Substation Physical Designer/Engineer

Job Description

Substation Physical Designer/Engineer – WSP Canada

Join WSP in Canada as our Substation Physical Designer/Engineer. Our Power subsector, a key component of WSP’s ERI (Energy, Resources and Industry) sector, supports clients from coast to coast. We have a comprehensive range of services including technical study preparation, project management, detailed design and site services. Our team of experts collaborates to deliver high‑quality solutions that exceed industry standards through innovation.

Job Description

The Substation Physical Designer/Engineer serves as the lead designer on medium and high‑voltage utility and renewable energy interconnection projects. The role involves applying codes and standards, independently producing physical arrangements, plans, elevations, grounding analysis, layouts, cable trough and conduit plans, equipment specifications, bill of materials, and construction documents. You will work with internal and external stakeholders to meet project milestones and ensure quality delivery. The position is based in Ontario with flexibility to work from locations including Thornhill, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Toronto, Kitchener, or Ottawa.

Why WSP?

• We value and commit to an inclusive culture.


• Flexible work policy supports work‑life balance.


• We are proud to represent Canada’s strengths across the globe.


• We continuously improve the world‑—environment, infrastructure, and innovation.


• Exceptional career growth opportunities.


• A collaborative culture built on genuine, impactful work.

Responsibilities

• Take technical accountability for all aspects of design for medium and high voltage (5 kV – 735 kV) substation projects, including development of general arrangements, plan and elevation views, grounding plans, cable trough/conduit plans, equipment specifications, calculations, bill of materials, and construction sequencing.


• Perform grounding, lightning, and bus fault stress analysis.


• Provide technical, procurement, construction, and active coordination support.


• Work with the Physical Design Lead to develop the above drawings.


• Coordinate with external and internal team members, ensuring proper coordination with disciplines such as transmission line engineers, civil engineers, geotechnical engineers, and surveyors.


• Participate in client technical review meetings.


• Assist in preparation of feasibility studies, estimates, and proposal development.


• Conduct site visits as required and provide overall project support.


• Adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies.


• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Qualifications

• University bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited program.


• 3–6 years of relevant post‐education experience in high‑voltage substation design (physical) within a consulting environment.


• Working toward registration to obtain a P.Eng or PEO.


• Experience with all voltages up to 735 kV.


• Proficient in AutoCAD or Bentley MicroStation.


• Proficient in CDEGS, Win-IGS, or similar programs for lightning and grounding studies.


• Ability to assess mechanical forces and thermal effects of high fault currents on rigid bus.


• Experience writing scope documents, performing QA/QC, and managing direct reports.


• Proposal writing and project estimating experience.


• Knowledge of scheduling and project controls processes.


• Strong familiarity with NEC and National Electrical Safety Code.


• Good knowledge of industry and technology trends specific to substations.


• Occasional travel may be required.

About WSP

WSP is one of the world’s leading professional services firms. With over 65,000 team members worldwide and 12,000+ in Canada, we deliver solutions across environmental remediation, urban planning, iconic buildings, sustainable transportation, and renewable power. Our purpose is to future‑proof cities and environments.

Health & Safety

Health and Safety is a core value of WSP. You are expected to comply with our HSE policy and any client HSE policies at client locations. Offers for safety‐sensitive positions involve fieldwork and require the ability to perform key physical tasks in a variety of environmental conditions.

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

WSP welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request throughout the selection process. WSP is committed to the principles of employment equity. Only selected candidates will be notified. WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. For more information please read the full policy.