Design Engineer - Electric Distribution

ENTRUST Solutions Group is seeking a Design Engineer to support electric distribution design projects for our client in Chicagoland and Northern IL. This position offers an excellent opportunity for both entry-level and experienced candidates who are interested in building a career in the electric utility industry. This is a hybrid role with approximately 2-3 days per week in our client’s office or in the field.

In this role, you will work alongside experienced utility engineers, designers, and project stakeholders while contributing to projects that improve electric service reliability and support community growth. The collaborative work environment provides significant opportunities for mentorship, technical development, and exposure to utility operations.

• Design overhead and underground electric distribution facilities supporting residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

• Develop construction-ready design packages using AutoCAD and other utility design software.

• Prepare engineering drawings, layouts, equipment specifications, and construction documentation.

• Support electric service extensions for new customer developments and load growth projects.

• Apply utility standards, design practices, and safety requirements throughout project development.

• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, field personnel, and leadership to deliver successful projects.

• Perform design calculations, material takeoffs, and cost estimates.

• Participate in project planning, scheduling, and coordination activities.

• Conduct field visits to gather site information and support project development.

• Assist with permitting, easement coordination, and construction support as needed.

• Ensure designs meet quality expectations, project schedules, and client requirements.

Projects may include:

• Underground conversions of existing overhead facilities.

• Design of underground cable systems, transformers, switch gear, and associated equipment.

• Designing electric distribution facilities to serve new residential subdivisions and commercial developments.

• Extending overhead and underground primary distribution systems to support customer growth.

• Pole replacement programs.

• Conductor upgrades and reconductoring projects.

• Feeder improvements to improve system reliability and reduce outage risk.

• Distribution system upgrades supporting increased customer demand.

• Equipment upgrades for load growth and infrastructure modernization.

• Incorporation of new technologies and utility standards.

• Support for resiliency and distribution system improvement programs.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering

• Must be located in the Chicago area

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally for project and field activities.

• Experience with electric utility distribution design.

• Familiarity with overhead and underground electric distribution systems.

• Experience using AutoCAD, Micro Station, GIS, or similar design software.

• Knowledge of utility construction practices and design standards.

• Understanding of NESC, utility specifications, and engineering documentation practices.

• Previous experience working for a utility, engineering consulting firm, utility contractor, or electric cooperative.

We welcome candidates ranging from recent engineering graduates to experienced utility design professionals. Successful candidates will be eager to learn, enjoy working in a collaborative team environment, and have an interest in supporting infrastructure projects that…