Distribution Engineer I

Job Title: 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
Job Description
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 (1hr radius from home) to collected 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 have certain trees cut down where the new lines will run. The individual will use Poleforman 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. There will be frequent communication via e-mail, phone, in person and Teams with the client.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Civil Engineering) 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.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

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

Work Environment
The typical workload includes 10%-20% field inspections, 60%-80% engineering and development of design packages, and 10% administrative tasks and customer follow-up.
Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire that allows you to work out of your home remotely about 80% of the time and in the Big Rapids, MI territory the remaining 20% of the time.

Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Big Rapids, MI.

Pay And Benefits
The pay range for this position is $ $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. 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 Big Rapids,MI. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Dec 30, 2025.

About Actalent
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 for other accommodation options.