Distribution Engineering (Entry Level)

Position Overview

We are seeking an Associate Distribution Design Engineer to support the planning, engineering, and design of electric distribution systems. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to launch a career in the utility industry. Working under the guidance of experienced technical leads, you will assist with overhead and underground distribution projects, field engineering activities, engineering calculations, and utility infrastructure improvements.

The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience supporting utility clients while contributing to projects that improve power system reliability, safety, and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop engineering and construction work packages for overhead and underground electric distribution systems operating from 4kV to 138kV.

• Support distribution projects related to overloaded transformers, inspection and maintenance programs, joint-use attachments, and inspection-driven system improvements.

• Conduct site visits and field inspections to collect project data and evaluate existing utility infrastructure.

• Perform engineering calculations including:

• Pole loading and structural analysis

• Guying calculations

• Conductor sag and tension calculations

• Voltage drop and flicker analysis

• Identify utility conflicts and support the development of engineering solutions.

• Prepare permitting documentation and coordinate with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs).

• Provide engineering support during construction and assist with post-construction reviews.

• Participate in outage investigations and root cause analysis efforts to support system reliability improvements.

• Ensure compliance with client safety standards, engineering requirements, and quality expectations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor"s Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Civil, Mechanical, or related discipline).
• 0-1 years of professional engineering experience.
• Strong interest in utility engineering and electric distribution design.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Ability to work both in an office environment and in the field as project needs require.

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of electric utility systems and distribution design principles.
• Coursework or internship experience related to utility engineering, electrical engineering, or power systems.
• Familiarity with engineering calculations, structural analysis, and utility design standards.
• Experience interpreting engineering drawings, maps, and construction documents.

What You"ll Gain

• Mentorship from experienced utility engineering professionals.
• Exposure to overhead and underground distribution design projects.
• Experience performing real-world engineering calculations and field assessments.
• Opportunity to develop expertise in electric utility infrastructure, permitting, and construction support.
• A strong foundation for career growth within the utility engineering industry.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Houston, TX.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $29.81 - $29.81/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Houston,TX.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 29, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.