Director - Substation Engineering

Director - Utility SubstationsAbout the PositionAs the Director of Utility Substations, you will provide strategic leadership and technical oversight for teams delivering substation Physical, and Protection & Control (P&C) engineering services to utility clients. This role is responsible for driving consistent, high-quality execution across the portfolio while aligning team performance with organizational objectives and client expectations.The Director leads a functional group of engineering teams within the substation discipline, with accountability for establishing and maintaining departmental standards, best practices, and quality assurance processes. This role focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, improving workflows, and strengthening technical capabilities through structured processes and training.In addition, the Director is responsible for guiding the group to meet business objectives, including revenue targets, resource utilization, and strategic growth initiatives. Key responsibilities include workforce planning and resource alignment across projects, mentoring and developing Team Leads and engineers, and fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance environment focused on client success.The Director also plays a critical role in shaping the group's technical direction, advancing industry engagement, and ensuring the team is well-positioned to deliver reliable, compliant, and constructible substation solutions.Salary Range: $150,000 - 200,000 / yearThe salary range above is based upon the Denver, Colorado labor market.This opportunity is available to both local / in-office (Lakewood, Colorado) and full-time remote candidates.Essential ResponsibilitiesStrategic Planning and ForecastingCollaborates with VP to develop and implement a multi-year group plan to achieve department and company goals for growth, efficiency, and profitabilityCollaborates with VP, Business Development and Sales to identify potential clients that could benefit from NEI's expertiseStrengthens existing client relationships and encourages repeat business by ensuring exceptional project delivery and proactive communication. Encourages and monitors client feedback to address concerns and continuously improve service quality. Assists with client contacts and communicationIndustry InvolvementEnsuring the team has representation on the right IEEE or other industry committees and sub boardsProducing a plan for the department to produce at least 1 white paper or conference presentation a year.Leadership and CollaborationBuilds and maintains a high-performing substation group, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvementCollaborates with other departments and leaders to ensure alignment of goals, objectives, and expectations across the organizationPerforms other duties as assignedResource Allocation and ManagementDevelops appropriate team structure and mix of staffLeads hiring efforts for lead engineers and team leadersAssists in interviewing and onboarding new team members across substation design teamsForecasts future staffing needsMonitors and manages group workload and team utilization, forecasting workloads based around project sizes and scopeManagement of Execution and PerformanceManages quality and deliverables across multiple teams ensuring client satisfaction and timely completion of project deliverablesReviews the work of teams for general quality and ensures accuracy as requiredMonitors group progress and performance, identifies and addresses obstacles and adjusts as needed to ensure successful project completionReviews and manages documentation around financial statements, including, but not limited to, revenue, write-offs, COGS, overhead expenses, and net incomeServes as a mentor to Team Leads and Engineers across teamsParticipates and engages with the Business Development team to provide technical guidance, pricing details, and scope to ensure cross-functional alignmentFacilitates a seller-doer model to maintain existing client relationships and build new ones.Prepares a variety of documents and reports associated with projects including cost estimates, budget reports, and studiesMaintains professional understanding of all applicable Codes and Standards, and construction practicesProcess Development and ImprovementDevelops, outlines, updates, and implements Standard Best Practices (SBPs) and enforces them to ensure high-level execution from various team membersCoordinates the creation and implementation of new tools, processes, workflows, and training programs that enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and quality across the group.Must HaveQualifications & ExperienceEducation: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology (BSEE or BSEET) from an accredited institution; power systems focus preferredExperience: 10+ years of progressive experience in substation engineering, including Protection & Control (P&C) or Substation Physical, with at least 4 years in a leadership or team management roleLicensure: Professional Engineer (PE) license preferredTechnical ExpertiseStrong knowledge of electrical power systems, substation design, and Protection & Control (P&C) engineering, including protective relaying principles and Substation Physical principlesExperience delivering comprehensive substation design packagesProficiency with industry-standard regulations, compliance requirements and strong background creating cohesive processesWorking knowledge of applicable codes, standards, and utility practices related to substation design and operationLeadership & Professional SkillsDemonstrated ability to lead teams and manage complex projects and initiatives, driving high-quality outcomesProven track record of improving processes, enhancing efficiency, and supporting continuous improvement initiativesStrong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage competing demandsExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage stakeholders at all levelsHigh level of professional judgment, accountability, and decision-making capabilityProven ability to build relationships, foster collaboration, and contribute to a positive, inclusive team cultureAdditional RequirementsProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word)Self-motivated with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environmentAuthorized to work in the United States on a full-time basisWorking ConditionsWork Environment: Work is performed in an office setting, and some field work may be required.Travel: Minimal: 5 - 15%Physical Activities: Must be able to lift 25 lbs.Managerial Responsibility: Director is responsible for reviewing project related financial statements, team utilization and forecasting, and project oversight when necessary. The Director will also be responsible for management and oversight of Team Leads and Engineers assigned to their discipline.About NEI Electric Power EngineeringServing Others. Enriching Environment. Improving Continually. Quality Results. Voted as a top workplace by the Denver Post for six straight years (2020-2026), our values have been woven into the fabric of who we are since 1982, guiding our decision making throughout the years. As an engineering services firm, NEI's mission is to create a great organization that serves people and solves problems.Since NEI's founding, we have developed a culture of collaboration and accountability across our teams and departments, and externally with our clients across the United States. We believe in two core ideas: hiring great people and celebrating our team members with diverse backgrounds and unique experiences; bringing in new, unique, and exciting perspectives that can only strengthen NEI as we chart out paths into the future.We are a proud equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or genetic information.Team Member BenefitsWe believe that taking care of our team members is of the utmost importance. We strive to foster a community of belonging, professional development, and industry involvement; providing our team with the benefits, tools, and support systems to excel in their roles. Out comprehensive benefits package includes:100% Employer paid team member premiums for Medical, Dental, Vision, Basic Life Insurance, and Long-Term DisabilityVoluntary Life InsurancePaid time off401(k) with employer matching; 100% immediate vestingPaid parental leaveTuition reimbursementAnnual & discretionary bonus programEmployer paid licensure (FE/PE), certifications, seminars, & conferencesEight (8) paid holidays including a floating holiday to use at your discretionAnnual Team BuildingHybrid work environment with remote flexibilityCareer development, training, and coaching opportunitiesPet insurance