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Distribution Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Cary, NC · On-site

$68K - $104K/yr

... other engineers and designers using your knowledge of engineering and design practices to ... Overhead and underground distribution facilities (4 KV through 38 KV) * Pole loading analyses

The Distribution Engineering Designer II (DED II) position is the second level of the DED career track where progression is based on time in grade and performance. This role is tasked with developing ...

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Distribution Engineer information

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How much do distribution engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution engineer in Raleigh, NC is $42.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.89 and $50.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Distribution Engineer?

A distribution engineer is a type of electrical engineer responsible for the development, installation, testing, and proper usage of electrical power equipment. As a distribution engineer, your job duties include building power distribution systems, performing safety inspections of electrical equipment, and monitoring and documenting the performance of electrical systems. The qualifications to begin a career as a distribution engineer include a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering plus several years of experience working with a variety of electrical power systems and equipment. To succeed in this job, you need to have a mechanical aptitude and strong critical thinking skills.

What are Distribution Engineers?

Distribution Engineers are professionals who design, plan, and oversee the electrical distribution systems that deliver power from substations to homes, businesses, and other end users. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of power lines, transformers, and other infrastructure components. Their work includes system analysis, equipment selection, reliability improvement, and compliance with safety standards. Distribution Engineers often collaborate with utility companies, construction teams, and regulatory agencies to maintain and upgrade electrical grids.

How does a Distribution Engineer typically collaborate with field crews and other departments to ensure reliable power delivery?

Distribution Engineers work closely with field crews, operations, and planning teams to design, upgrade, and maintain electrical distribution systems. They often provide technical support during outages or equipment failures, review field reports, and coordinate with other departments to schedule maintenance that minimizes customer impact. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as the engineer needs to translate technical plans into actionable steps for field personnel and ensure that projects meet safety and reliability standards.

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

To thrive as a Distribution Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering principles, power distribution systems, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software tools such as AutoCAD, GIS, and distribution modeling systems, along with relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, is often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential for collaborating with teams and addressing client needs. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable delivery of electrical power to customers while meeting regulatory and operational standards.

What is the difference between Distribution Engineer vs Substation Engineer?

AspectDistribution EngineerSubstation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, utility companies, power distribution networksSubstations, power plants, electrical infrastructure sites
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, energy providers, infrastructure firmsUtility companies, electrical infrastructure firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Distribution Engineers focus on designing, maintaining, and improving power distribution systems from substations to consumers. Substation Engineers specialize in the design, operation, and maintenance of electrical substations. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within the same industry, but their focus areas differ within the electrical power infrastructure.

More about Distribution Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Distribution Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Distribution Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Distribution Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Distribution Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Distribution Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,018 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Distribution Engineering Designer IV

Distribution Engineering Designer IV

KCI Technologies Inc.

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


KCI Technologies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

187th of 369 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

Join us as we Rise to the Challenge

At KCI, we're building an enduring community that provides unparalleled value to our employee-owners. We make our mark designing and delivering our world-class solutions, so we invest deeply in supporting and developing our team. We reward integrity and commitment, and when we do well, you do well. Our employee's have the freedom to innovate, unlimited growth, a voice that matters, a lifestyle that works, and skin in the game. Achievements are shared and celebrated. As a team, we are motivated to better ourselves, each other, and the world around us. 

 

THE COMPANY

KCI Technologies, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned engineering, consulting and construction firm serving clients throughout the United States. KCI is recognized as an industry leader, employing cutting-edge technologies, management practices and strategic growth initiatives. Employee ownership fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encourages technical expertise, and shapes strategic planning.

KCI is currently ranked #50 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 design firms in the nation.

KCI BENEFITS INFORMATION

We offer a competitive compensation package, family friendly benefits, a collaborative working environment, and the training, mentoring and resources you need to advance in your career.

We understand that you have choices, and we know that together we will make a great team!

KCI is committed to building a diverse and inclusive staff, and we encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals with disabilities to apply.

KCI Technologies, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

Duties, Responsibilities & Other

The Distribution Engineering Designer IV (DED IV) position is the fourth level of the DED career track where progression is based on time in grade and performance.  This career track is tasked with providing designs for electrical distribution systems including but not limited to:  Overhead and underground circuits for joint use, lighting, and commercial, industrial and residential development.  This track is responsible for using technical engineering calculations and analysis incorporating accurate field data collection to complete design work.  This role will assist with storm restoration when requested, especially as a damage assessor or team lead.  The DED IV role involves overseeing complex design projects and providing guidance and training to peers and new designers.  The DED IV will be expected to direct site meetings with clients/customers and construction crews to progress their projects.  The DED IV will directly communicate with clients to request additional work or project opportunities, in addition to tracking progress of their projects.

This position primarily involves working in an office environment.  There is an expectation of significant field work, which may include exposure to inclement weather conditions such as extreme heat/cold, high humidity, rain, snow and icy conditions.  Field exposure to insects, animals and vegetation may pose a threat.

Key Technical Skills Required:

  • CAD experience
  • Power Distribution experience
  • Pole Analysis software
  • WMS experience (ex. Maximo)
  • Understanding of Electrical Components
  • Circuit knowledge of electrical components
  • Advanced distribution techniques (switchgear, cap bank)
  • Conduit systems
  • Advancing knowledge of reliability schemes
  • Field and work zone safety

 

Your key responsibilities include:

  • Producing high-quality computer-aided electric distribution design drawings and Bill Of Material (BOM) necessary for the construction of complex projects without oversight.
  • Demonstrating very high proficiency in client distribution design software platform.
  • Providing guidance to peers and training newer designers for their assigned projects.
  • Performing field data collection using standard tools, methods and processes and performing necessary project-specific inspections accurately and efficiently.
  • Becoming familiar with technical analysis which can include cable pulling calculations, cable voltage drop calculations, transformer loading calculations, and pole loading analysis calculations.
  • Gaining understanding of client construction standards, construction and workflow processes, and customer charging guidelines, as required.
  • Generating permitting and other project supporting documentation, as needed.
  • Exhibiting ability to communicate with clients and leading site meetings without a need oversight.
  • Demonstrating ability to pursue work from the Client .
  • Understanding the hazards and dangers of the distribution system and how to navigate their role to prevent dangerous situations and mitigating hazards during the office and field portion of their role.
  • Actively looking out for others' safety in all aspects of this work.
  • Attending and engaging in scheduled safety meetings and adhering to driving and site hazard identification, mitigation and reporting training.
  • Incumbents will have the ability to work on a storm response local or travel team as an Assessor or Team Lead as needed.
  • This role will work under minimal supervision for mentorship, guidance and training.
Qualifications
  • Four-year ABET-accredited Engineering degree and seven years of relevant experience with a minimum of three of those years in distribution design.  An active PE license can replace two years of relevant work experience.
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • PE license is desired.
  • Pre-employment drug screening and background check are conditions of employment. Motor vehicle checks may be required based upon position.
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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