Design Engineer

Brief Summary

This individual contributor role is responsible for the structural analysis and design of utility transmission and distribution structures fabricated by the Valmont Utility Division, Steel Group.

Essential Functions

• Reports to the Engineering Manager/Supervisor; no direct or indirect reports
• Analyzes and designs steel utility structures (primarily transmission and distribution) using structural design software, including Finite Element Method (IMPAX)
• Balances safety, manufacturability, and cost-efficiency in all designs
• Interprets customer specifications, market needs, and sales input to develop compliant, practical solutions
• Prepares and communicates engineering data for quotes and orders, including weight estimates and cost-related details
• Supports Drafting team to ensure design accuracy and timely order processing
• Reviews engineering and shop drawings, and evaluates as-built products for alignment with design intent
• Collaborates to manage workflow and project milestones to ensure on-time delivery
• Provides internal and external technical support, including to customers, consultants, and contractors
• Maintains effective communication through phone, email, and in-person interactions
• May provide guidance to drafters and junior design staff
• Participates in product and process improvement discussions to enhance team efficiency and morale
• Recommends and coordinates testing to confirm theoretical designs when necessary
• Ensures design compliance with Valmont, industry, and national codes and standards
• Handles both standard and complex structural modeling tasks with appropriate support
• Applies sound engineering judgment to projects with clearly defined objectives and variable challenges
• May require travel up to 10%

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Structural, or Mechanical Engineering, with 2–5+ years of structural design experience preferred
• EIT certification required; Mechanical Engineering candidates must be willing to obtain EIT certification
• Proficiency in structural engineering principles and 3D CAD (AutoCAD)
• Strong communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering
• 3–4 years of industry experience
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license
• Experience designing steel monopoles or utility structures
• Familiarity with utility design loads and industry standards
• Prior project team experience

Benefits

• Healthcare (medical, prescription drugs, dental and vision)
• 401k retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off
• Employer paid life insurance
• Employer paid short-term and long-term disability including maternity leave
• Work Life Support
• Tuition Reimbursement up to $5,250 per year
• Voluntary programs like tobacco cessation, Type 2 diabetes reversal, one-on-one health coaching, mortgage services and more