Electric Distribution Designer Senior - Austin Energy

City of Austin•Austin, TX

14d•Hybrid

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Electric Distribution Designer Senior performs advanced design of residential, commercial, industrial, illumination, overhead, and underground electric distribution facilities. The position delivers projects while providing customer service, coordinating with internal teams to meet applicable codes and criteria, and analyzing power distribution systems to assess the capacity needs of existing and future assets. It also collaborates with colleagues to provide and receive technical guidance on distribution projects. The role assesses loads and environmental constraints; identifies project requirements such as permits, easements, aesthetics, and fees; prepares cost estimates and material plans; and tracks projects from inception through completion. It performs complex power-system calculations, interprets survey, plan, deed, and engineered construction information, and regularly interfaces with contractors, engineers, developers, customers, and consultants. The designer develops master system plans for growth in large developments and may lead projects coordinating utility sections during design and construction. The position may provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus seven years of relevant work experience, including two years in an electric utility distribution power designer capacity. Related-field education from an accredited college or university may substitute for up to four years of experience.
Knowledge of National Electrical Code and National Electric Safety Code requirements relevant to distribution design.
Knowledge of high-school-level algebra, geometry, trigonometry, physics, and related subjects relevant to electric utility distribution design.
Knowledge of distribution design and construction practices, including Austin Energy 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 and analyze power distribution systems and components.
Ability to travel to multiple sites as part of regular job duties.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in advanced graphic-design 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 orientation and strong analytical problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in project management.
Excellent communication skills for interfacing with customers.
Experience coordinating with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

Assess load requirements and environmental constraints, and identify project requirements such as permits, easements, aesthetics, and fees.
Prepare cost estimates, plan material needs, and follow distribution projects from inception to completion.
Perform complex power-system calculations, including voltage-drop analysis and equipment sizing.
Interpret survey data, plans, deed information, and engineered construction drawings.
Interface regularly with contractors, engineers, developers, customers, and consultants.
Develop master system plans for future growth in large developments.
Serve as project leader and coordinate utility sections in the design and construction of large developments.
Provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others as applicable.
Coordinate with internal teams to ensure compliance with applicable codes and criteria and collaborate with colleagues on technical guidance.