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Utility Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Utility Design Engineer information

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$35K

$96.8K

$167K

How much do utility design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for utility design engineer in the United States is $96,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $118,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Utility Design Engineer, you need a solid background in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Proficiency in CAD software, GIS systems, and utility modeling tools is essential for designing and planning utility infrastructure. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and address complex design challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant utility systems that meet regulatory and client requirements.

What are Utility Design Engineers?

Utility Design Engineers are professionals who plan, design, and oversee the installation and maintenance of utility infrastructure such as water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications systems. They ensure that utility systems are safe, efficient, and compliant with regulatory standards. Their work involves creating detailed engineering drawings, coordinating with contractors and utility companies, and solving technical challenges related to utility networks.

What are some common challenges faced by Utility Design Engineers when coordinating with multiple stakeholders on a project?

Utility Design Engineers often work with a diverse group of stakeholders, including utility companies, contractors, government agencies, and clients. One common challenge is aligning the differing priorities and technical requirements of each party while ensuring compliance with regulations and safety standards. Effective communication, proactive conflict resolution, and detailed documentation are essential to navigate these complexities and keep projects on schedule. Developing strong project management skills and adaptability can help engineers succeed in these collaborative environments.

What is the difference between Utility Design Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectUtility Design EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentUtility companies, infrastructure projectsManufacturing, construction, power systems
Industry UsagePower utilities, infrastructure developmentElectrical systems design, electronics, power generation

The Utility Design Engineer focuses on designing and planning utility infrastructure such as power lines and substations, primarily within utility companies. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems across various industries, including manufacturing and electronics. While both roles require similar technical credentials, their work environments and project focuses differ significantly.

More about Utility Design Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Utility Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,779 per year, or $46.5 per hour.
Utility Design Engineer

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Plan and formulates design structures. Performs structural analysis and design recommendations. Reviews product design for compliance with engineering principles, organization standards and customer requirements. Directs integration of technical activities and products. Evaluates and approves design changes, specifications and drawing releases.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Design of high voltage (69 kV to 500 kV) transmission lines using PLS-pole.

  • Creation of comprehensive drawing packages within the utility infrastructure industry for transmission line systems.

  • Providing mentorship to the engineering team.

  • Communications with customers to gain clarifications and technical decisions where necessary.

  • Perform computer modeling and sizing of structures and transmission line components.

  • Preparing engineering drawings from rough sketches or general engineering and design information (verbal instructions and notes) using AutoCAD

  • Performing problem analysis, design layout, and calculations on substantial variety and complexity of non-routine assignments.

  • Working on various assignments using prescribed methods and standard techniques, including drawing sequence and presentation, sizing various system components, and refining rough sketches.

  • Coordination with drafting and detailing for the conversion of design information into drawings.

  • Producing initial rough designs, sketches, redlines, or mark-ups on ongoing projects.

  • Analyzing reports, drawings, and tests, to plan and design projects.

  • Applying design codes and specifications related to design requirements.

  • Completing and reviewing design drawings within scope, budget, and schedule. Perform project tasks and assignments within budgeted hours and deadlines.

  • Assist shop personnel in floor issues as needed.

REQUIRED SKILLS / ATTITUDES:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills (MS office)

  • Proficiency in design software to develop the design deliverables. Must be proficient with PLS Pole and AutoCAD.

  • Experience in heavy structural fabrication.

  • Experience with tower structures

  • Comprehend and interpret safety codes, utility standards, and regulations (NESC, ASCE, IEEE, AASHTO, AWS, ASTM).

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree in civil or Structural Engineering. PE certification a plus