Distribution Engineering Supervisor

About the role

The Engineering Supervisor, Power Distribution supervises a staff of technical designers and engineers engaged in the development of utility engineering designs, cost estimates, and technical deliverables for distribution customers. This role manages and evaluates the performance of assigned technical staff, proactively addresses work quality issues, and ensures full compliance with client procedures, design standards, state and federal regulatory requirements, and applicable safety codes. It oversees project planning, execution, and delivery across multiple concurrent assignments—coordinating resources, reviewing and approving engineering work products, and serving as the primary point of contact for project stakeholders. The Engineering Supervisor fosters a collaborative, high-performing team environment through active mentoring, clear performance expectations, and a commitment to continuous improvement. At times, this role collaborates closely with engineers performing substation, transmission, renewable energy, power storage, and communications design, and performs the duties of the Distribution Engineering Manager in the manager’s absence.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage engineering teams, providing guidance and support to technical staff in the preparation of utility engineering designs, cost estimates, and customer billing.
• Manage schedules and assign technical staff to projects and daily work activities.
• Foster a collaborative and productive work environment, promoting teamwork, communication, and continuous learning through mentoring and instruction in technical engineering principles and governing electrical and safety codes.
• Instruct technical staff in the use of computer systems and software, tools and equipment, and company-owned vehicles as applicable.
• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects, ensuring they meet quality, budget, and timeline requirements.
• Coordinate resources and activities across multiple projects to achieve organizational objectives.
• Review and approve engineering designs, specifications, and documentation created by technical staff.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide constructive, timely feedback to technical staff.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for project stakeholders, communicating project status, risks, and technical insights effectively and professionally.
• Maintain strong relationships with existing clients and seek out opportunities with prospective clients.
• Report monthly KPIs to appropriate stakeholders with accuracy and confidence.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping of project designs, change orders, and technical staff development activities.
• Drive initiatives for process improvement and efficiency within the engineering team.
• Collaborate with the Manager, Distribution Engineering to develop, evaluate, and implement policies and procedures that reflect best engineering practices.
• Collaborate with other departments and divisions on company-wide initiatives.
• Perform the responsibilities of the Distribution Engineering Manager in the manager’s absence.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Civil/Structural, Mechanical, or Multi-Disciplinary Engineering from an ABET-accredited program, plus 8 years of relevant experience as a Power Distribution Line Engineer in a consulting or utility environment or
• Master’s degree in Electrical, Civil/Structural, Mechanical, or Multi-Disciplinary Engineering from an ABET-accredited program, plus 6 years of relevant experience as a Power Distribution Line Engineer in a consulting or utility environment.
• Advanced knowledge of overhead and underground distribution facilities and their integration into daily project activities.
• Demonstrated experience with NESC, ASCE, and IEEE standards.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively supervise a team of engineers and engineering technicians while maintaining high standards of quality, consistency, accuracy, and reliability.
• Professional demeanor with an open-minded, collaborative approach to project planning and staff management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project.

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, with the ability to obtain Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
• Proficiency in one or more industry-standard distribution design tools, including AutoCAD, PLS-CADD, PoleForeman, PolyWater Pull-Planner, O-Calc, SPIDAcalc, GIS, or IKE.

Competencies

• Quality Assurance & Control: Takes ownership of deliverable accuracy and completeness through disciplined review processes and adherence to Westwood’s QA/QC standards.
• Project Planning & Scheduling: Develops realistic project plans, manages resources, and monitors progress to deliver projects on time and within scope.
• Client Relationship Management: Builds trusted, long-term client relationships by serving as a reliable advisor who anticipates needs and exceeds expectations.
• Team Leadership & Motivation: Leads project and functional teams with clarity, accountability, and a commitment to creating environments where people thrive.
• Mentoring & Talent Development: Invests in colleagues’ growth through coaching, feedback, stretch assignments, and active sponsorship of emerging professionals.
• Employee Engagement & Well-Being: Fosters a positive, supportive work environment where people feel motivated, valued, and equipped to do their best work.
• Performance Management: Sets clear goals, conducts meaningful reviews, and addresses performance issues promptly to drive individual and team excellence.
• Communication & Presentation: Communicates clearly in written, verbal, and visual formats — translating technical content effectively for any audience.
• Problem Solving & Decision Making: Approaches complex problems analytically, balances competing priorities, and makes sound, timely decisions under uncertainty.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Works generously and constructively with colleagues across disciplines, offices, and organizations.