Designer

American Electric Power; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 46,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power in Roanoke, VA seeks a Designer Associate to prepare, develop, and coordinate maps and engineering drawings. You will assist engineers without direct supervision, document work activities, and help in the training of staff.

The role involves design basis development, cost estimating, and QA/QC of drawings for construction. The position requires an Associate degree in CAD/engineering technology or equivalent experience, plus 4 years of relevant drafting work if no degree.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in AAS CAD or related engineering technology or equivalent experience.
• Four years of experience in electric utility or related drafting work if no AAS.
• Proficiency with conventional drafting symbols and color recognition.

Responsibilities

• Proficiency in CAD software use for drawings and studies.
• Prepare and analyze calculations and conduct design studies.
• Carry projects to completion with final drawings for construction.
• Check drawings and shop details; coordinate with design groups.
• Perform design verification and review work.
• Lead and coordinate work of others when required.
• Prepare material and cost estimates as needed.
• Adhere to applicable design standards and procedures.
• Write notes documenting progression and design steps.
• Train other employees in related tasks as needed.
• Submit progress reports on job status.
• Lead training for AEP or third-party staff in basics of the position.

Skills

CAD software

Microsoft Office

Calculations

Design coordination

Cost estimation

Education

AAS CAD or engineering technology (or equivalent)

Job description

Job Posting End Date

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

08-29-2026

Job Summary

In this role you'll be responsible for the preparation, development and coordination of maps, sketches, diagrams, schematics and other engineering related drawings. Assist responsible engineer without direct supervision in the development documentation to support project decision making. Documentation of work activities to be performed include: preparation of study layouts, preparation of detailed design drawings, design basis development, cost estimating, peer review of all design deliverables, drawings QA/QC, peer review, as well as performing other design and engineering work as defined or directed. Furnish work direction and assist in training of employees in related work at an equal or lower level as directed.

Job Description

What You'll Do:

• Proficiency in the use of computer aided design software.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office software.
• Prepare and analyze calculations and conduct design and engineering studies as required.
• Carry to completion, drawings and related information representing final studies and designs necessary for construction.
• Check manufacturers' drawings and shop details and recommend changes to same. Check design drawings of other sections and exchange information with other design groups.
• Check drawings and perform design verification as assigned.
• Coordinate and review the work of others, when required.
• Prepare material and cost estimates as required.
• Perform work according to applicable design standards, criteria and procedures.
• Write notes relative to progressive steps to be taken at various stages of construction.
• Furnish work direction and assist in training of other employees in related work as required.
• Submit progress reports on status of job(s).
• Lead training for AEP or third-party employees in basic skills of the position.
• Promote and support the Company's Accident Prevention and Safety and Health programs.
• Demonstrate ethical behavior as outlined in the AEP corporate policies.
• Support the AEP Corporate Compliance policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• This position is posted in a range. The minimum qualifications below are Designer Associate. The final grade and compensation offered will be determined based on the successful candidate's education, experience, and relevant skillset.

What We're Looking For:

Designer, pay based upon level and experience ($46,049-$93,189)

Education and Experience:

• Associate degree in applied science (AAS) drafting and computer aided design (CAD) or in civil, electrical or mechanical engineering technology, or relevant equivalent experience and/or education.

Work Experience requirement listed below:

• Equivalent experience without AAS degree - high school graduate and four (4) years of experience in electric utility and/or related industrial drafting and/or computer aided drafting work.

Other Requirements:

• Must be proficient in working with conventional drafting symbols and drafting methods and have the ability to distinguish colors.
• Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
• May require shift work or overtime. Occasional overnight travel to and work within a substation or power plant environment in obedience to all safety regulations and use of personal protection equipment.

Physical demand level is Sedentary

At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

#AEPCareers

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-004

Compensation Range:

$22.14 - $44.80

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.