Southern Company

Distribution/Transmission Designer

Southern Company • $80K — $110K *
Newark, NJ 07104In-Person
Energy & Utilities
5 - 7 years of experience
More than 3 months ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Civil or Mechanical Engineering accepted with strong electric utility background)
  • Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in electric utility transmission and/or distribution design
  • Demonstrated experience producing detailed design packages for underground and/or overhead electric systems
  • Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and/or MicroStation (non-negotiable requirement)
  • Strong working knowledge of utility construction standards, specifications, and as-built documentation

Responsibilities

  • Develop detailed design packages for underground and overhead transmission and distribution systems
  • Prepare and interpret substation one-line diagrams, electrical schematics, and related station design drawings
  • Perform constructability reviews to ensure designs meet safety, reliability, and operational requirements
  • Produce professional-quality design drawings using AutoCAD and/or MicroStation
  • Support field verification, site walks, and existing condition assessments
  • Ensure all design work aligns with approved utility construction standards, specifications, and safety requirements

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on critical electric utility infrastructure projects
  • Collaborative environment with exposure to multidisciplinary teams
  • Potential for professional growth and advancement in electric utility design
  • Hands-on experience with latest CAD technologies and engineering practices
  • Engagement in significant capital construction and system modernization initiatives
Full Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Distribution / Transmission Designer to support the planning, design, and execution of electric utility infrastructure projects. This is a non-entry-level position requiring strong technical expertise in underground and overhead electric systems, substation one-line development, and strict adherence to utility construction standards. The ideal candidate will have an Electrical Engineering background with significant hands-on utility experience, supporting both transmission and distribution systems in a fast-paced, compliance-driven environment.

This role is critical to the successful delivery of capital construction, system upgrades, reliability initiatives, and modernization programs across the electric grid.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Civil or Mechanical Engineering accepted with strong electric utility background).
  • Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in electric utility transmission and/or distribution design (required).
  • Demonstrated experience producing detailed design packages for underground and/or overhead electric systems.
  • Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and/or MicroStation (non-negotiable requirement).
  • Strong working knowledge of utility construction standards, specifications, and as-built documentation.
  • Ability to interpret station one-lines, cable schedules, duct bank layouts, and protection/control diagrams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for coordination with engineering, construction, and field personnel.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with ESRI ArcGIS and spatial utility data (preferred, not required).
  • Familiarity with utility asset management systems and GIS-driven design environments.
  • Experience working under regulated utility environments and public utility commission standards.


Core Responsibilities

Transmission & Distribution Design
  • Develop detailed design packages for underground and overhead transmission and distribution systems, including:
    • Conduit and duct bank layouts
    • Pole line designs and structure loading
    • Cable routing plans
    • Equipment layouts and clearances
  • Prepare and interpret substation one-line diagrams, electrical schematics, and related station design drawings.
  • Perform constructability reviews to ensure designs meet safety, reliability, and operational requirements.
  • Apply applicable utility standards, NESC requirements, local codes, and engineering specifications throughout all designs.

Drafting & CAD Production
  • Produce professional-quality design drawings using AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
  • Develop plan, profile, section, and detail sheets for construction packages.
  • Revise drawings based on field feedback, redlines, and as-built conditions.
  • Maintain accurate version control and drawing documentation in accordance with project standards.

Field & Construction Support
  • Support field verification, site walks, and existing condition assessments.
  • Review contractor RFIs, submittals, and design clarifications during construction.
  • Provide ongoing engineering and design support to construction teams throughout project execution.
  • Assist with final as-built documentation and closeout packages.

Documentation & Standards Compliance
  • Ensure all design work aligns with approved utility construction standards, specifications, and safety requirements.
  • Maintain consistent documentation practices for drawings, calculations, and design assumptions.
  • Support audits, quality reviews, and regulatory compliance efforts.


Key Skills & Competencies
  • Strong technical knowledge of electric transmission and distribution systems
  • High proficiency in AutoCAD/MicroStation
  • Practical understanding of substation layout and one-line design
  • Knowledge of underground conduit systems, duct banks, cable types, and manhole/vault design
  • Ability to read and interpret utility prints, schematics, and construction drawings
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational and quality-control skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary project team
  • Strong time-management and prioritization skills in a multi-project environment


Why This Role Is Not Entry-Level

This position requires:
  • Independent design judgment on critical utility infrastructure
  • Direct coordination with engineers, construction managers, and field crews
  • Advanced CAD production with minimal supervision
  • Working knowledge of live utility systems, safety protocols, and constructability considerations

About Southern Company

With 4.4 million customers and more than 42,000 megawatts of generating capacity, Atlanta-based Southern Company is the premier energy company serving the Southeast. A leading U.S. producer of electricity, Southern Company owns electric utilities in four states and a growing competitive generation company, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and retail electric prices that are significantly below the national average. Southern Company has been listed the top ranking U.S. electric service provider in customer satisfaction for nine consecutive years by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.

Southern Company Careers

Join the dynamic team at Southern Company, a leader in energy innovation and a champion of sustainable practices. As one of the most respected companies in the energy sector, Southern Company offers unparalleled job opportunities that promise not only professional growth but also a commitment to diversity and leadership development.

Work You’ll Do

At Southern Company, we are not just about power generation; we are about empowering our team to innovate and lead the industry. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, using your skills to solve complex problems and drive meaningful change.

Explore a World of Opportunities

Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership role, Southern Company has a place for you. Our wide range of employment options ensures that every team member can find a path that best suits their career ambitions and skills.

Innovate and Lead

Southern Company is at the forefront of technological innovation in the energy sector. Our team members are encouraged to lead projects and initiatives that push the boundaries of what is possible in energy production and management.

Grow and Develop

We believe in nurturing the potential of our employees through targeted diversity training, leadership workshops, and continuous professional development. Career growth at Southern Company is not just a possibility—it is an expectation.

Be Part of Our Culture

Southern Company’s culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and inclusion. We celebrate diversity and believe that it drives innovation. Our team is our family, and we support each other in achieving personal and professional goals.

Benefits That Go Beyond

Choosing a career at Southern Company means enjoying a range of benefits designed to enrich your life and support your lifestyle. From health and wellness programs to retirement plans, we ensure our team members are taken care of.

Join Our Team

Ready to power up your career? Explore the job opportunities at Southern Company today. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven individuals. Enhance your skills, join a community of innovators, and work towards a sustainable future.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Southern Company by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and practical tips to advance your career.

Networking and Career Advancement

At Southern Company, networking and internal mobility are key components of career advancement. Connect with leaders, engage in cross-departmental projects, and take your professional journey to new heights.

Prepare for Your Interview

Make your mark from the first interview. Visit our career site for tips on crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and making a lasting impression.

Join Southern Company—where careers glow brighter!

SEARCH SOUTHERN COMPANY JOBS Stay ahead of the curve in your career with Southern Company, where innovation meets tradition and every employee is empowered to excel.
Learn more about Southern Company
Size
27,000 employees
Market Cap
$77.6 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+3%
Revenue
$20.3 billion
* Ladders Estimates

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