Design Technologist (PWU)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Technologist (PWU)

Company: Alectra Utilities

Location: Brampton, ON, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Operations Support

Date Posted: June 04, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This Design Technologist role focuses on the creation and management of electrical distribution system designs, encompassing both overhead and underground infrastructure for Alectra Utilities.

• The position requires a strong technical foundation in utility engineering principles, including adherence to stringent safety and regulatory standards.

• Key responsibilities involve detailed design work, cost estimation, stakeholder coordination, and ensuring project compliance for the seamless delivery of power.

• This role is critical in supporting the ICI & Layouts department, contributing to system expansion, rebuilds, and customer connections with efficiency and reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Design Technologist" and the description point towards an engineering support function, the focus on "Revenue Operations" and "GTM" roles in the prompt suggests a need to frame this within an operational context. The core function of ensuring reliable power delivery directly impacts customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, which are key concerns in revenue and go-to-market operations. This role can be viewed as a vital component of the operational infrastructure that supports the company's revenue-generating activities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop detailed designs for overhead and underground electrical distribution systems, including customer service connections, ensuring adherence to best utility practices, applicable standards, laws, codes, and regulations to deliver safe, cost-effective, and reliable power.

• Utilize approved engineering tools, software, and resources for all design work, maintaining accuracy and efficiency throughout the design lifecycle.

• Calculate and prepare detailed schematics for proposed projects, including system expansion and rebuilds, while being responsible for scope, budget, and material requirements for assigned projects.

• Liaise with external stakeholders such as Right of Way (ROW) Authorities, Utility Agencies, Permitting Authorities, Contractors, and Project Owners to facilitate the design and construction of projects, including processing and securing necessary permits and agreements.

• Provide technical support and guidance to municipalities, developers, contractors, consultants, field supervisors, government agencies, and customers to ensure work coordination and compliance with specifications, policies, standards, and procedures.

• Assess and respond to technical customer inquiries, advising customers and their representatives on Alectra Utilities' standards and associated fees.

• Conduct regular job site reviews to monitor construction progress on all projects and administer the Joint Use Transfer List, coordinating with external agencies.

• Review easement documents and provide comments related to expansion and rebuild projects.

• Prepare Offers to Connect and Draft Plan Comments for specific sites, clearly outlining the financial, construction, compliance, and legal obligations for both the customer and Alectra.

• Determine customer and electrical load requirements through site meetings and service applications for new, temporary, and upgraded electrical services, ensuring integrated coordination of system schematics with design technicians, control room operators, and other workgroups.

• Perform or coordinate field line staking as required to support design and construction efforts.

• Assist in training, mentoring, and supporting other Design Technologists and Co-Op students, fostering knowledge transfer and team development.

• Ensure all designs meet regulatory requirements (e.g., ESA Regulation 22/04, CSA standards) and Alectra's internal policies, procedures, and standards.

• Maintain a working knowledge of safety legislation, EUSR rules, Alectra policies, and safe work practices, reporting any unsafe conditions or practices in accordance with company procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a blend of technical design, project coordination, and stakeholder management. For operations professionals, this translates to managing the "supply chain" of infrastructure development and ensuring that operational readiness is maintained through accurate and compliant designs. The emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance is paramount for any utility operations role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Completion of a 3-year Engineering Technology program, with a preference for Electrical (Power Option) or Civil (Structural Option).

• Eligibility for registration with the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT). Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience in utility design or a closely related engineering field. Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in computer software for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

• Experience with specialized engineering software for non-linear strength analysis, cable pulling, and transformer loading.

• Familiarity with document management systems, work order management systems, and customer information systems.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated commitment to excellent customer service.

• Ability to solve moderately complex problems effectively.

• Possession of a valid Class G driver's license.

• Familiarity with the design and operation of overhead and underground distribution systems up to a 44kV level.

• In-depth knowledge of design criteria, including tension and guying calculations, and conductor load management.

• Familiarity with materials and construction standards for utility infrastructure.

• Knowledge of materials, construction standards, approval processes, Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulations, and permitting requirements.

• Understanding of the Ontario Energy Board Distribution System Code and other provincial/federal regulatory agency requirements.

• Knowledge of civil infrastructure (water mains, sewers, road construction, soil conditions) and the ability to interpret plan and profile drawings. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.

• Proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software.

