Customer Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Customer Design Manager

Company: American Electric Power (AEP)

Location: Gahanna, OH, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-11

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and direct a team of professionals responsible for the design of power system electrical facilities, ensuring optimal operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Manage project lifecycles from design through implementation, focusing on budget control, adherence to codes, and meeting project schedules within the utility operations framework.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and employee development, empowering the team to enhance technical capabilities and contribute to innovative solutions for energy delivery.

• Serve as a key liaison, developing and maintaining strong relationships with internal stakeholders, external customers, and regulatory bodies to ensure seamless project execution and alignment with business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of "Customer Design Manager" at a major utility like American Electric Power is intrinsically linked to operational excellence. The focus on "design of power system electrical facilities" indicates a deep involvement in the foundational aspects of energy delivery infrastructure, directly impacting reliability, efficiency, and customer experience. This role bridges engineering principles with management, requiring a strong understanding of operational workflows, project management within a regulated environment, and the ability to translate customer needs into actionable design plans.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the Customer Design team, overseeing the design and planning of electrical infrastructure projects to meet evolving customer demands and regulatory requirements.

• Ensure comprehensive project management, including budget adherence, material selection, and work progress monitoring, to control costs and ensure projects are delivered within estimated budgets and timelines.

• Uphold and enforce company policies, including Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action obligations, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment within the department.

• Drive superior customer satisfaction by instilling a customer-focused attitude within the team, ensuring a thorough understanding of customer expectations and delivering high-quality design solutions.

• Manage staff performance through effective communication of job expectations, assignment of responsibilities, establishment of accountabilities, setting performance objectives, and providing regular feedback and career development opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of technical oversight, people management, and strategic execution critical for operations leadership. The emphasis on "codes, policies, standards, internal and external design requirements" points to a need for meticulous attention to detail and regulatory compliance, a hallmark of the utility sector. The responsibility for "developing employee skills/knowledge" and "administering personnel policies" underscores the managerial aspect, requiring strong HR and leadership competencies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or Industrial Engineering.

• Alternatively, an Associate's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or Industrial Engineering coupled with 2 years of relevant experience. Experience:

• A minimum of 6 years of experience within the utility sector, or equivalent experience in engineering, construction, construction management, or engineering supervision. Required Skills:

• Power System Design: Expertise in the principles and practices of designing electrical power systems and facilities.

• Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage engineering teams, including performance management and employee development.

• Project Management: Strong skills in planning, executing, and monitoring projects, with an emphasis on budget control, resource allocation, and schedule adherence.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with internal teams, external customers, and regulatory bodies.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues, analyze complex design challenges, and implement effective solutions within operational constraints.

• Ethical Conduct: Demonstrated commitment to the highest standards of ethical behavior and support for corporate compliance policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Registered Professional Engineer (PE) License: Highly advantageous for demonstrating advanced technical credibility and engineering oversight capabilities.

• Incident Command System (ICS) Experience: Familiarity with ICS protocols for emergency response management, crucial for utility operations.

• Knowledge of Utility Regulations: Understanding of local, state, and federal regulations governing utility operations and electrical infrastructure.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Experience with methodologies aimed at enhancing design processes, efficiency, and customer service delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements clearly indicate a need for a technically grounded leader with significant practical experience in the utility industry. The preference for a PE license suggests a role that requires a high level of engineering judgment and accountability. The "Other Requirements" section, including ICS and ethical behavior, emphasizes the critical nature of safety, compliance, and reliability in this operational leadership role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in managing and optimizing design workflows for complex electrical infrastructure projects, showcasing process efficiency improvements and successful project delivery metrics.

• Provide examples of managing project budgets, material procurement, and resource allocation, highlighting cost-saving initiatives and ROI achieved through effective operational planning.

• Showcase experience with relevant engineering design software and systems (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS, project management platforms), illustrating proficiency in utilizing technology for design and operational oversight.

• Include case studies that illustrate the ability to translate customer requirements into robust, compliant, and cost-effective design solutions, emphasizing stakeholder communication and satisfaction. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing standardized design processes and procedures that enhance consistency, quality, and compliance across the team's output.

