ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Distribution Automation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDistribution Automation Jobs

Distribution Automation information

See salary details

$31K

$116.6K

$169.5K

How much do distribution automation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for distribution automation in the United States is $116,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job for EE?

In the field of electrical engineering, senior roles such as Electrical Engineering Manager, Power Systems Engineer, or Lead Distribution Engineer tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in distribution automation systems or power grid management.

What is distribution automation?

Distribution automation is a field within utility and electrical engineering focused on using technology and control systems to automatically monitor, control, and optimize the distribution of electricity. It involves deploying sensors, remote control devices, and communication networks to improve reliability, reduce outages, and enhance grid efficiency. Professionals in this area often work with SCADA systems, automation equipment, and may require knowledge of power systems and certifications in electrical safety.

What is a Distribution Automation job?

A Distribution Automation (DA) job involves managing and implementing smart grid technologies to optimize the operation of electrical distribution systems. Professionals in this role work with automated controls, communication systems, and analytics to improve grid reliability, efficiency, and fault detection. They collaborate with engineers, utilities, and technology providers to deploy solutions that minimize downtime, enhance energy distribution, and enable real-time monitoring. This role requires expertise in power systems, SCADA, and IoT applications in grid modernization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Distribution Automation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Distribution Automation, you need a strong understanding of power systems, electrical engineering, and automation technologies, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), DNP3/IEC61850 protocols, and relevant certifications such as PE or ISA are highly valued. Effective problem-solving, strong communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively make candidates stand out in this position. These skills and attributes are crucial to successfully implementing, maintaining, and optimizing automated distribution networks in utility operations.

What jobs will AI not replace?

Distribution automation involves managing and maintaining electrical distribution systems, a role that requires complex decision-making, troubleshooting, and understanding of physical infrastructure. AI is unlikely to fully replace these jobs because they depend on hands-on skills, contextual judgment, and safety considerations that current automation cannot replicate. Human expertise remains essential for system design, emergency response, and adapting to unique situations in this field.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a Distribution Automation professional?

As a Distribution Automation professional, your daily responsibilities often include configuring and maintaining automation equipment, monitoring system performance, and troubleshooting faults in distribution networks. You'll collaborate closely with field technicians, engineers, and IT staff to ensure seamless operation of remote sensing and control devices. Frequent tasks may involve analyzing data from SCADA systems, implementing firmware or software updates, and responding to real-time system events to maintain grid reliability. This dynamic role often requires balancing hands-on technical work with strategic planning to optimize power distribution processes.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

In the field of distribution automation, high-paying roles such as senior electrical engineers, project managers, or specialized consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and in-demand technical skills. These positions often require advanced knowledge of power systems, automation technologies, and industry standards, and may involve consulting or contract work with flexible schedules.
More about Distribution Automation jobs
What states have the most Distribution Automation jobs? States with the most job openings for Distribution Automation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Distribution Automation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution Automation jobs are:
Distribution Automation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution Automation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,607 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Electrical Engineer - Distribution Design

Hansoninc

Marion, IL

$147K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Hanson Values

Integrity | Commitment | Quality | Relationships | Innovation

If you're looking for a firm that encourages innovative thinking and challenges you every day, with an opportunity to learn and advance, a career at Hanson is right for you. The belief in sustainability within our company's practices creates a focus on client success and partnerships that are important to our communities and our environment.

Electrical Engineer - Distribution Design


Position: Full-Time

Location: Any (Florida and Illinois preferred)
Licensing: Professional Engineer (PE) Required

About the Role

Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking an experienced Electrical Engineer specializing in Distribution System Design to support electric utility and power delivery projects. This senior-level role is ideal for a Professional Engineer with strong experience in utility distribution systems, including overhead and underground distribution, system upgrades, reliability improvements, and customer-driven projects.

The successful candidate will bring technical depth, leadership capability, and hands-on experience supporting transmission and distribution (T&D) utilities, municipal power providers, or utility engineering consultants.

Key Responsibilities

Distribution Engineering & Design

  • Lead the design of overhead and underground electrical distribution systems, typically ranging from 4 kV to 35 kV.

  • Develop design packages for:

  • New distribution lines and system expansions

  • System hardening and resiliency upgrades

  • Reconductoring and voltage conversion projects

  • Service extensions and customer interconnections

  • Prepare construction drawings, material lists, staking sheets, and technical specifications.

  • Perform system calculations including:

  • Voltage drop

  • Short-circuit analysis

  • Load analysis and feeder balancing

Utility Coordination & System Integration

  • Apply utility standards, specifications, and design criteria to distribution projects.

  • Coordinate designs with transmission, substation, protection, and civil teams.

  • Support integration of:

  • Distribution automation

  • Voltage regulation equipment

  • Protective devices (reclosers, sectionalizers, fuses)

  • Ensure compatibility with existing utility systems and operational practices.

Project Leadership & Technical Oversight

  • Serve as lead engineer or subject matter expert for distribution design efforts.

  • Provide technical guidance and QA/QC reviews for drawings, calculations, and design deliverables.

  • Support project managers with:

  • Scope development

  • Cost estimates

  • Schedule planning

  • Risk identification

  • Mentor junior engineers and designers.

Industry Tools & Standards

  • Design in accordance with applicable standards and codes, including:

  • NESC

  • IEEE

  • ANSI

  • NEC (as applicable)

  • Utility-specific distribution standards

  • Utilize commonly used software and tools:

  • CYME, Synergi, or WindMil (preferred)

  • SKM, ETAP, or EasyPower

  • AutoCAD or MicroStation

  • Maintain working knowledge of distribution construction practices and materials.

Client & Field Support

  • Work directly with electric utilities, municipalities, and power providers.

  • Support construction through:

  • Review of contractor submittals

  • Responses to RFIs

  • Site visits and field observations

  • Provide engineering support to resolve constructability or operational issues.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or related discipline.

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license (required).

  • Minimum 8 years of experience in electric distribution engineering.

  • Prior experience working with:

  • Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs)

  • Public utilities or cooperatives

  • Utility engineering consulting firms

  • Strong understanding of distribution system operations and utility standards.

  • Proven ability to lead engineering tasks and collaborate across disciplines.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with storm hardening, grid modernization, or resiliency programs.

  • Familiarity with distribution automation and smart grid technologies.

  • Experience coordinating with joint-use utilities and right-of-way stakeholders.

  • Experience supporting proposals, cost estimating, and schedule development.

  • Experience mentoring junior engineers or serving as a technical lead.

Soft Skills & Competencies

  • Strong technical judgment and attention to detail

  • Ability to work independently and lead complex tasks

  • Client-focused and solutions-oriented mindset

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills

  • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Working at Hanson

  • Employee-owned firm offering long-term career growth and stability

  • Collaborative environment across disciplines and offices

  • Willingness to support occasional field work and travel

  • Valid driver's license required

Salary Range: ($147,000-$175,000)

Benefits

Our focus on people means we offer a generous benefits program to help you create a solid foundation for health and security throughout your career, including:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Performance bonuses
  • 401(k) with matching contribution
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • Comprehensive health & well-being plans
  • Financial wellness plans
  • Work-life balance programs

Want to know more? Visitour benefits pagefor all the details.

Culture

We understand that selecting a job is about more than the day-to-day tasks. It's important to feel like you belong and safe to grow and progress along your career path. You'll find that at Hanson. We have an inclusive, diverse workforce awaiting to connect with you and numerous opportunities to cultivate your career, including:

  • Monthly educational webinars
  • Leadership training
  • Lunch & learn development sessions
  • 24/7 access to thousands of skill-building courses
  • Mentorship opportunities
  • Award-winning internship program
  • Employee recognition
  • And so much more!

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EEO - EMPLOYER

We do not accept unsolicited resumesfrom recruiters or agencies/staffing firms.Resumesare only accepted from recruiters and agency/staffing firms if a signed agreement is in place at the inception of the recruiting effort and authorized for a specified position.

Apply