Distribution Engineer

Electric Distribution PlannerPrimary Talent Partners has a new contract opening for an Electric Distribution Planner with our large power and utilities client in Durham, NC. This is a 24-month contract with a potential for extension.Pay: $38.00 - $43.00/hr; W2 contract, no PTO, no Benefits. ACA-compliant supplemental package available for enrollment. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must be able to sit on Primary Talent Partners W2 without sponsorship.The Engineering Technologist III is a senior-level technical resource responsible for independently developing and designing complex electric distribution work orders. This role serves as a primary point of contact for customers, construction personnel, and internal stakeholders while managing distribution projects from initial customer engagement through construction completion. Candidates must possess direct utility distribution design experience and demonstrate the ability to manage complex customer and asset-driven projects with minimal supervision.Key Responsibilities:Independently review and manage assigned work orders through the Maximo Work Management System.Serve as the primary customer contact, responding to inquiries and providing project updates via phone, email, text, and in-person meetings.Meet with residential and commercial customers to gather field information and develop design solutions for new electric service installations.Design and develop complex electric distribution work orders, including primary and secondary distribution facilities.Prepare detailed engineering designs and construction packages utilizing DesignLite and other company systems.Develop cost estimates and project scopes for customer-driven work where applicable.Lead technical design efforts for customer service projects, line relocations, pole replacements, asset replacement programs, and other complex distribution initiatives.Perform field assessments and determine engineering solutions for distribution system improvements.Coordinate with engineering, operations, construction, permitting, and customer stakeholders throughout project execution.Resolve construction issues and design challenges through project completion and meter installation.Ensure compliance with company standards, safety requirements, construction practices, and regulatory requirements.Review technical designs and project documentation for quality and accuracy.Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced technologists.Minimum Qualifications:Associate degree in Engineering Technology or a related technical field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.Significant experience designing work orders for an electric utility.Demonstrated experience supporting electric distribution projects beyond basic lighting work.Experience with customer-facing utility projects, asset replacement programs, line relocations, pole replacement projects, and new service installations.Strong knowledge of electric distribution design, construction practices, utility standards, and customer service processes.Experience utilizing utility work management and design systems.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.Preferred Qualifications:Extensive electric utility distribution design experience.Experience with Maximo, DesignLite, GIS, CAD, or similar utility engineering software.Experience managing multiple complex work orders simultaneously.Advanced knowledge of electric distribution construction practices and standards.Previous mentoring or technical leadership experience.Additional Information:Standard schedule is 40 hours per week.During major storm restoration events, candidates may have the opportunity to serve in damage assessment or scout roles and support restoration activities, including overtime opportunities.No hands-on electrical construction work is required.Required PPE includes hard hat, EH-rated safety footwear, high-visibility vest, and work gloves as appropriate for field activities.Key Differentiator Between Levels:Engineering Technologist II:Developing technologist who performs routine distribution design activities with guidance from senior staff.Supports customer interactions, field evaluations, and design development while building technical expertise.Engineering Technologist III:Experienced utility designer expected to independently manage customer-facing work orders from initial site visit through project completion.Performs complex distribution design work, develops engineering solutions with minimal supervision, and serves as a technical resource for less experienced team members.Primary Talent Partners is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.