Project Designer in Training

About the role

Alterman is seeking Project Designers in Training to join our team in San Antonio, TX. The Project Designer in Training (PDIT) is an entry-level, developmental role designed to build the technical foundation required to become a Project Designer (PD). This position provides structured training in electrical systems, design standards, workflows, and project coordination while supporting live construction projects under supervision.

Responsibilities

The PDIT follows a defined Development Plan that combines classroom learning, including required evening coursework through approved training programs, SOP-guided work methods, and hands-on project application. The role is structured as the foundational level of the Project Designer career path and is intended to develop individuals into proficient PD1-level contributors.

• Foundational Development & Technical Training: Completes required training in electrical systems fundamentals, blueprint reading, and National Electrical Code (NEC) coursework.
• Learns and applies Alterman Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to design workflows, documentation standards, and deliverables.
• Develops proficiency in required software and tools, including Microsoft 365, Bluebeam, Navisworks, Smartsheets, PACK tracking systems, and other design platforms.
• Builds foundational knowledge of electrical distribution systems, branch power, lighting systems, special systems, and construction documentation.
• Progresses through the structured PDIT Training Development Plan in alignment with defined timelines and competency milestones.
• Demonstrates competency through supervised application of learned skills and incorporates feedback to improve performance.
• Adapts to evolving construction tools, design standards, codes, and internal workflows.

Additionally, the PDIT will assist with project support and design execution under supervision, including:

• Assisting with specification reviews and basic submittal reviews to support installation planning.
• Supporting branch power layouts, lighting layouts, and in-wall rough-in layouts in accordance with established SOPs.
• Building Bills of Material (BOMs) and preparing material requisitions under supervision.
• Coordinating with BIM Technicians to ensure design elements are accurately entered into project models.
• Supporting coordination efforts with Project Managers, Purchasing, Manufacturing, Logistics, and onsite Foremen.
• Drafting Requests for Information (RFIs) under supervisor guidance.
• Assisting in MEP coordination activities with other trades.
• Inputting and tracking tasks within internal scheduling and workflow systems.

Qualifications

A high school diploma or equivalent is required; a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Construction Science, Electrical Engineering Technology, or a related field is preferred. Completion of internship experience within Project Design is preferred but not required.

Skills

• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Able to learn technical systems and apply structured processes.
• Able to enroll in and successfully complete required coursework through the local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) or other approved electrical training program.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to follow established workflows.
• Willing to receive coaching and apply feedback.
• Comfortable working in a structured development program with defined milestones and accountability.

Work Environment

The work environment will be an office setting with some travel to jobsites, as well as outdoor work environments with exposure to dust, heat, and cold.

Physical Demands

The role requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer, as well as the ability to lift up to 15 pounds at times.