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Distribution Design Engineer (Entry Level)

Confidential ClientConsulting
Entry LevelContractHybrid$81,258
Comstock, Michigan
15 Hours Ago

The Distribution Design Engineer I role involves planning, engineering, and designing electric and gas distribution systems to ensure reliable power delivery. The position requires developing design packages, performing field engineering, applying relevant codes and standards, and collaborating with project teams in a hybrid work environment. This entry-level contract role offers practical experience and growth potential within a respected power delivery organization based in Kalamazoo, MI.

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Description

About Careertakes

👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.


What You’ll Do

This entry-level Distribution Design Engineer will support planning, engineering, and designing electric and gas distribution systems that enable reliable power delivery. Working under supervision, you will contribute to less complex projects, prepare design packages, perform field engineering, and use CAD tools to produce accurate construction drawings.

  • Plan and design overhead and underground distribution systems to meet customer needs and regulatory requirements.
  • Determine need, size, location, and timing of new or upgraded distribution infrastructure while balancing cost, safety, environmental, and reliability factors.
  • Develop work packages for overhead distribution, underground residential distribution (URD), and underground cable/conduit systems.
  • Perform field engineering: gather project requirements, document site conditions, and identify conflicting utilities or other constraints.
  • Conduct standard engineering calculations for distribution systems (voltage analysis, pole loading) using established principles.
  • Produce and revise design drawings using AutoCAD, MicroStation, or comparable CAD software.
  • Apply applicable codes and standards, including National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), to ensure compliant designs.
  • Participate in post-construction reviews and maintain accurate project records and design documentation.
  • Communicate design basics and project status with peers, project teams, and construction partners.
  • Travel within assigned territory to perform fieldwork; follow safety procedures in office and field settings.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Environmental, or closely related) preferred; 0–2 years’ relevant experience. Master’s degree may be acceptable in lieu of experience.
  • Associate degree with 1–3 years relevant experience may also be considered.
  • Experience (or internship/academic exposure) with electric utilities or utility consulting is strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency with CAD tools such as AutoCAD and/or MicroStation; other design programs acceptable.
  • Basic understanding of power delivery systems and distribution design engineering concepts.
  • Ability to apply engineering principles within a defined technical domain and follow established procedures to solve routine problems.
  • Strong attention to detail for drawings, calculations, and documentation.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for field visits.
  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds and walk up to 2 miles on unpaved surfaces during field visits.
  • Comfortable working in both office (hybrid/remote) and field environments.

Work Environment & Logistics

  • Hybrid work: approximately 70% remote (work from home) and 30% field work within the assigned territory in Michigan.
  • Field assignments require appropriate PPE and outdoor attire; work may involve walking on uneven terrain and carrying equipment.
  • Opportunity for professional growth within a broad power delivery portfolio spanning generation, substations, transmission, and distribution.
  • Candidate should reside in or near the designated service territories in Michigan to support efficient field work and response times.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pay rate: $29.00 per hour (Contract).
  • Benefits for eligible temporary staff may include medical, dental & vision; critical illness/accident/hospital plans; 401(k) with pre-tax and Roth options; voluntary life & AD&D; short- and long-term disability; HSA; transportation benefits; employee assistance program; and applicable paid time off policies.
  • Actual compensation within the posted range will be determined by qualifications, experience, location, internal equity, and other job-related factors.

Job Details

  • Employment type: FULL_TIME (Contract)
  • Workplace type: Hybrid — based in Comstock, MI with field travel across assigned Michigan territory.
  • Anticipated application close date: Aug 31, 2026.
  • Industry: Engineering
  • Employer: Confidential Client (via Careertakes)

Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.

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