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Utility Distribution Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sargent & Lundy

Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Cary, NC

$68.33K - $104.39K/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 ...

Sargent & Lundy

Distribution Designer 3 - Grid

Cary, NC

$68.33K - $104.39K/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 ...

Entergy

Distribution Designer I - Sr

Arkadelphia, AR · On-site

$90.30K - $96.50K/yr

Bachelor's degree (any disciple) OR b.2-year Technical Associates degree OR c.1-year Electric Utility Distribution (or Transmission) Design experience OR d.> 2 years of Electric Utility field ...

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How much do utility distribution design jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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.

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.

More about Utility Distribution Design jobs
What job categories do people searching Utility Distribution Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Distribution Design jobs are:
Utility Distribution Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Distribution Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Electrical Engineer - Distribution Design

Hansoninc

Lisle, IL • On-site

$147K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Hanson Values

Integrity | Commitment | Quality | Relationships | Innovation

If you're looking for a firm that encourages innovative thinking and challenges you every day, with an opportunity to learn and advance, a career at Hanson is right for you. The belief in sustainability within our company's practices creates a focus on client success and partnerships that are important to our communities and our environment.

Electrical Engineer - Distribution Design


Position: Full-Time

Location: Any (Florida and Illinois preferred)
Licensing: Professional Engineer (PE) Required

About the Role

Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking an experienced Electrical Engineer specializing in Distribution System Design to support electric utility and power delivery projects. This senior-level role is ideal for a Professional Engineer with strong experience in utility distribution systems, including overhead and underground distribution, system upgrades, reliability improvements, and customer-driven projects.

The successful candidate will bring technical depth, leadership capability, and hands-on experience supporting transmission and distribution (T&D) utilities, municipal power providers, or utility engineering consultants.

Key Responsibilities

Distribution Engineering & Design

  • Lead the design of overhead and underground electrical distribution systems, typically ranging from 4 kV to 35 kV.

  • Develop design packages for:

  • New distribution lines and system expansions

  • System hardening and resiliency upgrades

  • Reconductoring and voltage conversion projects

  • Service extensions and customer interconnections

  • Prepare construction drawings, material lists, staking sheets, and technical specifications.

  • Perform system calculations including:

  • Voltage drop

  • Short-circuit analysis

  • Load analysis and feeder balancing

Utility Coordination & System Integration

  • Apply utility standards, specifications, and design criteria to distribution projects.

  • Coordinate designs with transmission, substation, protection, and civil teams.

  • Support integration of:

  • Distribution automation

  • Voltage regulation equipment

  • Protective devices (reclosers, sectionalizers, fuses)

  • Ensure compatibility with existing utility systems and operational practices.

Project Leadership & Technical Oversight

  • Serve as lead engineer or subject matter expert for distribution design efforts.

  • Provide technical guidance and QA/QC reviews for drawings, calculations, and design deliverables.

  • Support project managers with:

  • Scope development

  • Cost estimates

  • Schedule planning

  • Risk identification

  • Mentor junior engineers and designers.

Industry Tools & Standards

  • Design in accordance with applicable standards and codes, including:

  • NESC

  • IEEE

  • ANSI

  • NEC (as applicable)

  • Utility-specific distribution standards

  • Utilize commonly used software and tools:

  • CYME, Synergi, or WindMil (preferred)

  • SKM, ETAP, or EasyPower

  • AutoCAD or MicroStation

  • Maintain working knowledge of distribution construction practices and materials.

Client & Field Support

  • Work directly with electric utilities, municipalities, and power providers.

  • Support construction through:

  • Review of contractor submittals

  • Responses to RFIs

  • Site visits and field observations

  • Provide engineering support to resolve constructability or operational issues.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or related discipline.

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license (required).

  • Minimum 8 years of experience in electric distribution engineering.

  • Prior experience working with:

  • Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs)

  • Public utilities or cooperatives

  • Utility engineering consulting firms

  • Strong understanding of distribution system operations and utility standards.

  • Proven ability to lead engineering tasks and collaborate across disciplines.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with storm hardening, grid modernization, or resiliency programs.

  • Familiarity with distribution automation and smart grid technologies.

  • Experience coordinating with joint-use utilities and right-of-way stakeholders.

  • Experience supporting proposals, cost estimating, and schedule development.

  • Experience mentoring junior engineers or serving as a technical lead.

Soft Skills & Competencies

  • Strong technical judgment and attention to detail

  • Ability to work independently and lead complex tasks

  • Client-focused and solutions-oriented mindset

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills

  • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Working at Hanson

  • Employee-owned firm offering long-term career growth and stability

  • Collaborative environment across disciplines and offices

  • Willingness to support occasional field work and travel

  • Valid driver's license required

Salary Range: ($147,000-$175,000)

Benefits

Our focus on people means we offer a generous benefits program to help you create a solid foundation for health and security throughout your career, including:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Performance bonuses
  • 401(k) with matching contribution
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • Comprehensive health & well-being plans
  • Financial wellness plans
  • Work-life balance programs

Want to know more? Visitour benefits pagefor all the details.

Culture

We understand that selecting a job is about more than the day-to-day tasks. It's important to feel like you belong and safe to grow and progress along your career path. You'll find that at Hanson. We have an inclusive, diverse workforce awaiting to connect with you and numerous opportunities to cultivate your career, including:

  • Monthly educational webinars
  • Leadership training
  • Lunch & learn development sessions
  • 24/7 access to thousands of skill-building courses
  • Mentorship opportunities
  • Award-winning internship program
  • Employee recognition
  • And so much more!

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EEO - EMPLOYER

We do not accept unsolicited resumesfrom recruiters or agencies/staffing firms.Resumesare only accepted from recruiters and agency/staffing firms if a signed agreement is in place at the inception of the recruiting effort and authorized for a specified position.

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