Distribution Engineer

Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 141,400 - 178,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage

Company Sponsored Life Insurance

Short-Term Disability

Discounted Gym Membership

401(k) Retirement Plan

Professional Development Incentives

Generous PTO + Paid Holidays

Paid Parental Leave

Employee Referral Bonus

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Chicago is seeking a Distribution Engineer IV to oversee the planning and design of electrical distribution systems (4–69 kV). This senior-level role involves managing complex engineering projects, providing technical expertise and mentorship to junior engineers, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, an active PE license, and 9-12 years of related experience. The position offers competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an ABET accredited institution in electrical engineering.
• Active Professional Engineer (PE) license in the applicable state(s).
• 9–12 years of experience in distribution system engineering and design.
• High level proficiency with GIS, AutoCAD, TED, and engineering tools.
• Strong project management skills, including planning and budgeting.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of overhead and underground distribution systems.
• Manage the technical aspect of multiple complex engineering projects simultaneously.
• Conduct field assessments, audits, and verification of existing infrastructure.
• Prepare technical reports, project updates, and presentations.

Skills

GIS

AutoCAD

TED

Pole Loading Analysis

Engineering analysis tools

Project management

Technical guidance

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

MicroStation

GIS

Job description

The Distribution Engineer IV is a senior-level engineering role responsible for the planning, design, and execution of electrical distribution systems (4–69 kV), ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient power delivery. This role combines advanced technical expertise with project management responsibilities, including coordinating project schedules, budgets, resources, and stakeholder communications.

While not directly managing personnel, this role provides technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to junior engineers and collaborates with cross‑functional teams, contractors, and utility partners.

What you will do:

Engineering & Technical Oversight

• Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of overhead and underground distribution systems (4–69 kV), including preparation of field notes, drawings, specifications, calculations, and cost estimates.
• Serve as the Engineer of Record for assigned projects, exercising responsible charge over engineering work.
• Seal, sign, and stamp engineering drawings, specifications, calculations, and technical reports in accordance with state licensure laws and company procedures.
• Responsible for the Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) for the designs of their team. Ensure all stamped designs meet applicable regulatory, safety, and quality standards prior to issuance for construction.
• Review and approve final engineering deliverables, providing professional accountability for technical accuracy and compliance. Perform system studies such as load flow, fault analysis, voltage drop, and protective device coordination.
• Ensure engineering designs comply with IEEE, NEC, NESC, NERC, and local utility standards.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies, including DERs, energy storage, renewable energy, and grid modernization initiatives.
• Conduct field assessments, audits, and verification of existing infrastructure to support design accuracy and project execution.
• Review and provide technical guidance on designs prepared by junior engineers or external consultants.

Project Management Responsibilities

• Manage the technical aspect of multiple complex engineering projects with multiple disciplines simultaneously, ensuring scope, schedule, and budget objectives are met.
• Develop project plans, timelines, and resource allocation strategies in collaboration with project stakeholders.
• Coordinate with clients, contractors, utility partners, and internal teams to ensure project requirements and milestones are achieved.
• Track project progress, identify risks or issues, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Prepare technical reports, project updates, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure projects meet organizational quality standards, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an ABET accredited institution in electrical engineering
• Active Professional Engineer (PE) license in the applicable state(s), or the ability to obtain reciprocity within a defined timeframe
• 9‑12 years of experience in distribution system engineering and design, including project management experience and stamping drawings
• High level proficiency with GIS, AutoCAD, TED, Pole Loading Analysis software, and engineering analysis tools
• Experience managing multiple projects with cross‑functional teams and coordinating with clients and contractors
• Thorough understanding of professional engineering ethics, responsible charge, and licensure requirements
• Demonstrated ability to independently evaluate, approve, and stamp engineering documents for distribution projects
• Strong project management skills, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and reporting.
• Ability to manage project from inception to final completion, including financial targets and scope and schedule control.
• Strong knowledge of state and utility‑specific requirements related to sealed engineering documents and construction packages
• Advanced knowledge of power systems, distribution design, load flow, fault analysis, grounding, and protection
• Expertise in overhead and underground distribution systems (4–69 kV), equipment sizing, and layout
• Proficiency in engineering design and analysis tools such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, GIS
• Understanding of DERs, renewable integration, energy storage, and grid modernization technologies
• Strong project management skills, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and reporting
• Ability to provide technical guidance and mentorship without direct supervisory responsibilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication for reports, presentations, and stakeholder interactions
• Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and decision‑making skills for complex engineering challenges
• Knowledge of safety, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance in distribution systems
• Expert understanding of distribution equipment and materials, including poles, conductors, transformers, switches, regulators, reclosers, and protective devices

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage – Reach out to learn how your deductible could be covered 100% through Garner Health!
• Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Short‑Term Disability – We’ve got your back when life takes unexpected turns.
• Voluntary Coverages – Take control of your well‑being with added coverage options.
• Discounted Gym Membership – Stay active with wellness options that support your fitness goals.
• Competitive Base Salary – Earn what you’re worth in a performance‑driven culture.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Build your future with confidence.
• Professional Development Incentives – Get rewarded for growing your skills — including bonuses for earning your P.E. License.
• Milhouse University (Cross‑Functional Training) – Expand your expertise with internal training built to elevate your career and receive PDH credits for applicable training towards professional engineering licenses, etc.
• Employee Education & Development Program – Tuition assistance and learning opportunities to keep you moving forward.
• Generous PTO + Paid Holidays – Rest, recharge, and enjoy the moments that matter most.
• Paid Parental Leave – Bond with your new arrival — and yes, we’ll even cover a year of diapers!
• Extracurricular Sports Teams – Join our summer Volleyball and Softball squads for fun off the clock.
• Employee Recognition Program – Be celebrated for the impact you make.
• Employee Referral Bonus – Bring great people on board and get paid for it.
• Transit Benefits Program – Save on your daily commute.
• Charitable Events and Activities offered through non‑profit affiliate – Milhouse Charities.

$141,400 - $178,100 a year

The actual base pay depends upon many factors, such as education, experience, and skills. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

While we provide a range, we’d love to hear from you if you are in or outside of this range as we are always looking to cater roles to the Talent we find!

Milhouse is a pay transparency non‑discrimination organization committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We ensure that all employees are compensated fairly and without bias, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, effective January 1, 2025, we include pay scales and benefits in all job postings and ensure that all promotion opportunities are communicated to current employees within 14 days of external postings. Additionally, we participate in E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility and uphold compliance with federal requirements.