About the role#
As a Substation Electrical & Distribution Intern, you will work within the Power sector to support the generation, transmission, and delivery of electricity. You will gain experience working alongside engineers and scientists on projects that modernize transmission systems and support energy infrastructure. This is a paid, full-time internship based on a rolling term.
What you'll do#
- Create and modify substation physical drawings, including equipment selection and placement.
- Perform grounding studies to mitigate step and touch potentials within substations.
- Develop and update substation wiring diagrams, control schematics, circuit schematics, equipment detail drawings, and system studies.
- Collaborate with engineers, drafters, and construction teams to execute designs for new services, infrastructure maintenance, and renewable energy projects.
- Apply standard engineering techniques under the supervision of a project manager.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate engineering program, specifically Electrical or Computer Engineering.
- Understanding of basic circuit analysis and fundamental electrical laws.
- Basic Microsoft Office skills and knowledge of software packages relevant to your field of study.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills with high attention to detail.
- Preference is given to candidates who have completed at least two years of their degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA.
Location & details#
- This position is located in Madison, Wisconsin.
- The role is on-site.
- This is a paid position.
About HDR
HDR is an employee-owned design firm that provides engineering, architecture, environmental, and construction services. The company operates globally across sectors including healthcare, transportation, energy, and water resources. Headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, it employs over 17,000 people. It maintains a large network of offices to support its diverse project portfolio.
How to get in at HDR
Applying early to HDR is a distinct advantage because recruiters often review candidates as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you can apply among the first before the pile grows. Reaching the right person at a firm this size can be difficult, but it is often the most effective way to get noticed. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves response rates.


