Distribution Designer

Ward Electric Company Full Time Longmont, CO Posted 2 days ago Ward Electric Company is seeking a Distribution Designer to support electric distribution projects with United Power. This position, which will work out of our Longmont, Colorado, headquarters, may be filled at the Designer I / II or Designer III / IV level, depending on experience, field capability, and technical qualifications. This role supports the design of overhead and underground electric distribution facilities and may include field data collection, site validation, field staking, design development, project documentation, and construction-ready package preparation. The ideal candidate understands the importance of field verification, practical constructability, and clear communication, and is ready to contribute in both the field and office. Ward Electric operates with a field-first philosophy. Our designers are expected to understand how work is built in the field, coordinate with construction and ROW, and help produce practical, accurate, construction-ready packages. Job Responsibilities Support or independently perform the design of overhead and underground electric distribution facilities for new construction, rebuilds, relocations, conversions, and system improvement work. Perform field visits to collect site data, verify existing conditions, take measurements, capture photos, and document assets. Assist with or independently perform field staking and identify constructability concerns before construction begins. Prepare or support construction-ready design packages, including staking sheets, sketches, notes, bills of material, and supporting documentation. Support project file organization, design revisions, redlines, as-builts, and closeout documentation. Coordinate with project leadership, crews, customers, municipalities, and internal stakeholders to gather information and keep assigned work moving. Apply client standards, utility workflows, QA/QC procedures, and documentation expectations. Maintain accurate notes, design updates, and project records in the required systems and folders. Communicate design questions, field issues, and schedule impacts clearly and promptly. For senior-level candidates, help mentor junior designers and support quality-focused review across the team. Qualifications Experience in electric distribution design, utility GIS, utility construction, staking support, or a related field Ability and willingness to work in both the field and office Understanding of overhead and underground distribution systems appropriate to experience level Strong communication, organization, and time management skills Ability to learn and apply utility standards, construction practices, and project documentation requirements Valid driver’s license and ability to travel for field work Preferred Qualifications Associate degree, technical degree, or equivalent experience in utility design, GIS, construction, engineering technology, or similar field Working knowledge of Futura / FuturaStake, ArcGIS, Trimble, or similar utility design and field tools Experience with field staking, utility construction support, GIS mapping, GPS data collection, or work order documentation Familiarity with bills of material, construction packages, design revisions, redline tracking, and closeout documentation Basic familiarity with NESC, utility standards, permitting, easements, ROW coordination, and safe work practices Experience coordinating with customers, municipalities, contractors, or utility crews PLS-CADD experience preferred Leveling Guidance Candidates may be placed into the appropriate level based on experience and demonstrated capability: Designer I / II Generally 0–3 years of relevant experience Developing in field staking, design support, and packet preparation Works with guidance from senior staff while building toward independent design responsibility Designer III / IV Generally 4–5+ years of relevant experience Field-capable and able to independently manage design work from field review through construction-ready release Able to own project packets, apply field judgment, and support junior designers through coaching and review Pay Range Designer I / II: $29–$33/hour Designer III / IV: $35–$46/hour Higher compensation tier of $42–$48/hour available for candidates with advanced PLS-CADD experience, based on demonstrated technical capability and program fit. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company participation Paid time off and holidays Mileage reimbursement or company vehicle, depending on role needs Training, development, and advancement opportunities Technology and field tools to support efficient project delivery Opportunity for advancement within a growing utility design program About Ward Electric Company Ward Electric Company is a Longmont, Colo. based, full-service, electrical contractor, which has been meeting the electrical needs of customers since first opening its doors in 2005. The company specializes in all aspects of power with an emphasis on high-voltage (transmission, distribution, substations) and renewables. Its range of work also includes commercial, industrial, and residential capabilities. Ward Electric’s projects stretch across the lower 48 states. The company, which has shown tremendous growth over recent years and has earned numerous honors including being recognized as a “Best Place to Work,” also provides storm assistance when and where needed. Ward Electric is building a utility design team centered on field awareness, accountability, documentation discipline, and practical problem-solving. Our approach is built on strong communication, accurate field coordination, timely documentation, and designs that are truly ready for construction. We believe in developing people the right way through mentorship, increased responsibility, and real field experience. Ward Electric is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr