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Distribution Designer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Senior ICT Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $112K/yr

RCDD (Registered Communication Distribution Designer) helpful * An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must What We Believe HDR is our company.

HDR

Senior ICT Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $112K/yr

RCDD (Registered Communication Distribution Designer) helpful * An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must What We Believe HDR is our company.

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Distribution Designer information

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$14

$22

$42

How much do distribution designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution designer in Illinois is $22.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Distribution Designers face when coordinating with field crews and project managers?

Distribution Designers often coordinate closely with field crews and project managers to ensure that electrical distribution plans are practical and meet project requirements. A common challenge is translating technical designs into actionable steps that field crews can execute, especially when unexpected site conditions arise. Communication is key, as designers must clearly convey design intent and quickly adapt plans based on feedback from the field. Successful Distribution Designers are proactive in addressing issues and adept at collaborating with multiple stakeholders to keep projects on track.

What are Distribution Designers?

Distribution Designers are professionals who plan and design electrical power distribution systems. They create layouts for power lines, transformers, and other equipment to ensure reliable electricity delivery to homes, businesses, and other facilities. Their work involves analyzing site conditions, following safety regulations, and coordinating with engineers, utility companies, and construction teams. Distribution Designers play a crucial role in modern infrastructure by making sure electrical systems are efficient, safe, and meet regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Distribution Designer vs Distribution Engineer?

AspectDistribution DesignerDistribution Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in civil, electrical, or environmental engineering; relevant certificationsSimilar credentials, often with additional engineering licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, field surveys, project planning sitesDesign offices, field inspections, project implementation sites
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, engineering firms, government agenciesUtility companies, engineering firms, infrastructure projects
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding design roles in power distributionUnderstanding engineering responsibilities in distribution projects

Distribution Designers focus on creating and planning electrical distribution layouts, ensuring efficient and compliant designs. Distribution Engineers often oversee the implementation, analysis, and optimization of these systems, with a broader engineering scope. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their focus differs from planning to engineering execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Distribution Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distribution Designer, you need a solid understanding of electrical distribution systems, technical drawing skills, and typically an associate's or bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software, GIS mapping tools, and familiarity with relevant industry standards such as the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with clients, engineers, and field crews. These competencies ensure the accurate and safe design of electrical distribution networks, supporting reliable power delivery and project efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Distribution Designer jobs in Illinois? For Distribution Designer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution Designer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution Designer jobs in Illinois are:
Distribution Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Distribution Designer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,792 per year, or $23 per hour.
Distribution Designer 1 - Grid

Distribution Designer 1 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL

$58K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 442 rated engineering

Job description

This position will offer you the opportunity to work in a project team environment and lead other engineers and designers using your knowledge of engineering and design practices to:

  • Prepare/Review construction sketches and work packages for:
    • Overhead and underground distribution facilities (4 KV through 38 KV)
    • Pole loading analyses
    • Voltage drop and flicker calculations
    • Cable pulling
    • Bill of material
    • Cost estimates
    • Joint use coordination
    • Traffic control plans and/or permit drawings
  • Support preliminary project scoping.
  • Perform field work, when necessary.
  • Support maintenance and recapitalization of distribution components.
  • Plan modifications to the system as well as designing and overseeing complex tasks.
  • Provide construction support, when necessary.
  • Conduct client communication and interaction, when necessary.

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • This position requires an Associate’s Degree in Drafting, and/or a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Technology, and/or a high school diploma.
  • 3 or more years drafting course work or equivalent technical experience.
  • A minimum of 5 years of distribution design experience.
  • Proficient with AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
  • Ability to visualize systems without the aid of the computer. 
  • An Associate’s Degree in Computer Aided Design.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology, including the ability to relate various equipment to a technical design.
  • Knowledgeable in applicable codes, standards, and distribution software programs.
  • Familiarity with design codes and standards such as NESC, NEC, ANSI, IEEE, GIS/GWD.
  • Experience with complex overhead and underground distribution projects (120/208V through 34 kV).
  • Strong communication skills.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • Familiarity with various distribution design/analysis software.
  • Familiarity with GIS software.
  • Experience in utility distribution inspections and/or construction.

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

$58,925 - $84,728
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.

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.

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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