Familiarity with protection and control systems and relay testing is preferred 

Appealing Facts About Living in Charlotte, NC

• Major financial hub and one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeast
• Strong job market with opportunities in energy, engineering, and infrastructure sectors
• Affordable cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas
• Access to outdoor activities, including nearby mountains and lakes
• Vibrant food, arts, and sports scene with year-round events and entertainment
• Convenient travel with a major international airport hub

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Global Talent Resources, Inc. (GTR) is a power industry recruiting firm specializing in substation, transmission, and distribution careers. With 15+ years of experience, we connect engineering and leadership professionals to top roles with leading utilities, cooperatives, EPCs, and consulting firms nationwide.

Many opportunities aren’t listed publicly. Contact the GTR team for insider access, expert guidance, and the next step in your electric utility career.