• Documentation of workflow optimization efforts, illustrating how processes were streamlined to improve project turnaround times, reduce errors, and increase overall team productivity.

• Examples of performance tracking and reporting mechanisms used to monitor design team output, project progress, and adherence to operational KPIs, demonstrating data-driven management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Customer Design Manager role, a portfolio should not only showcase technical design achievements but also managerial competence in process management, team leadership, and operational efficiency. The emphasis on "process optimization," "budget control," and "stakeholder communication" suggests that candidates should be prepared to articulate how they have improved operational outcomes through structured methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $116,255 - $151,132 USD per year (This range is based on the provided data and reflects industry standards for a management position in the utility sector within the specified experience level and location.)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: This typically includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, and disability coverage. Specifics may vary but are generally designed to support employee and family well-being.

• Retirement Savings Plan: AEP likely offers a 401(k) or similar retirement savings plan, often with a company match, to support long-term financial planning.

• Paid Time Off: Includes vacation days, sick leave, and holidays, designed to provide work-life balance and time for rest and rejuvenation.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuing education to support career growth and skill enhancement, essential for staying current in the evolving energy industry.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for employees facing personal or work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time employment, typically 40 hours per week. While office-based, the role may require flexibility for occasional overtime, emergency response duties (as part of the Incident Command System), and attending to critical customer needs outside of regular business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and aligns with management roles in the energy utility sector. The "comprehensive benefits package" is a standard offering for large corporations like AEP, and candidates should expect robust health, retirement, and time-off benefits. The mention of ICS participation implies a potential for on-call duties or emergency response, which can necessitate flexible working hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy / Utilities (Electric Power Generation and Distribution)

Company Size: Large Enterprise (American Electric Power is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, employing tens of thousands of people globally.)

Founded: 1906 (American Electric Power has a long-standing history, providing stability and deep industry expertise.)

Team Structure:

• The Customer Design team likely operates within a broader Engineering or Operations division, reporting to a Director or VP of Engineering/Operations.

• The team is composed of engineers, designers, and possibly project coordinators, specializing in various aspects of electrical power system design.

• Collaboration is expected with departments such as Grid Modernization, Operations Planning, Field Services, Customer Relations, and Regulatory Affairs to ensure integrated project execution. Methodology:

• AEP likely adheres to rigorous engineering standards and best practices, including those set by IEEE, NESC, and relevant regulatory bodies (e.g., FERC, state utility commissions).

• Emphasis is placed on data-driven decision-making, utilizing system performance data, customer feedback, and predictive analytics to inform design choices and operational strategies.

• Process optimization and efficiency are key drivers, with a continuous focus on improving reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness in all aspects of power system design and delivery.

Company Website: https://www.aep.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a large, established utility like AEP means operating within a highly regulated and safety-conscious environment. The culture is likely to be structured, process-oriented, and focused on reliability and long-term sustainability. The company's long history suggests a stable work environment with deep-rooted expertise, but also a need for adaptability to new technologies and market demands.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This is a mid-to-senior level management position, responsible for a specialized team within the broader operations or engineering function of the company. It requires a blend of technical expertise, people leadership, and strategic planning capabilities. Reporting Structure:

• The Customer Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President of Engineering, Operations, or a related functional area. They will manage a team of engineers and designers, providing direct supervision and guidance. Operations Impact:

• This role has a significant impact on the company's operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and long-term infrastructure development. Effective design management directly influences the reliability, capacity, and cost-effectiveness of AEP's power delivery systems, impacting millions of customers and the company's financial performance. Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Higher Management: Potential to move into Director-level roles overseeing larger engineering or operational departments, or to specialized senior management positions within grid modernization or infrastructure development.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to lead cross-departmental initiatives or transition into roles focused on strategic planning, regulatory affairs, or business development within the energy sector.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of power system engineering, such as renewable integration, smart grid technologies, or advanced grid control systems, potentially leading to principal engineer or subject matter expert roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Customer Design Manager" position is a critical stepping stone for individuals aiming for senior leadership roles within the utility industry. The combination of technical oversight, team management, and strategic contribution offers a clear path for career progression, emphasizing the development of holistic operational leadership skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role, with potential for site visits to project locations or field operations. The "AEPOH 700 Bldg Gahanna" address suggests a dedicated corporate or operational facility.

