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Utility Distribution Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$68K - $104K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

Distribution Designer 2 - Grid

Reading, PA ยท On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

Distribution Designer 2 - Grid

Reading, PA ยท On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$68K - $104K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Cary, NC ยท On-site

$68K - $104K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

Distribution Designer 2 - Grid

Metairie, LA ยท On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

Distribution Designer 2 - Grid

Metairie, LA ยท On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

Distribution Designer 2 - Grid

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree. * 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience ...

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Utility Distribution Design information

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How much do utility distribution design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 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, and why are they important?

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Cary, NC โ€ข On-site

$68K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description
This position will offer you the opportunity to work in a project team environment and lead other engineers and designers using your knowledge of engineering and design practices to:
  • Prepare/Review construction sketches and work packages for:
    • Overhead and underground distribution facilities (4 KV through 38 KV)
    • Pole loading analyses
    • Voltage drop and flicker calculations
    • Cable pulling
    • Bill of material
    • Cost estimates
    • Joint use coordination
    • Traffic control plans and/or permit drawings
  • Support preliminary project scoping.
  • Perform field work, when necessary.
  • Support maintenance and recapitalization of distribution components.
  • Plan modifications to the system as well as designing and overseeing complex tasks.
  • Provide construction support, when necessary.
  • Conduct client communication and interaction, when necessary.

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • This position requires an Associate's degree in a design-related degree, or a 4 year non-engineering degree.
  • 6 or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience to be able to review work by others.
  • Knowledgeable in physical distribution design methods and their application.
  • Knowledgeable in applicable codes, standards, and distribution software programs including AutoCAD, ArcGIS, PoleForeman, etc.
  • Familiarity with design codes and standards such as NESC, NEC, ANSI, IEEE, GIS/GWD.
  • Experience with complex overhead and underground distribution projects (120/208V through 38 kV).
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Able to lead a project team.

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • Experience in utility distribution inspections and/or construction.
  • Familiarity with various distribution design/analysis software.
  • Familiarity with GIS software.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$68,325 - $104,385
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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