Distribution Engineer III

Omaha Public Power District; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 89,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

Omaha Public Power District in Omaha, Nebraska is seeking a Distribution Engineer III to lead technically complex distribution projects, guide design and analysis, and improve system reliability across our electric grid.

You will own major assignments, mentor junior engineers and designers, and shape policy as technologies and industry trends evolve, ensuring compliance with applicable codes and standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering required.
• Four years of engineering experience; master's may count up to two years.
• Knowledge of applicable regulations, codes, and standards.
• Strong communication skills (oral and written).
• Ability to research issues and present recommendations.
• Valid driver's license.
• Experience in utility distribution design or construction preferred.
• Understanding of NESC, OSHA, ASCE standards.
• Knowledge of OPPD's T&D, Substation, and Generation systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering, design, analysis, cost estimating, and permitting for complex distribution projects
• Contribute to cross-functional teams on large-scale initiatives
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, regulations, and internal requirements
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to entry-level engineers and designers
• Support continuous improvement by identifying emerging trends and recommending best practices
• Apply engineering judgment to ensure safe, reliable, and economical distribution system performance

Skills

Communication

Analytical thinking

Project management

Research abilities

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering

Master's degree in Engineering or Business (preferred)

EIT/FE or PE license (preferred)

Tools

Asset Suite

Cognos

AutoDesk

Bentley MicroStation

SharePoint

PLSCADD

Job description

Distribution Engineer III

Position Overview

OPPD is dedicated to delivering reliable, safe, and efficient power through a robust distribution system designed to support customer and community needs. As a Distribution Engineer III, you will provide advanced engineering expertise, leading technically complex projects and contributing to system reliability improvements. You will take ownership of major assignments, provide technical guidance to junior team members, and help shape policy and direction in response to emerging technologies and industry trends.

The Impact You'll Have

• Lead engineering, design, analysis, cost estimating, and permitting for complex distribution projects
• Contribute to cross-functional teams on large-scale or technically challenging initiatives
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, regulations, and internal requirements
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to entry-level engineers and designers
• Support continuous improvement by identifying emerging trends and recommending best practices
• Apply engineering judgment to ensure safe, reliable, and economical distribution system performance

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering
• Four years of engineering experience (Master's degree may count for up to two years)
• Detailed knowledge of engineering regulations, codes, and standards applicable to the discipline
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to research issues, evaluate alternatives, and present recommendations
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to manage complex projects and guide technical decisions
• Preferred Experiences:
• EIT/FE or PE license
• Experience with Asset Suite, Cognos, AutoDesk, Bentley MicroStation, SharePoint, PLS¿CADD
• Master's degree in Engineering or Business
• Experience in utility distribution design or construction
• Understanding of NESC, OSHA, ASCE standards
• Knowledge of OPPD's T&D, Substation, and Generation systems

Salary/Wage Info

• Grade: S5
• Minimum: $98,877
• Midpoint: $123,596

Type of Work

Non-Shift

Time Demands

• Non-Essential Position: This position may be required to report to work beyond the normal shift to support the restoration of normal business operations.
• This position must be available for overtime work and callouts as required to ensure continuance of efficient operation.

Work Location

• Office: Work will be performed in a modern office environment amid normal conditions of dust, odors, fumes, and noises.
• Field: Work will be performed outside in a wide variety of weather conditions (snow, rain, heat, cold, wind, etc.), terrain, and other natural environmental hazards as well as pollen and other airborne allergens.
• Generation Plant: Work will be performed inside with exposure to industrial building conditions and will be exposed to extreme temperatures, odors, dust, gases, poor ventilation and exposure to sounds. Noise levels may require shouting to be heard.

Work Environment

• Work will be performed in high traffic environments.
• Will work around energies high voltage electrical equipment.
• Will work in construction areas that present many physical hazards.
• Will work around asbestos and lead.

Physical Demands

• Minimal physical effort typically found in clerical work. Primarily sedentary, may occasionally lift and carry light objects. Walking and/or standing as needed and minimal.
• Light to moderate physical effort that includes frequent standing or walking or maintaining arms and hands in the same position for repetitive tasks. Frequently works with light objects and light hand tools.

The OPPD Difference

Our Culture & Mission

At Omaha Public Power District, everything starts with people. Our teams, our communities, and the customer owners who count on us. As the 12th largest public power utility in the U.S., we serve more than 900,000 people across 13 counties, and we take that responsibility seriously.

We lead with integrity, support one another, and do what is right because how we serve matters just as much as what we deliver. Our goal is simple: provide affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible energy today and for generations to come.

We create power with purpose. Your work here has real impact on families, the environment, and on the future of energy. And we believe great ideas can come from anywhere.

If you want to be part of a team that takes care of the community and the people who serve it, you are in the right place. We back up our mission by taking care of our employees, too, which is why our benefits are among the most comprehensive and competitive in the region.

EOE: Protected Veterans/Disability