Office Location(s): Gahanna, OH. This location is likely a hub for engineering and operational management functions for AEP's Ohio operations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be typical of a professional office environment, likely involving a desk, computer, and access to standard office technology.

• Opportunities for collaboration will exist within the immediate team and with other departments, potentially through regular meetings, project reviews, and shared workspaces.

• Access to relevant design software, project management tools, and internal company systems is expected to support daily tasks and operational oversight. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, the role's responsibilities, particularly its connection to essential utility services and potential involvement in the Incident Command System, may require flexibility to address urgent operational needs, emergencies, or critical project milestones that extend beyond regular business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role implies a need for consistent presence and active engagement within the office environment. The mention of "Sedentary Work" in the original posting details suggests that the primary duties involve desk-based activities, but the operational context of a utility company means that occasional field visits or emergency response duties could arise, requiring adaptability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the minimum requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your experience in power system design, team leadership, project management, and operational oversight. Be prepared to speak about your management style and how you foster employee development.

• Technical/Behavioral Interview: This may involve a panel interview with team members, peers, or senior leaders. Expect questions related to problem-solving, handling challenging situations, and your approach to managing projects and teams under pressure.

• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present a case study from your past experience demonstrating your ability to manage a complex design project, improve operational processes, or lead a team through a challenging initiative.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project or initiative presented, provide specific metrics demonstrating impact (e.g., percentage reduction in design time, cost savings achieved, improvement in customer satisfaction scores, number of employees developed).

• Focus on Process & Strategy: Highlight your role in developing or optimizing design processes, managing budgets, and implementing strategies to improve operational efficiency and team performance.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Showcase examples of how you’ve led teams, managed performance, and fostered professional growth among your direct reports.

• Tailor to AEP: Research AEP's current initiatives, challenges, and values. Frame your portfolio examples in a way that shows how your experience aligns with their operational goals and company culture.

• Clarity and Conciseness: Present information clearly and concisely, using visuals where appropriate (e.g., process flowcharts, dashboards).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing a design team facing tight deadlines, budget constraints, or complex technical challenges.

• Prepare to articulate your approach to conflict resolution within a team or with stakeholders.

• Anticipate questions about how you ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements in your design and management practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a role like this at a major utility will likely be thorough, emphasizing both technical competence and managerial leadership. A well-structured portfolio that clearly articulates operational improvements, team development, and project success with quantifiable results will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Engineering Design Software: Proficiency with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation) and potentially specialized power system design tools (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E, CYME) is expected.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar tools for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: While not directly a sales role, understanding how customer data is managed and utilized for design purposes (e.g., Salesforce, SAP CRM) could be beneficial for understanding customer needs.

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Experience with GIS platforms (e.g., ESRI ArcGIS) is often critical for utility infrastructure design, mapping, and asset management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Skills in using tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, PivotTables), potentially SQL, or business intelligence platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for analyzing project data, performance metrics, and budget reports.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating or interpreting dashboards that visualize key performance indicators (KPIs) for design projects, team performance, and operational efficiency.

CRM & Automation:

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Familiarity with large-scale ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, which are common in utilities for managing resources, finances, and project portfolios.

• Workflow Automation Tools: While perhaps not hands-on implementation, an understanding of how automation can streamline design review processes, data submission, or reporting would be valuable.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation and technical drawings.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a manager who is not only adept at leading people but also comfortable with the technology that underpins modern utility operations. Proficiency in industry-standard engineering software, project management tools, and data analytics platforms is essential for effective oversight and decision-making.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in the utility industry, emphasizing the commitment to preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of employees, contractors, and the public.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting customer needs, delivering reliable and high-quality energy services, and ensuring customer satisfaction through effective design and operations.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of honesty, ethical conduct, and corporate compliance in all business dealings and decision-making processes.

