Risevoic
Lead Underground Transmission Line Engineer 2 - Grid
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Portland, OR, 97201
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 30 December 2025
Description
This position will offer you the ability to apply and expand your knowledge of underground transmission line engineering, including routing, duct bank configurations, manhole placement and electrical principles to:
- Design of complex underground transmission lines for voltages up to 500kV
- Responsible for cost analyses, development of design criteria, siting and routing in complex environments, and placement of manholes for underground transmission lines
- Responsible for physical design including duct bank layouts, development of trenchless designs, cable pulling calculations, development of drawing packages
- Responsible for cable selection studies, determining bonding scheme, performing ampacity calculations
- Develop riser structure configuration and structural loading
- Develop specifications including cable procurement, duct bank installation, trenchless installation, and general construction specifications
- Work and coordinate with vendors and clients to specify transmission line components
- Direct project team of other engineers, designers, and drafters
This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days. Dependent upon your location, this opportunity offers a generous relocation package.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- This position requires a BS degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
- Have current PE License
- Proficiency with CYMCAP modeling
- Proficiency with cable tensioning calculations and software
- 12 or more years of experience of leading a design team in the development of complex underground transmission projects
- Design experience incorporating code requirements, EPRI recommendations, client requirements
- Experience in cost estimate development and schedule creation and coordination
- Experience with XLPE cable design
- Experience with the preparation of specifications for installation and procurement of underground transmission line materials and components
- Knowledge to verify/review right of way requirements, bonding schemes, underground transmission line plan and profile drawings and other construction documents
- Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principals involved in the production of technical plans, drawings, and models
- Experience in writing and providing support documentation for engineering calculations
- Familiarity with design codes and standards such as NESC, EPRI Green Book, IEC, CSA, IEEE, ANSI, IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, and ACI 318
- Proficiency with MS Office applications
- Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
- Attention to detail
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- Experience with High Pressure Gas Filled or High-Pressured Fluid Filled pipe type cable systems and associated equipment
- Experience with underground distribution or low voltage cable systems
Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance- Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
- Life & Accident Insurance
- Disability Coverage
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Back-Up Daycare
- FSA & HSA
- 401(k)
- Pre-Tax Commuter Account
- Merit Scholarship Program
- Employee Discount Program
- Corporate Charitable Giving Program
- Tuition Assistance
- First Professional Licensure Bonus
- Employee Referral Bonus
- Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Paid Bereavement Leave
- Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range
$131,960.00 - $205,330.00Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.
Related Jobs
Pasadena, CA
Top trending job titles hiring now
Popular Searches for Transmission Line Engineer
Frequently asked questions
This specialized position focuses on designing and managing complex underground transmission lines up to 500kV, integrating routing, duct bank layouts, and cable specifications, which distinguishes it from broader electrical engineering roles. Portland's unique infrastructure and regulations also influence design approaches specific to this location.
Engineers often navigate complex terrain and urban constraints when routing underground lines in Portland. Challenges include optimizing duct bank configurations, ensuring trenchless installation viability, and adhering to local code standards while balancing cost and environmental impact.
Seasoned engineers can advance toward project leadership, overseeing multidisciplinary teams and interfacing with clients and vendors. Expertise in regulatory compliance, advanced cable technologies, and project management opens pathways into strategic roles within utility companies or engineering consultancies.
A Professional Engineer (PE) license is crucial for leadership roles, especially in Oregon. Additionally, familiarity with regional standards like the Northwest Electric Code and certifications related to underground power systems enhance credibility and compliance.
Sargent & Lundy offers hybrid work schedules blending office and remote days, competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits. Their award-winning culture emphasizes health, wellness, and continuous learning opportunities, fostering a supportive environment for career advancement.
At Sargent & Lundy, engineers lead complex high-voltage projects with access to cutting-edge modeling tools like Cymcap and collaborate across diverse teams. The company’s dedication to innovation and employee well-being creates a unique blend of technical challenge and workplace flexibility.
With a range between approximately $132,000 and $205,000 annually, this role offers strong compensation aligned with Portland’s living expenses and the specialized skill set required for underground transmission line engineering leadership.
The engineer must specify transmission components, manage procurement specifications, and ensure installation standards meet client and vendor requirements. Effective communication is essential to align design criteria, schedules, and cost estimates within Portland’s regulatory framework.
Emerging trends include enhanced cable tension calculation software, trenchless installation techniques, and advanced bonding schemes. Staying updated on evolving codes like IEEE and EPRI recommendations ensures designs meet modern reliability and safety standards.
Portland’s growing infrastructure needs and focus on grid modernization drive steady demand for experienced underground transmission engineers. Factors like renewable integration and urban development increase competition, making specialized expertise highly sought after.