Designer II - PSSD in Hampton, Georgia at Southern States, LLC

Job Summary

Designer II is primarily responsible for the active development of mechanical and electrical control drawing packages for medium and high voltage electric utility substation equipment. Working closely with cross-functional teams as the key technical advisor and product advocate, the Designer II will ensure designs meet customer specifications, industry standards, and internal manufacturing capabilities while providing high-quality, on-time project deliverables with minimal supervision.
Key Responsibilities

• Consistently apply basic mechanical and electrical drafting and design fundamentals to produce comprehensive mechanical and electrical drawing packages for medium and high voltage substation equipment, including schematics, wiring diagrams (primary and secondary), general arrangement, assembly drawings, bill of materials, and support structures.
• Ensure all designs comply with customer specifications, applicable industry standards (ANSI, IEEE, ASTM, ASCE, AWS, CSA, etc.), and company manufacturing capabilities.
• Coordinate with staff and outsourced engineering to ensure structural sufficiency considering wind loading, seismic requirements, and short-circuit forces.
• Make electrical calculations associated with the equipment such as ampacity and clearances.
• Coordinate closely with electrical application engineers to ensure proper integration of components.
• Support proposal activities by providing accurate design concepts and proposal quality drawings.
• Participate in design reviews and provide technical guidance during fabrication and assembly.
• Troubleshoot and resolve fabrication, assembly, and field installation challenges in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Maintain project schedules and deliverables while upholding the highest standards of quality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Associate’s degree in Applied Science (AAS) in Drafting Technology or Engineering Design or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience: At least 2 years in the design of mechanical and electrical systems.
• Strong proficiency in 3D modeling software (SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word, etc.)
• Experience working with ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.
• Fundamental understanding of electrical control systems, schematics, and interconnection diagrams for substation applications.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and sound technical judgment.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Available to travel <10%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (or Engineering Technology) or a related technical field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Experience: At least 5 years in the design of mechanical and electrical systems.
• Proficiency in additional design tools such as EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical, or similar electrical CAD platforms.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing or engineered-to-order environment.
• Familiarity with galvanizing, welding standards, and steel detailing.
• Hands-on experience in fabrication shops, field installations, or commissioning.

Performance Metrics

• On-Time Drawing Package Release
• Design Quality & Accuracy
• Continuous Improvement Contributions
• Technical Issue Resolution Time