Distribution Engineering I (Houston)

Associate Distribution Design Engineer

Location: Houston, TX

Job Type: Full-Time

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-1 Years)

Job Overview

We are seeking an Associate Distribution Design Engineer to support the planning, engineering, and design of electrical distribution systems. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to build a career in the utilities industry. Under the guidance of experienced engineers and technical leads, you will assist in developing design and construction packages for overhead and underground electrical distribution projects while ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

The successful candidate will combine technical aptitude, attention to detail, and strong communication skills to support utility infrastructure projects that enhance reliability and service to customers.

Key Responsibilities

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

• Support utility programs related to overloaded transformers, inspections, maintenance initiatives, joint-use projects, and reliability improvements.

• Conduct field visits and site inspections to gather project data and assess existing infrastructure.

• Perform engineering calculations, including:

• Pole loading and structural analysis

• Guying calculations

• Conductor sag and tension calculations

• Voltage drop and flicker analysis

• Prepare and submit permitting documentation in accordance with local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements.

• Assist with utility infrastructure planning and distribution system design activities.

• Provide engineering support during construction and participate in post-construction reviews to verify compliance with engineering and construction standards.

• Conduct root cause analysis of power outages and develop design-based mitigation solutions.

• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

• Maintain accurate project documentation, records, and reports.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Electrical and Civil Engineering preferred; related engineering disciplines considered).
• 0-1 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Preferred

• Exposure to utility engineering, power systems, or electrical distribution design through internships, co-ops, or coursework.
• Familiarity with overhead and underground utility infrastructure.
• Knowledge of utility standards, construction practices, and engineering calculations.

Desired Skills

• Utilities Engineering
• Distribution System Design
• Electrical Engineering
• Technical Documentation
• Engineering Calculations
• Project Coordination
• Problem Solving
• Root Cause Analysis
• Field Inspection & Assessment

What You"ll Gain

• Hands-on experience with utility distribution engineering projects.
• Exposure to both field and office engineering environments.
• Mentorship from experienced engineering professionals.
• Opportunities for technical growth and career advancement within the utility industry.

If you are a motivated engineering graduate eager to launch your career in utility design and infrastructure, we encourage you to apply.

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 Aug 7, 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.