Electric Distribution Designer — Lead Projects & Design

NV5; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

NV5 is seeking an Electric Distribution Designer in San Diego to develop and prepare electric distribution designs, including overhead and underground systems, relocations, and system improvements, and to produce construction drawings and cost estimates.

You will coordinate with project teams and external stakeholders, perform engineering calculations, and ensure compliance with CPUC/NEC/OSHA standards while mentoring junior designers as needed.

Qualifications

• Certifications related to utility design (e.g., SDG&E underground/overhead or gas design certifications)
• Experience with SDG&E or similar utility standards (underground, overhead, service, and design manuals); experience level may range from early-career to advanced
• Relevant experience in electric utility distribution design (overhead and/or underground systems);
• Familiarity with utility design standards, construction practices, and regulatory requirements
• Understanding of engineering fundamentals and ability to perform design calculations
• Familiarity with GIS, SAP, SharePoint, Smartsheet, or similar tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
• Demonstrated ability to manage workload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with AutoCAD, GIS, or utility design/work management tools preferred
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to project sites as needed (typically up to 30%)
• Ability to work in field environments including construction zones, high-traffic areas, and remote locations

Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare electric distribution designs, including overhead and underground systems, relocations, and system improvements
• Produce construction drawings, work orders, bills of materials, cost estimates, and supporting design documentation
• Perform engineering calculations, system analysis, and design validation to support project requirements
• Coordinate with project teams, contractors, utility personnel, and external stakeholders to resolve design challenges and advance project milestones
• Conduct and/or support field walks to document existing conditions and inform design solutions
• Apply and adhere to client standards, codes, safety requirements, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., CPUC, NEC, OSHA)
• Review designs for accuracy, completeness, constructability, and compliance prior to submittal
• Manage and maintain organized project documentation and design records
• Support multiple concurrent projects, prioritizing tasks to meet schedule and budget requirements
• Participate in internal and external meetings, representing NV5 in a professional manner
• Utilize design tools and software to develop and manage deliverables (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS, utility work management platforms)
• Identify risks, constructability concerns, and cost impacts, and collaborate with project teams to develop solutions
• Provide input on design standards, process improvements, and best practices
• Advanced / Leadership Responsibilities (based on experience):
• Lead design efforts for complex projects or programs with minimal oversight
• Perform formal design reviews (e.g., 30/60/90%) and quality assurance/quality control evaluations
• Provide technical guidance, direction, and mentorship to other designers and team members
• Serve as a client-facing technical resource, supporting project planning and execution
• Review and approve contractor or third-party design packages
• Coordinate across multidisciplinary teams and manage stakeholder expectations

Skills

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

AutoCAD

GIS

SAP

SharePoint

Smartsheet

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

GIS

SAP

SharePoint

Smartsheet

Job description

NV5 is seeking an Electric Distribution Designer in San Diego to develop and prepare electric distribution designs, including overhead and underground systems, relocations, and system improvements, and to produce construction drawings and cost estimates.

You will coordinate with project teams and external stakeholders, perform engineering calculations, and ensure compliance with CPUC/NEC/OSHA standards while mentoring junior designers as needed.