Sr. Design Technician/Electrical Drafter

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories • Houston, TX

6d

About The Position

Develop detailed physical and electrical designs, bills of materials, and project estimates under the guidance of technical leads. Create and maintain CAD drawings and other engineering documentation, and provide design engineering support to project teams throughout design and execution. Prepare technical specifications and supporting documentation for review. Complete assigned work safely, accurately, on schedule, and within budget. Develop and maintain knowledge of SEL products, solutions, and industry design practices, and build expertise in electric power system protection, automation, and control solutions. Support, mentor, and train interns, drafters, and entry-level designers. Identify opportunities to improve processes, tools, and workflows, and support company values, operational principles, and continuous improvement initiatives. Other duties may be assigned.

The role requires an associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology (EET), CAD, Drafting, or a related discipline, although equivalent experience may be considered. Candidates need at least six years of high-voltage electrical design experience, including multiple projects involving protective relay control systems, and advanced proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD or MicroStation. Travel may be required as needed. Successful completion of required background screening and drug testing is required.

Preferred qualifications include a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electrical engineering technology, or a related engineering or design field; experience testing and commissioning protective relay, process control, and SCADA systems; experience with electric utilities, consulting engineering firms, or system integrators; and knowledge of power system protection, protective relay applications, automation systems, substation design, or control system integration.

SEL is 100% employee owned. New hires generally start between $92,000 and $136,000. Starting pay depends on location and job-related factors such as experience, training, knowledge, and skills. The company offers retirement benefits, insurance, paid leave, and employee development opportunities.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology (EET), CAD, Drafting, or a related discipline; equivalent experience may be considered in place of formal education.
• Six or more years of experience in high-voltage electrical design, including multiple projects involving protective relay control systems.
• Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar CAD software.
• Working knowledge of installation requirements for a variety of protective relays and control systems.
• Ability to learn and apply technical product concepts and engineering standards.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and take ownership of assigned responsibilities.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to learn new skills and adapt to changing project requirements.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
• Successful completion of required background screening and drug testing.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Electrical Engineering Technology (BSET), or a related engineering or design field.
• Experience testing and commissioning protective relay, process control, and SCADA systems.
• Experience working with electric utilities, consulting engineering firms, or system integrators.
• Knowledge of power system protection, protective relay applications, and/or automation systems.
• Familiarity with substation design and control system integration.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed physical and electrical designs, bills of materials, and project estimates under the guidance of technical leads.
• Create and maintain CAD drawings and other engineering documentation.
• Provide design engineering support to project teams throughout the design and execution phases.
• Prepare technical specifications and supporting documentation for review.
• Complete assigned work safely, accurately, on schedule, and within budget.
• Develop and maintain working knowledge of SEL products, solutions, and industry design practices.
• Support, mentor, and train interns, drafters, and entry-level designers.
• Build expertise in electric power system protection, automation, and control solutions.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, tools, and workflows, and recommend enhancements.
• Support and uphold company values, operational principles, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Employer-funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.
• Medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• 10 paid holidays.
• Annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days.
• 9 paid sick days.
• Paid family and medical leave covering 90% of pay.
• STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.
• Wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree