Distribution Designer

About EnergyUnited

EnergyUnited is North Carolina’s largest electric cooperative, dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable service to our members. Guided by our culture— Be safe. Be secure. Be present. Be member focused .—we’re committed to innovation, community, and operational excellence.

Position Summary

EnergyUnited is seeking a Distribution Designer to support the design and coordination of electric distribution projects across the assigned region. This role performs both administrative and technical duties and requires approximately 70% field work. The ideal candidate enjoys hands-on outdoor work, problem solving, and interacting directly with members, contractors, and community partners.

What You’ll Do

• Design and prepare member line extensions that balance safety, reliability, and cost.
• Create layouts for overhead and underground lines serving residential lots.
• Design single-phase distribution lines in accordance with system specs, NESC requirements, and RUS standards.
• Prepare work orders and staking sheets for new line construction and provide required information to operations staff.
• Stake service drops, security lights, short extensions, and routinely work independently in the field.
• Secure right-of-way easements while maintaining strong relationships with members and landowners.
• Advise potential members on rates, service requirements, and technical considerations.
• Coordinate services, simple primary extensions, and relocations with property owners, developers, and agencies.
• Maintain mapping accuracy and ensure all revisions and updates are current.
• Schedule locates through NC 811 and initiate pole transfers via NJUNS.
• Assist with staking plans, easement acquisition, and coordination with utilities and government agencies.
• Prepare required documentation for work order completion (UG agreements, SL contracts, space allocations).

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with design, coordination, and construction of engineering/operations projects.
• Participate in safety and training programs.
• Stay informed on construction, operations, and maintenance practices.
• Investigate territorial issues and collaborate with other utilities as needed.

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• ASET degree (Electric/Electronics Technology), engineering-related associate degree, or drafting experience preferred.
• 3 years or more of related experience preferred; field construction or distribution design experience highly desirable.

Knowledge & Skills

• Basic understanding of electric power distribution (preferred).
• Familiarity with RUS construction standards (preferred).
• Understanding of the National Electrical Safety Code (preferred).
• Basic electrical theory and load analysis (preferred).
• Computer proficiency required.
• Must become a Notary Public in NC within one year of employment.
• Valid NC driver’s license with a good driving record.

Working Conditions

• Primarily outdoor field work in all weather conditions.
• Routinely walk rough terrain, measure distances/angles, and place stakes.
• Occasional use of a surveyor’s transit or laser.
• Standard hours: M-F 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM, with some irregular hours required.
• Required to respond during major outages and storms.
• Exposure to weather extremes, traffic, rough terrain, slippery conditions, and electrical hazards.
• This operational position requires living within a 25-mile radius of the Lexington, NC EnergyUnited office.

Why EnergyUnited

EnergyUnited offers meaningful work, competitive benefits, and a mission-driven culture grounded in safety, member service, and innovation. Our employees make a real impact in the communities where they live and work.