Data Center Substation Engineering Manager

Filled
February 23, 2026

Job Description

Company: HDR, Inc.
Locations: Walnut Creek (CA) and multiple U.S. locations (Phoenix, Houston, Charlotte, Calgary, etc.)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Power Delivery / Data Center Infrastructure

Role Overview

HDR, Inc. is seeking a Data Center Substation Engineering Manager (EM) to join its nationally ranked Power Delivery team. This leadership role focuses on managing the technical execution of high-voltage substation projects that support data center developments.

The Engineering Manager partners closely with the Project Manager (PM):

  • PM: Scope, schedule, budget, and client management
  • EM: Technical leadership, engineering delivery, and team direction

This position is ideal for professionals with strong experience in substation design, high-voltage infrastructure, and engineering leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership & Project Execution

  • Lead engineering teams delivering high-voltage substation and switchyard projects.
  • Develop and implement technical project execution plans.
  • Assign tasks and provide technical guidance to engineers, designers, and EITs.
  • Oversee technical scope, risk management, and schedule performance.
  • Perform and coordinate quality reviews according to company standards.

Team Management & Collaboration

  • Mentor junior engineers and technical staff.
  • Lead multiple projects across geographically distributed teams.
  • Collaborate with senior technical leaders to expand expertise.
  • Participate in project reviews, technical papers, and industry presentations.

Client & Business Support

  • Support proposal development and work breakdown structures.
  • Assist in change management and project planning.
  • Ensure delivery of high-quality engineering solutions to clients.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE / P.Eng) license.
  • Experience in project execution within the Power Market Sector.
  • Proficiency with engineering tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, Plant 3D, PLS-CADD, or similar.
  • Strong communication and leadership skills.
  • Commitment to collaborative and employee-owned culture.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Engineering.
  • 8+ years experience in high-voltage substation design (12kV–500kV or higher).
  • Knowledge of IEEE, ANSI, NESC standards.
  • Consulting engineering experience.
  • Proven experience working with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Experience up to 765kV systems (bonus).

Compensation & Benefits

  • California salary range: $107,712 – $204,250 annually (location-dependent).
  • Comprehensive benefits package including:
    • Medical, dental, vision insurance
    • Retirement plan with employer match
    • Paid time off and parental leave
    • Tuition reimbursement
    • Employee ownership opportunities

About the Company

HDR, Inc. is a global employee-owned engineering, architecture, and consulting firm known for infrastructure, power delivery, transportation, and environmental projects. The company emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and inclusive workplace culture.