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Utility Distribution Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Design Engineer

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site +1

$34.18 - $48.83/hr

Distribution Design Engineer (Remote - Minnesota)Build the Future of Power Infrastructure Are you ... Exposure to nationwide utility programs and industry-leading technologies * The ability to make a ...

Distribution Designer

Rockland, MA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

A Distribution Designer provides design for complex distribution projects. Must have knowledge of electric utility distribution systems. Responsibilities: * Performing Field Survey of Distribution ...

Distribution Designer

Rockland, MA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

A Distribution Designer provides design for complex distribution projects. Must have knowledge of electric utility distribution systems. Responsibilities: * Performing Field Survey of Distribution ...

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Utility Distribution Design information

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$13

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$26

How much do utility distribution design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility distribution design in the United States is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is utility distribution design?

Utility Distribution Design is the process of planning and creating the layouts for electrical, water, gas, or other utility distribution systems. This includes determining the most efficient and safe way to deliver utilities from the source to homes, businesses, and other facilities. Designers consider technical requirements, safety regulations, and the needs of the community while creating plans for both new installations and upgrades to existing systems. The role often involves using specialized software, working with engineers, and coordinating with utility companies and local authorities.

What is the difference between Utility Distribution Design vs Utility Substation Design?

AspectUtility Distribution DesignUtility Substation Design
CertificationsPE license, engineering degreesPE license, engineering degrees
Work EnvironmentField and office, focusing on distribution networksField and office, focusing on substation infrastructure
Industry UsageDesigning local power distribution systemsDesigning substations for power transmission
Common Search/ComparisonUtility Distribution Design vs Utility Substation Design

Utility Distribution Design and Utility Substation Design both require engineering credentials and involve designing electrical infrastructure. Distribution design focuses on local power networks delivering electricity to consumers, while substation design centers on larger infrastructure that step up or step down voltage levels for transmission. Understanding these differences helps professionals and employers identify the right expertise for specific projects within the power industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility distribution design professional?

To thrive as a Utility Distribution Design professional, you need a strong background in electrical engineering principles, utility standards, and design practices, often supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CAD software, GIS systems, and industry-specific design tools, as well as certifications like EIT or PE, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable you to collaborate with cross-functional teams and address complex project requirements. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient utility distribution systems that meet regulatory and customer needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in utility distribution design roles, and how can new hires effectively navigate them?

Utility Distribution Design professionals often encounter challenges related to balancing regulatory compliance, evolving technology, and coordination with multiple stakeholders such as engineers, field crews, and municipal authorities. New hires can effectively navigate these challenges by developing strong communication skills, staying updated on industry standards, and actively seeking collaboration with cross-functional teams. Being proactive about learning utility-specific design software and understanding local permitting processes can also help streamline project workflows and build credibility within the team.
More about Utility Distribution Design jobs
Infographic showing various Utility Distribution Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Distribution Design Engineer

Actalent

Saint Paul, MN โ€ข On-site, Remote

$34.18 - $48.83/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Distribution Design Engineer (Remote – Minnesota)Build the Future of Power Infrastructure

Are you an experienced Distribution Design Engineer looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on utility infrastructure projects? Join a team that values technical excellence, innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. In this role, you'll contribute to critical electric distribution projects while working alongside industry experts who are committed to delivering high-quality solutions for utility customers across the country.

Why You'll Love Working Here

We believe great work starts with great people. Our employees enjoy:

  • Opportunities to work on high-profile, impactful infrastructure projects
  • A collaborative environment that encourages innovation and knowledge-sharing
  • Strong commitment to employee development, training, and career advancement
  • A culture focused on safety, quality, and technical excellence
  • The flexibility of remote work while remaining connected to a highly skilled team
  • Exposure to nationwide utility programs and industry-leading technologies
  • The ability to make a tangible difference in strengthening America's electric grid

Position Summary

As a Distribution Design Engineer, you will play a key role in the delivery of utility distribution projects by performing engineering design, quality assurance, and technical leadership functions. You will be responsible for supporting project execution from initial design through permitting and construction support while ensuring compliance with applicable safety standards, regulations, and customer requirements.

The ideal candidate has experience in electric distribution design, utility engineering, AutoCAD, GIS systems, and project coordination.


Key Responsibilities
  • Perform QA/QC reviews to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and quality of engineering deliverables.
  • Manage project workloads and provide technical guidance to team members.
  • Develop overhead and underground electric distribution designs using AutoCAD.
  • Prepare engineering designs for utility distribution projects.
  • Perform drafting, engineering calculations, and easement validation.
  • Develop cost estimates for design and construction activities.
  • Prepare permit packages and support permitting requirements.
  • Coordinate surveys, inspections, testing activities, and project documentation.
  • Review GIS Smallworld data for updates, discrepancies, and potential conflicts.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and customer expectations.
  • Coordinate with internal teams, clients, and stakeholders to support successful project delivery.
  • Interpret and process civil permit documentation and electronic pole diagrams.
  • Ensure all designs comply with applicable safety standards, utility construction standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Support utility infrastructure upgrades and expansions across diverse service territories.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
  • Experience in electric utility distribution design, power systems, electrical construction, or a related field.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD.
  • Experience working with GIS platforms, including Smallworld.
  • Strong understanding of overhead and underground electric distribution systems.
  • Ability to perform engineering calculations and prepare technical design documents.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and project management skills.
  • U.S. Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with civil design and permitting processes.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) certification.
  • Experience supporting utility construction or field operations.
  • Knowledge of utility design standards, permitting requirements, and right-of-way/easement processes.

Work Location
  • Remote position
  • Candidates must reside in Minnesota
  • Future transition to a hybrid work arrangement as local office operations expand

What Success Looks Like

In this role, you will consistently deliver technically sound designs, maintain high quality standards, effectively manage competing priorities, and help utility customers achieve their infrastructure goals safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

If you're passionate about electric distribution design and want to grow your career while contributing to projects that power communities across the nation, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint Paul, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $34.18 - $48.83/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Saint Paul,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 17, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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