Mid-Level Grid Modernization Engineer

WSP • Richmond, VA

5d

About The Position

WSP is seeking a Lead Professional Electrical Engineer specializing in grid modernization for its Richmond, Virginia office; Fort Mill, South Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia, are also considered. The role is part of the Distribution Advanced Studies Team and supports electric utility clients through project-based work focused primarily on distribution grid modernization.

The engineer will lead the development and review of modernization solutions for utility distribution systems. Programs and applications include FLISR, volt-var optimization, distribution resiliency, ADMS, transportation electrification, DER solutions, and advanced planning techniques. The work includes coordinating with utility clients, internal teams, stakeholders, and technology vendors to evaluate system needs and provide practical recommendations that improve reliability, resilience, efficiency, and operational performance.

The position includes technical and project leadership, project team development and mentorship, client and stakeholder relationship building, schedule and budget tracking, proposal and business development support, and communication of technical findings. Some travel is expected. The role may also support other disciplines, including protection, planning, and SCADA. The employee must exercise responsible and ethical judgment and follow WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 7–10 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 researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing and presenting recommendations.
• Ability to work across teams, perform assigned tasks independently, and take initiative to learn new topics.
• Strong command of English and demonstrated written and oral communication skills, including presenting information, facilitating meetings, and providing direction to others.
• Ability to successfully pass client background screening processes.
• Proven record of upholding workplace safety and ability to comply with WSP’s health, safety, drug/alcohol, and harassment policies.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Engineering.
• Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
• Experience managing small- to mid-size projects.
• 40-hour OSHA Health & Safety Training (HAZWOPER), 29 CFR 1910.120.
• Basic First Aid and Adult CPR training.

Responsibilities

• Plan, justify, and provide ongoing support for utility distribution grid modernization programs, including FLISR, volt-var optimization, distribution resiliency, ADMS, transportation electrification, DER solutions, and advanced planning techniques.
• Lead the development and review of grid modernization solutions for utility distribution systems.
• Build collaborative relationships with utility clients, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams; develop study assumptions, align project objectives, and support successful outcomes.
• Lead complex grid modernization initiatives and develop project execution frameworks and delivery approaches.
• Build and develop project teams through coaching, technical mentorship, and project leadership.
• Develop and communicate technical insights using visualization and reporting tools to support client decisions.
• Provide technical leadership for strategic initiatives and build trust with clients and internal stakeholders through sound engineering judgment and consistent delivery.
• Track project schedules and budgets.
• Collaborate across disciplines on proposal development and business development opportunities.
• Participate in industry working groups and standards committees, including IEEE, CIGRE, IEC, and ANSI.
• Contribute to technical papers and deliver presentations at industry conferences.
• Learn and support other disciplines such as protection, planning, and SCADA.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and follow WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life coverage.
• Retirement savings.
• Paid sick leave.
• Paid vacation or other personal time.
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid time off for bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level