• Efficiency & Innovation: Striving for continuous improvement in operational processes, embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to enhance performance, reduce costs, and adapt to industry changes.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members support each other, share knowledge, and work together effectively across departments to achieve common goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands active collaboration with various departments, including engineering, operations, customer service, regulatory affairs, and potentially finance, to ensure alignment and successful project outcomes.

• Process-Oriented Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on designs, processes, and team performance to drive continuous improvement and learning.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the dissemination of best practices, technical knowledge, and lessons learned across the team and the wider organization to build collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style at AEP are likely to be deeply rooted in the operational necessities of a large utility: safety, reliability, and customer service. A candidate who can demonstrate alignment with these principles and a collaborative approach will be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Evolving Grid Technologies: Adapting to the rapid integration of renewable energy sources, smart grid technologies, and advanced metering infrastructure, which require new design approaches and operational strategies.

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating complex and ever-changing regulatory landscapes that impact infrastructure design, project approvals, and operational standards.

• Budgetary Constraints: Balancing the need for infrastructure upgrades and new development with financial limitations and the imperative to maintain cost-effectiveness for customers.

• Talent Development & Retention: Attracting and retaining skilled engineering talent in a competitive market, and ensuring continuous upskilling of the existing team to meet future demands.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Managing diverse expectations and priorities among internal departments, external customers, and regulatory bodies to ensure smooth project execution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Engineering Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications in areas like project management (PMP), electrical engineering (PE), or grid modernization technologies.

• Leadership Training Programs: Participating in company-sponsored leadership development programs designed to enhance management, strategic thinking, and executive presence.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending relevant utility industry events to stay abreast of technological advancements, regulatory changes, and best practices in power system design and operations.

• Mentorship Programs: Engaging in mentorship opportunities, either as a mentee to learn from senior leaders or as a mentor to develop leadership skills and share expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The utility sector is undergoing significant transformation, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This role offers a chance to be at the forefront of modernizing energy infrastructure, requiring a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a team through a complex design project with significant technical challenges. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and process management.)

• "How do you ensure your team stays current with evolving power system technologies and regulatory changes?" (Highlight continuous learning, professional development, and adaptability.)

• "Walk me through your process for managing project budgets and ensuring cost control while delivering high-quality designs." (Emphasize financial acumen, resource management, and operational efficiency.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about American Electric Power, and why are you interested in this Customer Design Manager role specifically?" (Research AEP’s mission, values, recent projects, and challenges.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and customer focus within your team?" (Align your response with AEP’s stated values and the inherent requirements of a utility company.)

• "Describe your experience with managing diverse teams and ensuring equal employment opportunity." (Demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity and fair management practices.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or key responsibility areas (e.g., Project Management, Team Leadership, Process Improvement).

• Quantify Impact: For each example, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the measurable results (e.g., "Reduced design cycle time by 15%," "Achieved $1M in cost savings on Project X," "Improved team performance scores by 10%").

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in decision-making, team motivation, and strategic direction.

• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss challenges encountered and how you overcame them, showcasing resilience and problem-solving skills.

• Relevance: Tailor your presentation to highlight experiences most relevant to power system design, utility operations, and management within a large, regulated environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a balance of technical engineering knowledge, robust project management skills, and effective people leadership, all within the context of the utility industry's unique demands for safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the AEP Career Site link provided.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in power system design, utility operations, project management, team leadership, and budget control. Use keywords from the job description and align your achievements with AEP's operational goals.

• Portfolio Curation: Prepare a concise portfolio that showcases your most impactful projects. Focus on quantifiable results, process improvements, and examples of your leadership in managing design teams and complex infrastructure projects.

• Interview Preparation: Rehearse answers to common behavioral and situational questions, focusing on demonstrating your problem-solving abilities, leadership style, and understanding of the utility industry's operational nuances.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research American Electric Power's mission, values, current projects, and recent news to articulate your alignment with their strategic objectives and company culture during interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.