Lead Substation Commissioning Specialist

DLB Associates

4d•$140,000 - $185,000•Remote

About The Position

The Lead Substation Commissioning Specialist oversees the full life-cycle commissioning of electrical substations, ensuring newly constructed or upgraded substations are operational and meet industry standards. The role involves reviewing design documents, coordinating with construction and engineering teams, and testing and validating substation systems, including transformers, breakers, relays, and control systems. The specialist works independently on day-to-day activities with high-level instruction for new projects or assignments, leads complex commissioning projects and teams, and coordinates the work of other personnel. The role is remote, with travel to project sites across the United States of up to 75%; travel varies with project status and does not generally involve staying in one location for extended periods. Potential relocation and international travel may arise based on project needs. The specialist communicates and works in alignment with organizational goals, values, and departmental objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction, or a related discipline; alternatively, two years of electrical substation commissioning experience plus a minimum of eight additional years of such experience.
Substation commissioning experience, including testing and troubleshooting transformers, protection relays, circuit breakers, and SCADA systems, as applicable to the education/experience pathway.
Experience working with utility companies or large-scale industrial electrical systems.
Advanced knowledge of substation electrical equipment, protection, and control systems.
Knowledge of regulatory standards, including IEEE, NERC, and FERC compliance requirements.
Skill using power system analysis software, protection coordination tools, and SCADA integration.
Proficiency with MS Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Teams, and strong file-management and organizational skills.
Accuracy and attention to detail when completing assignments.
Ability to use AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows, optimize operational processes, and contribute to company-wide innovation.
Ability to work remotely through effective communication and organization, self-motivation, proactiveness, and resourcefulness in a distraction-free workspace.
Ability to follow company and site safety requirements.
Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports, and correspondence.
Effective oral and written communication skills for technical and non-technical information, including communication with clients and serving as a primary client contact when needed.
Ability to work independently with moderate supervision and as a team member.
Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines.
Ability to plan and delegate the work of others.
Ability to obtain NFPA 70E and/or OSHA training certification if required.
Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Valid driver’s license and ability to rent vehicles.
Valid REAL ID or acceptable alternative, such as a passport, for domestic air travel associated with the position beginning May 7, 2025.

Nice To Haves

Experience with an Omicron test unit.

Responsibilities

Perform on-site inspection, validation, functional testing, verification, and troubleshooting of electrical equipment, including transformers, switchgear, protection relays, and control systems.
Participate in factory witness testing and observe startup activities.
Use technical equipment to conduct testing; Omicron test unit experience is a plus but is not required.
Direct vendors and contractors in testing execution.
Manage and deliver projects effectively and on time.
Identify project risks and help develop strategies to minimize impacts and control deviations from estimated costs and deadlines.
Serve as the primary site contact for clients and build long-term client relationships.
Onboard project teams for mobilization and provide ongoing updates.
Develop commissioning plans, pre-functional checklists, and functional performance test scripts.
Review shop drawings, submittals, sequences of operations, and other substation design documents and specifications.
Lead and participate in commissioning-focused design reviews.
Direct and assist with project communication and reporting.
Prepare and oversee progress reports for internal and external stakeholders and the final commissioning report for the client.
Manage personal and site-team hours using company tools.
Complete assigned tasks and deliverables on time and within budget.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Choice of comprehensive medical plans, including two PPO-style plans and a high-deductible health plan with HSA option.
Flexible spending accounts (FSA).
Dental and vision plans.
Medical, dental, and vision benefits extended to a spouse or domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26.
401(k) with company match and self-directed brokerage account option.
PTO, including additional paid time off during the last week of the year.
Company-paid life insurance for employees and eligible dependents.
Short- and long-term disability and AD&D coverage.
Professional development opportunities.
Tuition reimbursement.
Professional licensing assistance.
Paid parental leave after one year of employment.