Distribution Engineering I (Houston)
The Associate Distribution Design Engineer supports the planning, engineering, and design of electrical distribution systems, focusing on overhead and underground projects from 4kV to 138kV. This entry-level role involves developing design and construction packages, performing engineering calculations, conducting field inspections, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards to enhance utility infrastructure reliability. The position offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and career growth opportunities within the utility industry, based onsite in Houston, TX.
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 is an entry-level Distribution Design role supporting planning, engineering, and design of electric distribution systems. You will work under experienced engineers and technical leads to develop design and construction packages for overhead and underground distribution projects (4 kV to 138 kV) and support reliability and maintenance programs.
- Develop engineering design and construction work packages for overhead and underground electrical distribution systems (4 kV–138 kV).
- Support programs addressing overloaded transformers, inspections, maintenance initiatives, joint-use projects, and reliability improvements.
- Conduct field visits and site inspections to collect data and assess existing infrastructure.
- Perform engineering calculations, including:
- Pole loading and structural analysis
- Guying calculations
- Conductor sag and tension calculations
- Voltage drop and flicker analysis
- Prepare permitting documentation per local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements.
- Assist with distribution system planning and design activities.
- Provide engineering support during construction and participate in post-construction reviews to verify compliance with standards.
- Conduct root-cause analysis on power outages and propose design-based mitigation measures.
- Maintain accurate project documentation, records, and reports.
- Ensure compliance with safety, quality, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications (Required)
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electrical or Civil preferred; related engineering disciplines considered).
- 0–1 years of relevant engineering experience (entry-level).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
- Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Willingness to travel to project sites as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship, co-op, or coursework exposure to utility engineering, power systems, or electrical distribution design.
- Familiarity with overhead and underground utility infrastructure.
- Knowledge of utility design standards and construction practices.
Skills & Tools
- Utilities engineering fundamentals
- Distribution system design
- Engineering calculations and technical documentation
- Field inspection and assessment
- Project coordination and problem-solving
What You’ll Gain
- Hands-on experience with utility distribution engineering projects.
- Exposure to both field and office engineering environments.
- Mentorship from experienced engineering professionals.
- Opportunities for technical growth and career advancement within the utilities/engineering sector.
Job Type & Location
- Employment type: Contract-to-hire, Full-Time
- Worksite: Fully onsite — Houston, TX (Old Sixth Ward / 77007 area)
- Application deadline (anticipated): Aug 7, 2026
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay: $29.81 per hour
- Benefits (eligibility dependent on classification and length of employment) may include:
- Medical, dental & vision
- 401(k) retirement plan (pre-tax and Roth options)
- Voluntary life and AD&D insurance
- Short- and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid time off (PTO, vacation, sick leave)
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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