Designer
Actalent, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
Job Title
Distribution Designer – Hybrid (2 days work at home, 3 days in office). Training provided.
Job Description The Distribution Designer independently develops detailed design and construction work packages for overhead and underground electrical distribution systems that serve residential and commercial customers. This role focuses primarily on overhead power distribution and involves interpreting client requirements, performing or leveraging field data collection, creating designs in utility‑specific software, and assembling complete construction packages that support new construction and reliability projects for electric utilities. The position offers the opportunity to grow with a rapidly expanding utility energy division and to build a long‑term career in power distribution design and engineering.
Responsibilities
Independently develop complete design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems, with a strong emphasis on overhead distribution.
Review client‑provided work orders and project documentation to understand scope, technical requirements, and design constraints.
Conduct or utilize field data collection, including taking site photos and measurements, to accurately document existing conditions at assigned locations.
Translate field information into detailed distribution designs that meet project requirements and utility standards.
Use Open Utilities (or similar utility design software) to design power distribution systems, including determining power requirements, defining main distribution panels, subpanels, transformers, and branch circuits.
Select appropriate equipment such as transformers, conductors, power lines, utility poles, and associated hardware, and lay out the physical configuration of the distribution system and required equipment.
Perform energy and load analysis to confirm that selected materials and equipment meet the electrical demand and usage requirements of each site, whether residential or commercial.
Develop accurate Bills of Materials (BOM) for each project and enter material information into SAP or other material tracking software.
Assist with identifying and preparing information for required permits, including permits for utility lines crossing roads, easements, private property, or areas where vegetation clearing or tree removal may be necessary.
Utilize pole analysis software such as PoleForeman, PLA, or similar pole loading analysis tools to evaluate the structural integrity and loading of wood poles and determine whether replacement or reinforcement is required.
Perform calculations related to pole loading, guying requirements, conductor sag and tension, recommended span lengths, and voltage drop or flicker.
Apply National Electric Safety Code (NESC) standards when developing designs and selecting materials to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
Collaborate with a designated Quality Control approver to review designs, address comments, and implement necessary revisions before final submission.
Prepare and submit complete electrical construction design packages, including photos, measurements, designs, BOMs, and permit documentation, for internal approval and then to the utility client.
Incorporate feedback and requested changes from the client and internal stakeholders, updating design packages as needed.
Communicate frequently with the client via email, phone, and online collaboration tools to clarify requirements, resolve design questions, and provide project updates.
Support new construction electrical work orders and distribution reliability projects for utility customers in the assigned territory.
Maintain accurate project records and documentation in accordance with company and client standards.
Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement by sharing best practices, supporting quality initiatives, and helping refine design processes.
Essential Skills
Design and drafting experience, or an associate degree with a major focused in Design or CAD.
Hands‑on experience with design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA, MicroStation, or similar CAD tools.
Ability to learn and use Open Utilities or other utility‑specific design software for electrical distribution design.
Fundamental understanding of electrical power distribution concepts, including transformers, circuits, power lines, and low voltage distribution (LVD).
Ability to interpret and apply National Electric Safety Code (NESC) requirements in distribution design and material selection.
Experience creating Bills of Materials (BOM) and familiarity with material tracking systems such as SAP or similar platforms.
Strong analytical skills to perform energy and load analysis and to determine appropriate equipment and conductor sizing.
Capability to perform structural and loading assessments for distribution poles using tools like PoleForeman, PLA, or other pole loading analysis software, or a strong willingness to learn these tools.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, maps, and GIS or spatial information related to utility infrastructure.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for frequent interaction with clients and internal teams.
Ability to perform effectively in a fast‑paced environment and to manage multiple work orders or projects simultaneously.
Capacity to think both quickly and strategically when addressing design challenges and client needs.
Relevant experience working directly with an electric utility, or coursework directly related to the utility industry or power grid.
Relevant experience with an electric utility consulting firm that specializes in distribution design or engineering work.
Strong customer and client service orientation, with the ability to collaborate closely with utility representatives.
Work Environment The work environment combines remote, office, and field‑based activities, with flexibility to adapt to what works best for each individual. You will work a home 2 days a week and in the office which is located in Grand Rapids, MI 3 days a week.
Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.
Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $22.00 – $25.00 per hour.
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 Grand Rapids, MI.
Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 5, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
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
Equal Opportunity Employer Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
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Job Description The Distribution Designer independently develops detailed design and construction work packages for overhead and underground electrical distribution systems that serve residential and commercial customers. This role focuses primarily on overhead power distribution and involves interpreting client requirements, performing or leveraging field data collection, creating designs in utility‑specific software, and assembling complete construction packages that support new construction and reliability projects for electric utilities. The position offers the opportunity to grow with a rapidly expanding utility energy division and to build a long‑term career in power distribution design and engineering.
Responsibilities
Independently develop complete design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems, with a strong emphasis on overhead distribution.
Review client‑provided work orders and project documentation to understand scope, technical requirements, and design constraints.
Conduct or utilize field data collection, including taking site photos and measurements, to accurately document existing conditions at assigned locations.
Translate field information into detailed distribution designs that meet project requirements and utility standards.
Use Open Utilities (or similar utility design software) to design power distribution systems, including determining power requirements, defining main distribution panels, subpanels, transformers, and branch circuits.
Select appropriate equipment such as transformers, conductors, power lines, utility poles, and associated hardware, and lay out the physical configuration of the distribution system and required equipment.
Perform energy and load analysis to confirm that selected materials and equipment meet the electrical demand and usage requirements of each site, whether residential or commercial.
Develop accurate Bills of Materials (BOM) for each project and enter material information into SAP or other material tracking software.
Assist with identifying and preparing information for required permits, including permits for utility lines crossing roads, easements, private property, or areas where vegetation clearing or tree removal may be necessary.
Utilize pole analysis software such as PoleForeman, PLA, or similar pole loading analysis tools to evaluate the structural integrity and loading of wood poles and determine whether replacement or reinforcement is required.
Perform calculations related to pole loading, guying requirements, conductor sag and tension, recommended span lengths, and voltage drop or flicker.
Apply National Electric Safety Code (NESC) standards when developing designs and selecting materials to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
Collaborate with a designated Quality Control approver to review designs, address comments, and implement necessary revisions before final submission.
Prepare and submit complete electrical construction design packages, including photos, measurements, designs, BOMs, and permit documentation, for internal approval and then to the utility client.
Incorporate feedback and requested changes from the client and internal stakeholders, updating design packages as needed.
Communicate frequently with the client via email, phone, and online collaboration tools to clarify requirements, resolve design questions, and provide project updates.
Support new construction electrical work orders and distribution reliability projects for utility customers in the assigned territory.
Maintain accurate project records and documentation in accordance with company and client standards.
Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement by sharing best practices, supporting quality initiatives, and helping refine design processes.
Essential Skills
Design and drafting experience, or an associate degree with a major focused in Design or CAD.
Hands‑on experience with design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA, MicroStation, or similar CAD tools.
Ability to learn and use Open Utilities or other utility‑specific design software for electrical distribution design.
Fundamental understanding of electrical power distribution concepts, including transformers, circuits, power lines, and low voltage distribution (LVD).
Ability to interpret and apply National Electric Safety Code (NESC) requirements in distribution design and material selection.
Experience creating Bills of Materials (BOM) and familiarity with material tracking systems such as SAP or similar platforms.
Strong analytical skills to perform energy and load analysis and to determine appropriate equipment and conductor sizing.
Capability to perform structural and loading assessments for distribution poles using tools like PoleForeman, PLA, or other pole loading analysis software, or a strong willingness to learn these tools.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, maps, and GIS or spatial information related to utility infrastructure.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for frequent interaction with clients and internal teams.
Ability to perform effectively in a fast‑paced environment and to manage multiple work orders or projects simultaneously.
Capacity to think both quickly and strategically when addressing design challenges and client needs.
Relevant experience working directly with an electric utility, or coursework directly related to the utility industry or power grid.
Relevant experience with an electric utility consulting firm that specializes in distribution design or engineering work.
Strong customer and client service orientation, with the ability to collaborate closely with utility representatives.
Work Environment The work environment combines remote, office, and field‑based activities, with flexibility to adapt to what works best for each individual. You will work a home 2 days a week and in the office which is located in Grand Rapids, MI 3 days a week.
Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.
Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $22.00 – $25.00 per hour.
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 Grand Rapids, MI.
Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 5, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
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
Equal Opportunity Employer Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr