Distribution Design Engineering I

Job Title: Distribution Design Engineer I

Job Description

The Distribution Design Engineer I plans, engineers, and designs electric and gas distribution systems that support safe, reliable, and efficient power delivery. This entry-level role focuses on developing work packages, performing basic engineering and design calculations, and supporting field activities to ensure that distribution infrastructure meets economic, environmental, social, regulatory, and reliability requirements. The position works under supervision on less complex assignments and contributes to the development of solutions using established principles and procedures.

Responsibilities

Plan and design electric and gas distribution systems in alignment with established engineering standards, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Determine the need, size, location, and timing of power delivery infrastructure to balance economic, environmental, social, and regulatory constraints with reliability needs.
Develop work packages for overhead and underground residential distribution projects, including required documentation and technical details.
Support the engineering and design of underground cable and conduit systems for power distribution.
Perform basic field engineering activities, including visiting sites in the assigned area to collect pictures, measurements, and other data related to existing power distribution assets.
Identify and document conflicting utilities or site conditions that may affect design or construction activities.
Conduct routine engineering and design calculations using established methods and tools to support project requirements.
Assist with post-construction reviews to verify that completed work aligns with design specifications and standards.
Follow established procedures and policies to solve simple, routine technical problems within the distribution design scope.
Collaborate and communicate with peers to explain facts, basic analyses, processes, and practices related to distribution design projects.
Maintain accurate records of design work, field data, and project documentation in accordance with company standards.

Essential Skills

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience.
Less than 2 years of prior relevant engineering experience, preferably in power distribution or a related field.
Basic knowledge of engineering principles, theories, and concepts within a technical domain relevant to electric or gas distribution.
Ability to apply established engineering procedures and policies to solve simple, routine technical problems.
Fundamental understanding of electric and/or gas distribution system components and configurations.
Ability to perform basic engineering and design calculations accurately.
Capacity to develop and interpret technical work packages for distribution projects.
Ability to conduct field measurements and accurately document existing conditions, including photographs and dimensional data.
Effective written and verbal communication skills to interact with peers and explain basic analyses and processes.
Ability to work under supervision, take direction, and complete assignments within defined scopes and timelines.
Attention to detail and commitment to following safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Bachelor’s in Engineering with a focus on electrical, civil, or a related discipline is preferred.
Experience or coursework related to power systems, utility distribution, or infrastructure design is beneficial.
Familiarity with design engineering concepts and practices for overhead and underground distribution systems.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, maps, and technical documentation.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills within an entry-level engineering context.
Willingness to learn new tools, processes, and standards related to distribution design engineering.
Ability to work both independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively within a project team.

Work Environment

This role follows a hybrid work model, with approximately 80% of the time spent working from home and 20% in the field within the area being supported. Remote work typically involves performing design engineering tasks, preparing work packages, conducting calculations, and collaborating with team members using standard office and engineering software tools. Field work involves visiting distribution sites to collect photographs, measurements, and other data on existing power distribution infrastructure, which may require walking over varied terrain and working in outdoor conditions. The position operates within a structured environment that emphasizes adherence to established procedures, safety practices, and quality standards, while providing guidance and supervision appropriate for an entry-level engineer.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of West Branch, MI.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $29.00/hr.

Requirements

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 West Branch,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 19, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, Diversity And Inclusion Are a Bridge Towards The Equity And Success Of Our People. DE&I Is Embedded Into Our Culture Through

Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
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