Distribution Engineer

Distribution Design Engineer I

Looking for your first engineering position that actually offers training and development toward a long‑term career in the utility industry. Apply NOW!

This individual will be responsible for independently developing design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems for electric utility customers. The individual will review work provided by the client and assess requirements of the scopes. They will receive field work information that will be used to create designs for the final package or they could be called to go out into the field (within 1‑hour radius of home) to collect needed field data themselves.

The role may also involve assisting with potential permits needed for utility lines to crossroads, easements, private property, or orders to cut down certain trees where the new lines will run. The individual will use Pole Foreman or PLA/Pole Loading Analysis or similar software to provide structural analysis for wood pole integrity and determine if replacement is needed. This software will also help with wood pole loading, guying calculations, specifying conductor sags and tensions for recommended spans, and calculation of voltage drop and flicker.

They will work with a designated final Quality Control approver on any necessary changes or revisions before the final electrical distribution design package is submitted to the end client. Frequent communication via e‑mail, phone, in person, and Teams with the client is required.

• Conduct fieldwork to gather notes, pictures, and measurements.
• Design using a CAD tool the power distribution upgrade of the current distribution lines and design the distribution connection to new built sites.
• Create work packages based on field data to develop electrical drawings.
• Perform electrical analysis, including structural analysis of poles, electric demand, and transformer sizing.
• Select materials and create a Bill of Materials using SAP software.
• Collaborate with utility companies and field installation teams.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, adjusting fieldwork schedules as needed.

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil) OR an Associate's with work experience.
• 0–2 years of relevant experience in utility or consulting roles.
• Proficiency in CAD tools such as AutoCAD and Microstation.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to make routine recommendations.
• Excellent communication skills for client interactions.

• Experience with the National Electric Safety Code (NESC).
• Familiarity with Pole Foreman, SAP, and Microstation.
• Valid driver license.
• Ability to lift 20 pounds and walk up to 2 miles on unpaved surfaces.
• Reliable transportation.

The typical workload includes 10–20% field inspections, 60–80% engineering and development of design packages, and 10% administrative tasks and customer follow‑up.

This is a Contract‑to‑Hire position based out of Traverse City, MI. You will work remotely about 80% of the time and on‑site about 20% of the time.

Pay range: $29.00–$29.00 /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.

• 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)

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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.

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