Distribution Designer

Distribution Designer

The Distribution Designer supports the successful delivery of departmental projects by performing technical drafting, design, and field investigation work. This role contributes to efficient plan review and permitting processes while providing knowledgeable guidance to developers, internal teams, and the public. Through accurate technical support and coordination, the position helps ensure high-quality engineering outcomes that advance departmental goals.

Essential Functions:

• Support the design and drafting of overhead and underground electrical distribution systems using computer-aided drafting and design (CADD), ensuring compliance with codes and engineering standards.
• Assist in planning and executing new projects, including field inspections and coordination with internal and external stakeholders.
• Perform line staking, determine pole and line locations, and document field notes for electric utility infrastructure.
• Maintain and update the computerized distribution mapping system to reflect current system configurations.
• Conduct system condition assessments and underground utility locates in coordination with Texas 811.
• Inspect roadway lighting installations and other electrical infrastructure to ensure quality and safety compliance.
• Respond to inquiries from contractors, vendors, and customers, providing technical support and service planning assistance.
• Estimate project costs and timelines; assist in developing and reviewing construction specifications.
• Track project progress, prepare reports, and manage data entry across various systems and databases.
• Provide field support during major events by assessing system issues and assisting with restoration efforts.
• Attend training, meetings, and professional development activities to maintain technical knowledge.
• Travel to and from project sites and facilities as needed to support operational and project-related tasks.

Minimum Requirements & Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's degree in a related field. A bachelor's degree in a related field may substitute for one (2) years of related experience.
• One (1) year of technical engineering experience. Additional two (2) years of related experience over the minimum requirement may substitute for each year of college.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.

Competencies and Environment:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of SMTXU specifications, construction practices, materials, warehousing methods, and applicable codes and regulations (National Electric Code (NEC), National Electric Safety Code (NESC), EPA, OSHA).
• Knowledge of municipal codes, construction plans, specifications, work orders, and engineering documentation.
• Knowledge of customer service principles and computer systems for data entry, work order management, and information processing.
• Skilled in AutoCAD drafting, project tracking software, and creating work and purchase orders.
• Skilled in time management, prioritization, and resolving problems and conflicts.
• Skilled in verbal and written communication, with the ability to maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and communicate clearly with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to multi-task, adapt to changing priorities, and work independently in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to work extended hours and participate in an on-call rotation as needed.

Physical Demands

This position requires the ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally. Subject to sitting frequently; handling, fine dexterity, vision, hearing and talking constantly; standing, walking and foot controls occasionally; lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling, reaching, kneeling, crouching, crawling, bending, twisting, climbing and balancing.

Work Environment

Working conditions involves exposure to variable and/or extreme weather conditions, vehicle traffic, heavy equipment, general construction hazards, and high voltage electrical currents when conducting field work.