Entry Level Distribution Engineer
The Entry Level Distribution Engineer supports power distribution infrastructure upgrades and storm hardening projects by performing engineering calculations, design, and field inspections to enhance reliability across the Southeastern U.S. This role involves preparing construction drawings, evaluating equipment loading, ensuring compliance with utility standards, and collaborating with project teams to implement cost-effective and safe power distribution solutions. The position is contract-to-hire based onsite in Tampa, FL, offering hands-on experience in electric utility distribution engineering.
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, a company in the Energy, Oil & Gas industry.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
The Confidential Client is hiring an Entry Level Distribution Engineer to support power distribution infrastructure upgrades and storm-hardening programs. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on distribution design, field verification, and preparing construction-ready design packages.
- Conduct site visits and collect field notes (visual inspections, equipment inventory, measurements, sketches, and photos). Reconcile field data with base plans.
- Evaluate loading of equipment (transformers, poles, etc.) and confirm structural adequacy per client standards.
- Review and apply design manuals, local jurisdiction details, and utility standards.
- Determine and specify design requirements and solutions for conductor and structural clearance issues.
- Perform electric distribution designs using field notes and utility standards; prepare and draft construction drawings for approval by applicable agencies.
- Prepare project/job packages including material estimates and requisitions.
- Review proposed construction plans for impacts on existing distribution systems.
- Develop final design plan packages and ensure ISO/compliance requirements are met.
- Attend bi-weekly project team meetings and coordinate with engineers, field crews, and stakeholders.
Qualifications (Required)
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering (ABET-accredited program).
- ~1 year of engineering experience (entry-level / early-career).
- Interest in Power / Energy / Utilities and distribution systems.
- Proficiency with distribution design principles, power distribution analysis, and engineering calculations.
- Familiarity with design tools such as Bentley Open Utility Designer, AutoCAD, Pole Load, Smallworld, Maximo, or similar.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; strong interpersonal skills and initiative.
Nice to Have (Preferred)
- Hands-on distribution design or field engineering experience.
- Basic knowledge of electric utility concepts (primary/secondary distribution systems, utility standards).
- Experience with the Duke Energy system or similar utility environments.
- Experience interacting with customers, developers, or construction teams on distribution projects.
- Experience with MicroStation, BOUD, or other utility design/data systems.
- EIT or passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
- Strong customer service orientation.
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay: $27.00 per hour (range: $27.00 - $27.00/hr).
- Position type: Contract-to-hire (initial contract period with potential conversion).
- If eligible, benefits for the temporary/contract period may include medical, dental & vision; 401(k); voluntary life & AD&D; short- and long-term disability; HSA; employee assistance program; and paid time off — eligibility and plan details vary by classification and tenure.
- Individual compensation within the stated range will depend on qualifications, experience, and other job-related factors.
Location & Workplace
- Worksite: Fully onsite in Tampa, FL (this posting uses the authoritative location: Tampa, FL).
- Employment type: CONTRACTOR (Contract-to-hire).
Additional Notes & Candidate Experience
- This role involves regular field visits and outdoor work around distribution assets — candidates must be able to perform site inspections safely.
- Confidential Client is an equal opportunity employer and follows applicable state and federal hiring laws. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities; please indicate accommodation needs during the application process.
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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