Electrical Engineer - Distribution Design
Hanson Professional Services Inc. · Raleigh, NC · 3 mo ago
Engineering$147k–$175k/yrFull-time
About the role
Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking an experienced Electrical Engineer specializing in Distribution System Design to support electric utility and power delivery projects. This senior-level role is ideal for a Professional Engineer with strong experience in utility distribution systems, including overhead and underground distribution, system upgrades, reliability improvements, and customer-driven projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design of overhead and underground electrical distribution systems, typically ranging from 4 kV to 35 kV.
- Develop design packages for: New distribution lines and system expansions, System hardening and resiliency upgrades, Reconductoring and voltage conversion projects, Service extensions and customer interconnections.
- Prepare construction drawings, material lists, staking sheets, and technical specifications.
- Perform system calculations including: Voltage drop, Short-circuit analysis, Load analysis and feeder balancing, Utility Coordination & System Integration.
- Apply utility standards, specifications, and design criteria to distribution projects.
- Cook up designs with transmission, substation, protection, and civil teams.
- Support integration of: Distribution automation, Voltage regulation equipment, Protective devices (reclosers, sectionalizers, fuses), Ensure compatibility with existing utility systems and operational practices.
- Serve as lead engineer or subject matter expert for distribution design efforts.
- Provide technical guidance and QA/QC reviews for drawings, calculations, and design deliverables.
- Support project managers with: Scope development, Cost estimates, Schedule planning, Risk identification, Mentor junior engineers and designers.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or related discipline.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license (required).
- Minimum 8 years of experience in electric distribution engineering.
- Prior experience working with: Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs), Public utilities or cooperatives, Utility engineering consulting firms.
- Strong understanding of distribution system operations and utility standards.
- Proven ability to lead engineering tasks and collaborate across disciplines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with storm hardening, grid modernization, or resiliency programs.
- Familiarity with distribution automation and smart grid technologies.
- Experience coordinating with joint-use utilities and right-of-way stakeholders.
- Experience supporting proposals, cost estimating, and schedule development.
- Experience mentoring junior engineers or serving as a technical lead.
Soft Skills & Competencies
- Strong technical judgment and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and lead complex tasks.
- Client-focused and solutions-oriented mindset.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Performance bonuses
- 401(k) with matching contribution
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan
- Comprehensive health & well-being plans
- Financial wellness plans
- Work-life balance programs
Culture
- Monthly educational webinars
- Lunch & learn development sessions
- 24/7 access to thousands of skill-building courses
- Mentorship opportunities
- Award-winning internship program