Application Guide

How to Apply for Substation Engineer - Physical (Remote - U.S.)

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm that designs and builds projects that make the world a better place. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, AECOM offers employees the opportunity to work on high-impact projects while enjoying flexibility and comprehensive benefits.

About This Role

As a Substation Engineer - Physical at AECOM, you will be responsible for the physical design of utility-scale substations, including layout, equipment specification, and grounding. Your work will ensure reliable power delivery and support the transition to a more sustainable energy grid.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing project specifications, creating or modifying physical designs using CAD software, and coordinating with other engineers and project managers. You'll also spend time on calculations, ensuring designs meet safety and regulatory standards, and participating in virtual meetings with the team.

🚀 Application Tools

Generate Cover Letter

AI-powered, tailored for AECOM

Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, with a focus on power systems.
  • Experience in physical substation design for utility-scale projects, including knowledge of IEEE, NEC, and other relevant standards.
  • Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific substation design projects, emphasizing your role and the scale of the projects.

2

Include any relevant certifications (e.g., PE license) and mention your familiarity with AECOM's project types in your cover letter.

3

Since the role is remote, demonstrate your ability to work independently and communicate effectively in a distributed team.

4

Research AECOM's recent substation projects and mention how your experience aligns with their focus on sustainability.

5

Ensure your application clearly shows your experience with physical design aspects (e.g., bus layout, equipment clearances, grounding) rather than just electrical studies.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Highlight your specific experience in physical substation design, including any projects that involved voltage levels, equipment selection, and layout.', 'Emphasize your ability to work on detailed engineering tasks with moderate supervision, as mentioned in the job description.', 'Mention your familiarity with industry standards and codes, and how you ensure designs are safe, reliable, and cost-effective.', "Express enthusiasm for AECOM's mission of sustainable infrastructure and the opportunity to contribute to a remote team."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Look into AECOM's recent substation projects and their involvement in renewable energy integration or grid modernization.
  • → Understand AECOM's commitment to sustainability and how their engineering practices align with that commitment.
  • → Review AECOM's company culture and employee benefits to see if they align with your values and career goals.
  • → Check if AECOM has any industry recognitions or awards for their power delivery projects.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a recent substation design project: what was your role, what challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
2 How do you ensure compliance with IEEE and other standards in your physical designs?
3 How do you manage your time and priorities when working on multiple tasks with tight deadlines?
4 What software tools are you proficient in for physical design, and how do you stay updated with new tools?
5 How do you handle communication and collaboration in a remote work environment, especially when working with cross-functional teams?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not highlighting specific physical design experience, such as equipment layout or grounding, and instead focusing on unrelated electrical work.
  • Failing to tailor your application to the remote nature of the role, such as not addressing how you work independently.
  • Overlooking the need to mention your ability to work with moderate supervision, as the job description emphasizes this.

📅 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 AECOM!

← Back to Job Listing Apply Now →