Director, Substation Engineering & Design

natgridProd•Webster, MA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

National Grid is seeking a Director for its Substation Engineering & Design department in Northborough, MA, requiring 3+ days in office. The company focuses on delivering safe and secure energy, connecting communities, and shaping a sustainable future by anticipating customer needs and pioneering flexible energy systems. The Director of Substation Engineering & Design (SED) is responsible for the strategic leadership, development, and delivery of substation engineering and design services for the New England Electric business. This role is crucial for developing innovative, reliable, and cost-effective substation solutions that enhance system reliability, asset performance, and long-term grid modernization. It is central to executing National Grid’s New England Electric capital plan, aiming to reduce risk, enable timely construction, modernize the grid, and support long-term asset strategies, all while adhering to regulatory, safety, and environmental requirements.

Requirements

A Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline required
10+ years of experience in the technical, operations, or engineering aspects of the electric utility industry with a strong background in electrical systems required
3+ years of managerial/supervisory experience required
Sound knowledge and experience in high and low voltage electrical systems
Understanding of substation equipment, engineering/design, and advanced technologies
Committed people leader with track record of nurturing talent and increasing engagement
Proven track record in the development and implementation continuous improvement
Senior stakeholder management, influence, and engagement
Leading business change effectively within a complex organization / program or project.
Understanding and anticipating current and future customer needs.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
Demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets and multiple concurrent projects.
Experience with regulatory compliance and risk management in distribution and asset operations.

Nice To Haves

PE License is preferred
Advanced degree preferred

Responsibilities

Lead and develop a multi-discipline engineering organization responsible for substation electrical design, O&M services, and civil/structural design.
Establish and execute substation engineering strategy aligned with investment plans and system needs.
Establish clear priorities, workload planning, and performance expectations.
Coach and develop technical capability, supporting progression of leaders and technical talent; manage succession planning and workforce capability.
Oversee engineering and design for substation new builds, rebuilds, end‑of‑life replacements, and technology upgrades.
Ensure engineering packages are complete, constructible, and aligned with project milestones and Playbook requirements.
Ensure adherence to engineering standards, Safety by Design principles, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Drive continuous improvement in design practices, digital engineering tools, and standardization.
Manage SED budgets, workforce planning, and use of outsourced engineering and design partners.
Balance internal capability development with effective use of external resources.
Provide governance over technical decisions, design approvals, and complex engineering challenges.
Ensure compliance with internal requirements and external codes and standards (e.g., NESC, NEC, IEEE).
Drive continuous improvement in QA/QC, design consistency, and lessons learned.
Champion innovation, including grid modernization technologies, digital substations, and advanced asset monitoring.
Interface with Project Management, Construction, Procurement, and external engineering partners to ensure seamless project execution.
Oversee engineering consultant performance and external design resources under master service agreements.
Represent engineering in regulatory proceedings, stakeholder engagement, and executive-level reporting.
Collaborate with system operators and planning organizations to support interconnection and reliability requirements.
Build and lead a high-performing engineering organization, including hiring, development, and succession planning.
Foster a culture of safety, accountability, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
Mentor engineering leaders and promote knowledge sharing across disciplines.
Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching to team members, supporting their professional growth.
Develop and manage annual operating budgets for the Substation Engineering & Design department.
Monitor expenditures, identify cost-saving opportunities, and efficiencies.
Support financial analysis, investment appraisals, and business case development for major projects and initiatives.