Job Description
Orbital Engineering, Inc. is currently seeking an Associate Distribution Engineer for a remote work role based in Pennsylvania. The Utility Services Department partners with Utility and Communication Companies on Joint Use Pole Attachment Programs, Distribution Engineering Design Projects, and Distribution System Improvement Charge programs.
This position will directly support projects within the pole attachment application process and the utility distribution design process.
Job Title
Associate Distribution Engineer
Location
Pennsylvania (remote work, but candidate must reside within Pennsylvania for training and field work).
FLSA Classification
Exempt
Essential Functions
- Prepare and develop distribution voltage construction packages for overhead and underground projects.
- Assist with distribution line design 2.4kV – 34kV.
- Collaborate with designers and engineers to prepare new drawings, modify existing drawings, or create as‑built documents.
- Assist in proposal preparation, engineering/project cost estimates, and execution schedules.
- Provide technical support for customers and support regional business development initiatives.
- Conduct quality reviews of work prepared by others and adhere to the QA/QC process.
- Prepare calculations and assist with equipment specifications.
- Evaluate loading of equipment such as transformers and structural loading of poles to ensure cost‑effective, safe and reliable design.
- Visually identify, inspect, and record equipment and construction situations in the field, including rights‑of‑way.
- Apply NESC, client standards, federal, state or local municipal guidelines, and other applicable guidelines for engineering designs (pole replacements, communication space re‑arrangements, joint‑use or make‑ready construction).
- Analyze field‑collected data (including imagery) and update applicable software packages.
- Utilize client proprietary software packages or equipment to complete engineering design workflow, including new attachment permitting process.
- Accountable for assigned work, completing tasks on schedule and within budget while communicating status with management.
- Communicate with clients on engineering design to determine cost‑effective solutions.
- Provide timely documentation and support to accounting functions to ensure projects are on budget.
- Transcribe notes, use measuring devices to record data in an organized manner.
- Work under all weather conditions in residential, commercial, and industrial areas as needed.
- Fieldwork may be required throughout the design process; remote office is primary.
- Travel overnight or for extended periods as required by project assignment.
- Attend client site meetings and interact with the general public, including landowners and operators.
Other Duties
Other duties may change at any time with or without notice.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree from a four‑year ABET‑accredited college or university with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering; preferably Electrical.
- Experience or basic knowledge of the electric utility industry, including primary and secondary distribution systems and utility standards.
- Understanding of basic engineering theories and principles.
- Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization, and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to prioritize work on multiple projects and effectively communicate project status.
- Computer proficiency including general Microsoft Office; ability to learn distribution design, GIS, and business enterprise software.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Reasoning skills and ability to solve practical problems.
- Ability to read and understand engineering drawings/schematics.
- Basic knowledge of electrical distribution assets and/or communication equipment construction preferred.
- Experience in construction modeling software (AutoCAD) is beneficial.
- Familiarity with design and checking practices for engineering drawings and deliverables.
- Familiarity with safe work practices and PPE applications.
- Dependable transportation and a valid driver’s license with insurance.
- Must pass a fit‑for‑duty test.
- Ability to work from home and an office setting, as required, and conduct field duties such as equipment walk‑downs and data acquisition.
- Must pass a post‑offer drug & alcohol test in compliance with federal regulations; subject to random testing during employment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Successful completion of the Engineer in Training (EIT) or Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam from a state licensing board.
Location Note
This is a remote position. Compensation is based on market data and internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate’s location.
Salary Range
$62,000 – $75,000 annually (based on experience, qualifications, and location).
Benefits
A comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage; a 401(k) retirement savings plan; supplemental insurance options; company‑paid life and AD&D insurance; company‑paid short‑term disability coverage; and generous paid time off.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.