Application Guide

How to Apply for Electrical Engineer II- Power Focused

at Interstates

🏢 About Interstates

Interstates is a family-owned company that values teamwork, quality work, and community impact. They offer a supportive culture with opportunities for growth and meaningful projects in the electrical, controls, and automation industry.

About This Role

As an Electrical Engineer II, you will be responsible for creating detailed designs for industrial power systems, leading design efforts, and coordinating with various teams to ensure project success. Your work will directly impact the efficiency and safety of industrial facilities.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with reviewing project specifications and emails, then diving into CAD or power analysis software to refine designs. You'll likely have virtual meetings with the project team, vendors, or clients to discuss design progress, and you might schedule a site visit to verify conditions or support construction. Throughout the day, you'll ensure your designs meet codes and standards, and you'll collaborate with engineers from other disciplines to integrate your power systems seamlessly.

🎯 Who Interstates Is Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
  • 3-5 years of experience in power systems design, with a focus on industrial or commercial projects
  • Proficiency in power system analysis software (e.g., SKM, ETAP) and AutoCAD
  • Strong knowledge of electrical codes (NEC, NFPA) and ability to apply them in design

📝 Tips for Applying to Interstates

1

Highlight specific power-focused projects you've worked on, detailing your role and the impact

2

Showcase your experience with design-build and plan-spec delivery methods in your resume

3

Mention any experience with site visits and coordinating with construction teams

4

Tailor your resume to emphasize 'constructable' designs and attention to detail

5

If you have experience with controls or automation, include it, as Interstates values cross-disciplinary skills

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your passion for power systems and industrial projects', 'Highlight your ability to lead design efforts and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams', 'Mention your familiarity with electrical codes and standards, and how you ensure compliance', "Express interest in the company's values of teamwork and community impact"]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Learn about Interstates' history and their focus on employee-owned culture
  • Review their services, especially in power, controls, and automation for industrial clients
  • Look into their safety record and commitment to quality
  • Check if they have any recent news or awards related to power engineering projects

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you had to coordinate with other engineering disciplines on a design project.
2 How do you ensure your designs are constructable and minimize field issues?
3 What experience do you have with power system studies (load flow, short circuit, coordination)?
4 How do you stay updated with changes in electrical codes and standards?
5 Tell us about a challenging project where you had to balance design quality with project deadlines.
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't provide generic answers about electrical engineering without focusing on power specifics
  • Avoid mentioning lack of experience with remote work; instead, show how you manage remote collaboration
  • Don't overlook the importance of 'constructable' design; show you understand real-world implementation

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Interstates!