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Power Distribution Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Thayer Power & Communication is seeking an Electrical Distribution Engineer to join our dynamic team and contribute to the design, analysis, and implementation of electrical distribution systems.

Electrical Engineer - Power

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Knowledge of all aspects of electrical engineering including power distribution, lighting, grounding, and value engineering for constructible projects is beneficial. Engineer will be working with ...

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Electrical Engineer - Power Distribution Location: Auburn Hills, MI Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire About the Opportunity This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced electrical engineer who ...

Electrical Engineer - Power Distribution Location: Auburn Hills, MI Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire About the Opportunity This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced electrical engineer who ...

Distribution Designer Intern

Warren, MI ยท On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... power distribution engineering. The ideal candidate is currently pursuing a degree in engineering or a related discipline and has an interest in electric utility design and infrastructure. Key ...

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Power Distribution Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$79K

$111.7K

$140.8K

How much do power distribution engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for power distribution engineer in Detroit, MI is $111,692.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,300.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a power distribution engineer?

A Power Distribution Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, maintaining, and improving electrical distribution systems that deliver electricity from substations to homes, businesses, and industries. They ensure that the electrical infrastructure operates safely, efficiently, and reliably by planning network layouts, selecting appropriate equipment, and addressing any issues that arise. Power Distribution Engineers often work with utility companies, contractors, and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with safety standards and codes. Their role is critical in supporting the growing demands on electrical grids and integrating new technologies such as renewable energy sources.

What does a power distribution engineer do?

As a power distribution engineer, your primary responsibilities involve the design and maintenance of electrical distribution systems. Your duties include developing site electrical procedures, providing technical guidance for wiring systems, overseeing an electrical system operation from start to finish, ensuring applications meet regulation standards, and providing technical support to various personnel. You typically also develop project timelines and programming reports, estimate costs, define testing criteria, and help implement new engineering methods. You also interface with vendors, utility companies, consultants, and external contractors to oversee installations and equipment maintenance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power distribution engineer?

To thrive as a Power Distribution Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems analysis, and often a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, ETAP, and SCADA systems, as well as relevant certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborating with teams and addressing technical challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring reliable, safe, and efficient power delivery within complex electrical networks.

What are some typical challenges a power distribution engineer faces when coordinating with utility companies and construction teams?

Power Distribution Engineers often navigate complex coordination between utility companies, construction teams, and local authorities to ensure projects stay on schedule and comply with safety standards. Challenges can include managing changes in project scope, resolving unexpected site conditions, and balancing multiple stakeholders' priorities. Effective communication, adaptability, and a solid understanding of regulatory requirements are essential to overcoming these hurdles and ensuring successful project delivery.

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

AspectPower Distribution EngineerPower Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, PE license common
Work EnvironmentDesigning and maintaining electrical distribution systems, fieldwork, substation workAnalyzing and optimizing entire power systems, simulations, planning
Industry UsageUtilities, construction, infrastructure projectsUtilities, consulting firms, power generation companies

Power Distribution Engineers focus on designing and maintaining electrical distribution systems, ensuring reliable power delivery at the local level. Power Systems Engineers work on the broader power grid, analyzing and optimizing entire electrical networks. While both roles require similar credentials and often work within the utility industry, their scope and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Power Distribution Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Power Distribution Engineer jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Power Distribution Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Power Distribution Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,692 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Distribution Engineer

Thayer Power and Communication

Warren, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

EOE: race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability
Job Summary:
Founded in 1964, Thayer Power & Communication Line Construction Co., LLC has established itself as one of the premier contractors in the Telecommunications and Power industries. With our experienced staff and fleet of vehicles, we are able to meet telephone and power construction needs from concept through to reality.
Thayer Power & Communication is seeking an Electrical Distribution Engineer to join our dynamic team and contribute to the design, analysis, and implementation of electrical distribution systems. This role supports our Distribution Engineering Projects for Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs), Coops, and Municipalities ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and client requirements. The ideal candidate will have experience in providing engineering solutions for overhead and underground distribution networks.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Develop engineering designs for overhead and underground distribution systems (4kV-35kV).
  • Perform power system studies including load flow analysis, short circuit studies, and protection coordination.
  • Prepare construction drawings, material lists, and cost estimates for distribution engineering projects.
  • Support multi-stakeholder projects, coordinating with utilities, municipalities, and private clients.
  • Ensure all designs meet NESC, IEEE, and client-specific standards.
  • Integrate safety, reliability, and constructability considerations into every design.
  • Work closely with project managers, field crews, and stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within budget.
  • Coordinate with permitting agencies and regulatory bodies to ensure smooth project execution.
  • Utilize engineering software such as CYME, or similar tools for modeling and design.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and records for all projects.

Qualifications:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • Experience:
    • 2+ years in electrical distribution design or utility engineering.
    • Experience with overhead and underground distribution systems.

  • Skills:
    • Strong understanding of power systems, protective devices, and construction practices.
    • Experience in any power system modeling software such as CYME, ETAP, PSS/E or others.

Certifications: EIT or PE license preferred (or ability to obtain).
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
To Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our company does not accept unsolicited CVs or applications from agencies. We are not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited CVs or applications and explicitly reserve the right to contact candidates presented in such unsolicited CV or application.
All applicants who are offered employment with Thayer Infrastructure Services or one of it's subsidiaries, will be subject to a background investigation and drug test. Offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a background investigation and drug test conducted in accordance with Thayer Infrastructure policy and state law.
Our company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, color, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, Thayer Infrastructure Services complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.