Substation structural engineer – entry level (hybrid)

The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a substation structural engineer to join our team. In this role, you will support the power delivery group by contributing to the design and engineering of high-voltage substation structures and foundations for electric utilities, renewable energy, and data center clients. You’ll work on multidisciplinary project teams to perform structural analysis, develop plans and specifications, write reports, and support construction observation.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, technically skilled, and thrives in a collaborative environment. You bring strong communication and problem-solving abilities, a flexible working style, and a commitment to delivering high-quality engineering solutions that align with Barr’s values.

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Technical knowledge: assist with engineering calculations and modeling for a variety of substation structures and foundations.
• Project Support: prepare engineering drawings, technical specifications, and design documentation.
• Team collaboration: work closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and project managers while developing your skillset in a professional consulting environment.
• Software: use word processing, spreadsheet, and structural engineering software (RISA, AutoCAD, Revit, MathCAD) to support project tasks and team collaboration.
• Fieldwork: participate in engineering site visits and construction observation activities to verify compliance with design intent.

About the opportunity

Hybrid: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of one of the following Barr offices: Ann Arbor, Michigan; Duluth, Minnesota; Fort Collins, Colorado; Minneapolis, Minnesota; or Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

Travel expectation: up to 10% of domestic fieldwork.

Work environment: ability to work in locations that may feature rough terrain typical of construction/rural outdoor sites with limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical requirements for the role may include:

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in varying outdoor conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, uneven terrain).
• Must be able to lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Capable of standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by site conditions.

About you – required core competencies

Education: bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a structural emphasis (including structural analysis and steel and concrete design).

Experience: 0–4 years of relevant experience.

Licenses/Certifications: Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certified, or ability to obtain within one year.

Software: familiarity with Excel and Word. Preferred experience with AutoCAD, Revit, STAAD Pro, RISA 3D, or MathCAD, but not required.

Driver’s license: possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Compensation

Anticipated range of $72,000–$90,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock
• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders
• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities
• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave
• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.