Electric Distribution Designer Senior

City of Austin•Austin, TX

1d•$41 - $52•Hybrid

About The Position

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee. This position, under general supervision, is responsible for the advanced design of both commercial and industrial overhead and underground electric distribution facilities. The primary duties include providing excellent customer service while delivering projects, coordinating with internal teams to ensure compliance with local codes and criteria, such as those outlined in the City of Austin’s Design Criteria Manual, and analyzing power distribution systems to assess the capacity of existing and future assets needed for electric service. Additionally, the role involves collaborating with the team to receive and provide technical guidance on distribution projects. Under general supervision, this position is responsible for advanced design of residential, commercial, industrial, and illumination overhead and underground electric distribution facilities.

Requirements

Knowledge of the National Electrical Code and the National Electric Safety Code requirements relevant to distribution design issues/distribution design techniques.
Knowledge of high school-level math (algebra, geometry, and trigonometry), physics, etc. relevant to electric utility distribution design.
Knowledge of distribution design and construction practices, including Austin Energy (AE) Distribution Designer Guidelines and Distribution Construction Standards.
Knowledge of utility service guidelines and policies.
Knowledge of power system components, functions, ratings, and limitations.
Knowledge of roadway, security, and other lighting design practices.
Ability to use AutoCAD or equivalent computer-assisted tools.
Ability to use word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Ability to perform advanced power system calculations.
Ability to analyze power distribution systems and components.
Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus seven (7) years of relevant work experience, including two (2) years of experience in an electric utility distribution power designer capacity.
Education from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for experience up to four (4) years for the minimum qualifications.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in advanced AutoCAD features for electric utility design
experience with GIS software for mapping distribution systems.
In-depth knowledge of electric distribution systems and design of new electric service.
Detail-oriented with strong analytical problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in project management.
Excellent communication for interfacing with customers.
Experience in coordinating with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

Assesses load requirements, evaluates environmental constraints, and identifies project requirements (permits, easements, aesthetics, fees, etc.)
Performs cost estimates, plans material needs, and follows up on progress of distribution projects from inception to completion.
Performs complex power system calculations: voltage drop, equipment sizing, etc.
Interprets survey data, plan, and deed information.
Interprets engineered construction drawings.
Interfaces regularly with contractors, engineers, developers, customers, and consultants.
Develops master system plans for future growth in large developments.
Serves as project leader and coordinates the efforts of various utility sections in the design and construction of large developments.
May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others.