STEM OPT Substation Engineer Jobs
Substation Engineer roles in power transmission and distribution qualify for STEM OPT work authorization, giving you up to 36 months to gain hands-on experience in a field where electrical and systems engineering degrees align directly with the work. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and you'll need a STEM-designated degree to unlock the 24-month extension.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Posting End Date
07-01-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing entry level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
Job Description
What You'll Do:
-
Technical Expertise: Possesses entry-level knowledge and experience in the application of theory to solve well-defined problems or provide analysis, with guidance from higher-level engineers. Assists higher-level engineers in handling well-defined portions of more complex problems and analyses. Exhibits fundamental understanding of standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with pertinent equipment, materials, systems and business processes.
-
Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others as required to resolve routine engineering tasks. Demonstrates working knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures; however, activities are generally monitored by higher-level employees to ensure work is performed in accordance with established guidelines. Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher-level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in both supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary. Demonstrates willingness and capabilities to assume leadership roles.
-
Planning & Organization Ability: Provides input to routine project planning documents related to scheduling and understands the use of scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Monitors project status and recommends action accordingly. Prepares cost estimates using established standards. Develops understanding of the workflow for routine engineering projects. Accomplishes work according to plans and schedules established by higher-level employees.
-
Problem Solving & Initiative: Actively seeks out information and understanding of engineering problems and solution techniques applicable to area of responsibility. Applies basic techniques to perform analysis associated with the resolution of routine technical problems. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities and presenting new ideas and new approaches.
-
Communication: Assists and participates in the preparation of reports and technical papers. Assimilates information and instructions readily. Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing and presents ideas clearly. Listens to and understands instructions, and requests clarification as required.
-
Interpersonal Skills: Begins networking with peers to share information and encourage cooperation. Understands the agendas and perspectives of others. Develops effective give-and-take relationship. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
-
Decision Making: Knows which decisions they are authorized to make. Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees and makes routine decisions subject to review and contributes to team decision-making.
-
Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon their organizational unit's work. Applies economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Pursues effective ways to protect and enhance the environment while providing reliable electricity at a competitive cost. Active participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the department.
Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the Substation Engineer level, with increased educational, skill, experience and certification requirements for higher level Substation Engineers.
What We're Looking For:
Education:
- This is an entry level position for new graduates with a bachelor’s degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET; Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.
- Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non-ABET accredited program.
Experience:
- Qualified experience includes utility specific operations knowledge / experience with good working knowledge of work processes and procedures.
License/Certifications:
- Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.
Other Requirements:
- Demonstrate ability to manage time effectively and efficiently and demonstrate organizational and planning skills, as well as an aptitude for accuracy, attention to detail and ability to achieve goals.
- Demonstrates a basic level of technical knowledge related to writing and verbal communication.
- Proficient in use of computer and Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
- Team player with ability to work and collaborate well with others.
- Some travel, including overnight, may be required.
- Safely and effectively perform light physical duties at various work sites including home and AEP locations in varying conditions.
- Understand and support the policies, values, principles, structure and behavior of AEP.
- Exposure to corporate accounting and project cost management systems, construction environments, earned value management, and scheduling systems is preferred but not required.
- Availability to work overtime, call-out overtime and shift work may be required depending on business unit.
- Demonstrate an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon our work.
Where You’ll Work:
- This role sits on-site at the Ardmore Transmission Service Center in Ft. Wayne, IN.
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$74K- $138K / Year
#LI-Onsite
#AEPCareers
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-006
Compensation Range:
$74,551.00 - $128,688.00
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
Job Posting End Date
07-01-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing entry level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
Job Description
What You'll Do:
-
Technical Expertise: Possesses entry-level knowledge and experience in the application of theory to solve well-defined problems or provide analysis, with guidance from higher-level engineers. Assists higher-level engineers in handling well-defined portions of more complex problems and analyses. Exhibits fundamental understanding of standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with pertinent equipment, materials, systems and business processes.
-
Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others as required to resolve routine engineering tasks. Demonstrates working knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures; however, activities are generally monitored by higher-level employees to ensure work is performed in accordance with established guidelines. Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher-level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in both supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary. Demonstrates willingness and capabilities to assume leadership roles.
-
Planning & Organization Ability: Provides input to routine project planning documents related to scheduling and understands the use of scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Monitors project status and recommends action accordingly. Prepares cost estimates using established standards. Develops understanding of the workflow for routine engineering projects. Accomplishes work according to plans and schedules established by higher-level employees.
-
Problem Solving & Initiative: Actively seeks out information and understanding of engineering problems and solution techniques applicable to area of responsibility. Applies basic techniques to perform analysis associated with the resolution of routine technical problems. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities and presenting new ideas and new approaches.
-
Communication: Assists and participates in the preparation of reports and technical papers. Assimilates information and instructions readily. Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing and presents ideas clearly. Listens to and understands instructions, and requests clarification as required.
