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Freelance Power Distribution Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

K&A Engineering

Distribution Engineer II

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$78 - $108/hr

K&A Power Group is a privately held engineering firm delivering worldclass technical expertise and ... Distribution Engineer II - Oakbrook, IL This role involves designing underground, residential, and ...

K&A Engineering

Distribution Engineer II

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$78K - $108K/yr

K&A Power Group - is a privately held engineering firm delivering worldclass technical expertise ... We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Distribution Engineer II to join our team at K&A ...

HDR

Power Distribution Team Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

Serve as Assistant Project Manager or engineering lead on power distribution projects, contributing to project planning, execution, and delivery while supporting broader team management ...

HDR

Power Distribution Team Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

Serve as Assistant Project Manager or engineering lead on power distribution projects, contributing to project planning, execution, and delivery while supporting broader team management ...

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All JobsPower Distribution Engineer JobsFreelance Power Distribution Engineer JobsFreelance Power Distribution Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Power Distribution Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$82.4K

$116.4K

$146.8K

How much do freelance power distribution engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance power distribution engineer in Chicago, IL is $116,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,400.00 and $131,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance power distribution engineer?

Freelance Power Distribution Engineers are independent professionals who design, analyze, and oversee the implementation of electrical power distribution systems for various clients or projects. They are responsible for ensuring that electrical systems distribute power safely and efficiently to residential, commercial, or industrial sites. Unlike full-time engineers employed by a single company, freelancers work on a project-by-project basis, allowing them flexibility and the opportunity to work with multiple organizations. Their work may involve creating electrical layouts, specifying equipment, ensuring compliance with regulations, and troubleshooting issues in existing systems.

How do freelance power distribution engineers typically manage projects and client communication without a fixed team structure?

As a Freelance Power Distribution Engineer, you are often responsible for overseeing your projects from start to finish, which includes direct client communication, project scheduling, and technical design tasks. Without a fixed team structure, freelancers frequently use digital collaboration tools to coordinate with clients, utility representatives, and subcontractors. Regular updates, clear documentation, and proactive communication are essential to ensure project goals and deadlines are met. Many freelancers find success by developing strong organizational habits and leveraging professional networks to access specialized expertise when needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance power distribution engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Power Distribution Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, experience with power systems design, and usually a relevant engineering degree or certification such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, ETAP, and SKM PowerTools, as well as knowledge of applicable codes (e.g., NEC, IEEE), is critical. Strong project management, communication, and client relationship skills help differentiate top freelancers in this role. These competencies ensure safe, reliable power distribution solutions and successful project delivery in a competitive freelance market.

What is the difference between Freelance Power Distribution Engineer vs Power Systems Engineer?

AspectFreelance Power Distribution EngineerPower Systems Engineer
CredentialsRelevant engineering degree, certifications like PE or PMP beneficialEngineering degree, often with advanced certifications in power systems
Work EnvironmentIndependent projects, consulting, contract-based workFull-time employment in utilities, consulting firms, or industrial companies
Industry UsageUsed by clients seeking specialized, flexible power distribution solutionsUsed by organizations managing large-scale power systems and infrastructure

Freelance Power Distribution Engineers typically work independently on specific projects, focusing on designing and optimizing power distribution systems. Power Systems Engineers usually work within organizations, handling broader system planning and management. Both roles require relevant credentials, but their work environments and employment types differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Freelance Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Freelance Power Distribution Engineer jobs near you

Power Distribution and Cable System Engineer

WASEYABEK DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LLC

Batavia, IL • On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Mission

Waséyabek Federal Services, LLC (WFS) is a 100% Tribally owned, Native American SBA 8(a) small business of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP). WFS is part of a portfolio of companies managed by Waséyabek Development Company, LLC, a 100% Tribally owned economic development firm focused on income diversification on behalf of NHBP that reaches beyond gaming is a well-funded, experienced small business with substantial liquid assets and experience in federal contracting. WFS has borrowing capacity to meet the daily cash needs of new business development, new award support, and operational working capital. WFS is well-versed in federal contract compliance and providing outstanding support services

Position Summary:

Join the Waseyabke team at the Accelerator Directorate (AD) as a Power Distribution and Cable System Engineer. In this role, you'll be part of AD's Power Electronic Systems Department (PESD), where you'll be responsible for designing, installing, operating, maintaining, and repairing distribution for DC and pulsed power systems. AD has over 150 MVA of thyristor controlled pulsed power on a medium voltage distribution system and 75 MVA of thyristor controlled pulsed power on a low voltage distribution system. These systems are crucial for powering particle accelerators and beam-line magnets and loads.

Responsibilities:

  • Be part of a project team and lead projects related to power supplies and electrical power.
  • Plan and manage electrical distribution projects to meet deadlines and budgets.
  • Handle the procurement of electrical power distribution equipment from requisition to installation, testing, and commissioning.
  • Offer engineering support for the operation and maintenance of power distribution systems.
  • Monitor the performance of electrical systems and suggesting improvements.
  • Analyze system failures and recommending solutions.
  • Review electrical installations.
  • Manage cable plant activities for all electrical cables, including power, control, and signal cables.
  • Design cable routes and layouts and documenting them accordingly.
  • Develop documents for cable procurement and installation.
  • Maintain records of engineering tasks for future reference.

Minimum Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from an ABET accredited institution with a minimum of 5 years of experience in electrical power systems or power distribution OR a master's degree in electrical engineering and 2 years of experience in electrical power systems or power distribution
  • Demonstrated ability to lean new concepts and ideas
  • Familiarity with high power thyristor or rectifier systems
  • Experience in design of low and/or medium voltage high power distribution
  • Experience with test equipment, experience with switchgear a plus
  • Familiarity with NEC and NFPA70E and its application in low voltage systems
  • Experience working with equipment manufacturers and vendors a plus
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office
  • Knowledge and experience in electrical distribution simulation tools, ETAP or SKM, is a plus
  • Knowledge and experience in computer aided drafting tools is a plus
  • Abide by and be responsible for performing all duties in accordance with all environmental, health and safety regulations and practices pertinent to this position

Disclaimer:

Please note that the described work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs and is notguaranteed to be final.

Onsite: This is an onsite role, and the candidate must be able to work from our Batavia office.