-
Interpersonal Skills: Begins networking with peers to share information and encourage cooperation. Understands the agendas and perspectives of others. Develops effective give-and-take relationship. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
-
Decision Making: Knows which decisions they are authorized to make. Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees and makes routine decisions subject to review and contributes to team decision-making.
-
Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon their organizational unit's work. Applies economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Pursues effective ways to protect and enhance the environment while providing reliable electricity at a competitive cost. Active participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the department.
Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the Substation Engineer level, with increased educational, skill, experience and certification requirements for higher level Substation Engineers.
What We're Looking For:
Education:
- This is an entry level position for new graduates with a bachelor’s degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET; Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.
- Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non-ABET accredited program.
Experience:
- Qualified experience includes utility specific operations knowledge / experience with good working knowledge of work processes and procedures.
License/Certifications:
- Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.
Other Requirements:
- Demonstrate ability to manage time effectively and efficiently and demonstrate organizational and planning skills, as well as an aptitude for accuracy, attention to detail and ability to achieve goals.
- Demonstrates a basic level of technical knowledge related to writing and verbal communication.
- Proficient in use of computer and Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
- Team player with ability to work and collaborate well with others.
- Some travel, including overnight, may be required.
- Safely and effectively perform light physical duties at various work sites including home and AEP locations in varying conditions.
- Understand and support the policies, values, principles, structure and behavior of AEP.
- Exposure to corporate accounting and project cost management systems, construction environments, earned value management, and scheduling systems is preferred but not required.
- Availability to work overtime, call-out overtime and shift work may be required depending on business unit.
- Demonstrate an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon our work.
Where You’ll Work:
- This role sits on-site at the Ardmore Transmission Service Center in Ft. Wayne, IN.
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$74K- $138K / Year
#LI-Onsite
#AEPCareers
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-006
Compensation Range:
$74,551.00 - $128,688.00
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
See all 110+ STEM OPT Substation Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT Substation Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Substation Engineer
Verify your degree's CIP code eligibility
Electrical Engineering (14.1001) and Systems Engineering (14.2701) are among the CIP codes that qualify for the STEM OPT extension. Confirm your degree's exact CIP code with your DSO before targeting employers, since a misclassified program can disqualify your extension filing.
Search LCA filings for substation engineering roles
Use the OFLC Wage Search to filter Labor Condition Application filings by SOC code 17-2071 (Electrical Engineers). Employers who have filed LCAs for that occupation have already navigated DOL prevailing-wage requirements, signaling real experience hiring engineers on work authorization.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting any offer
Your employer must be actively enrolled in E-Verify to sponsor your STEM OPT extension. Verify their enrollment status directly through the E-Verify employer search tool before signing an offer letter, not after, since switching employers resets your 60-day grace period.
Build your I-983 training plan around project deliverables
Substation engineers work on protection relay testing, load-flow studies, and grid interconnection projects. Map these specific deliverables to STEM-learning objectives in your I-983 so your DSO and employer have concrete, role-specific documentation rather than a generic training narrative.
Target utilities and EPC firms with active E-Verify history
Use Migrate Mate to filter Substation Engineer listings by employers already enrolled in E-Verify. Engineering, Procurement, and Construction firms and investor-owned utilities account for the bulk of substation staffing and are more likely to have structured OPT onboarding processes.
File your extension request 90 days before OPT expires
USCIS requires your STEM OPT extension application to be submitted no earlier than 90 days before your initial OPT ends. Missing this window means losing continuous work authorization, so coordinate your I-765 filing timeline with your DSO as soon as you accept an offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Substation Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, if your degree falls under a STEM-designated CIP code such as Electrical Engineering (14.1001) or Power Systems Engineering. The role itself must also align with your degree field. USCIS evaluates both your credential and whether the job involves applying that STEM knowledge directly. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before applying.
What E-Verify requirement applies to my STEM OPT employer?
Every employer who hires you on a STEM OPT extension must be enrolled in E-Verify and remain enrolled for the full duration of your authorization. You can check enrollment status through the E-Verify employer search before accepting an offer. An employer who is not enrolled cannot legally employ you on the 24-month extension, regardless of offer terms.
What should my I-983 training plan include for a Substation Engineer position?
Your I-983 must document specific learning objectives tied to the actual work, such as protection system design, SCADA integration, relay coordination studies, or substation commissioning. Generic language like 'engineering tasks' will not satisfy USCIS review. Work with your supervisor to map project milestones to measurable STEM outcomes before your DSO submits the plan.
How does cap-gap protection apply if I'm a Substation Engineer on STEM OPT?
If your employer files an H-1B visa petition on your behalf before your STEM OPT expires and you're selected in the lottery, cap-gap automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of that fiscal year. You can continue working as a Substation Engineer during this period without interruption, as long as the petition remains pending or approved.
Where can I find Substation Engineer jobs from E-Verify-enrolled employers?
Migrate Mate lists Substation Engineer roles from employers already enrolled in E-Verify, so you're not manually cross-checking every posting. The platform surfaces relevant openings in utilities, transmission companies, and EPC firms that have active STEM OPT hiring experience, saving you the step of verifying eligibility separately for each employer.