• Experience in training and mentoring junior technicians or co-op students.

• Familiarity with environmental impact assessments and ROW acquisition processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on CAD, GIS, and specific engineering software highlights the technical nature of the role. For operations candidates, demonstrating proficiency in data visualization, system mapping, and utilizing these tools for operational planning and analysis would be highly beneficial. The requirement for a driver's license and familiarity with field operations suggests a hands-on aspect to the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing at least three (3) significant electrical distribution design projects, detailing the scope, challenges, design solutions implemented, and final outcomes.

• Include examples of detailed design drawings (overhead and underground systems), schematics, and cost estimates, highlighting accuracy and adherence to standards.

• Present evidence of stakeholder coordination, including sample communications with external agencies (e.g., ROW, permitting authorities) and internal departments.

• Showcase an understanding of regulatory compliance by including examples of designs that meet specific codes (e.g., ESA Regulation 22/04, CSA Standards, OEB Distribution System Code).

• Provide case studies illustrating how design decisions contributed to safe, cost-effective, and reliable power delivery, with quantifiable results where possible. Process Documentation:

• Examples of design process workflows, from initial request to final approval, demonstrating efficiency and control measures.

• Documentation of how design estimates are developed and managed, including budget tracking and material requirement planning.

• Evidence of how technical customer inquiries are handled and resolved, showcasing customer service and problem-solving processes.

• Documentation of site review processes and how construction monitoring is conducted to ensure design compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is crucial. Candidates should focus on showcasing their ability to translate technical specifications into tangible designs and manage the associated processes. Highlighting efficiency improvements or cost savings achieved through thoughtful design will be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $38.49/hr - $61.99/hr CAD

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health and wellness programs.

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan, offering long-term financial security.

• Generous Time off: Vacation time, personal days, milestone parental leave top-up, volunteer days, and bereavement days.

• "Disconnect from Work" policy to promote work-life balance and employee well-being.

• Hybrid work environment offering flexible working arrangements.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a Design Technologist role in the utility sector in Ontario. The comprehensive benefits, particularly the Defined Benefit Pension Plan, are significant attractors for long-term career stability, which is a key consideration for many operations professionals. The hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electric Utility (Energy Sector)

Company Size: Large (Alectra Utilities is the largest municipally owned electric utility in Canada).

Founded: Alectra Utilities was formed in 2017 through the amalgamation of four municipal electricity utilities.

Team Structure:

• The Design Technologist reports to a Distribution Design Supervisor within the ICI & Layouts department.

• This role involves close collaboration with other Design Technologists, Control Room operators, field supervisors, and potentially other workgroups within Alectra.

• Cross-functional collaboration extends to external entities like municipalities, developers, contractors, and regulatory bodies. Methodology:

• Designs are created using approved engineering tools and software, adhering to rigorous utility best practices.

• Emphasis is placed on safety, cost-effectiveness, and reliability in all design outputs.

• A structured approach to project management, including scope, budget, and material planning, is expected.

• Continuous improvement is encouraged, as indicated by the company value of "Innovation" and "continuous improvement."

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Alectra Utilities operates in a highly regulated and essential service industry. The company culture emphasizes safety, collaboration, and innovation, which are crucial for maintaining operational excellence and customer satisfaction. For operations professionals, understanding this environment is key to aligning with company values and contributing effectively.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an experienced technical role, likely mid-level, requiring specialized skills and a minimum of five years of experience. It sits within the broader operational and engineering support functions of the utility.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a Distribution Design Supervisor, indicating a clear line of management and oversight. This structure allows for mentorship and guidance on complex projects.

Operations Impact: The designs created by this role directly impact the company's ability to deliver electricity safely, reliably, and efficiently. This has a significant influence on operational costs, customer satisfaction, and the company's capacity to meet demand, thus supporting Alectra's revenue-generating capabilities. Accurate designs prevent costly rework and service disruptions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific areas of distribution design (e.g., advanced underground systems, high-voltage applications, renewable integration).

• Leadership: Progression to Senior Design Technologist roles, Distribution Design Supervisor, or related project management positions.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to gain expertise in new design software, advanced engineering analysis techniques, and evolving regulatory requirements.

• Cross-functional Roles: Potential to move into roles focused on field operations, project management, or regulatory affairs within the utility sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation for a career in utility engineering and operations. The emphasis on continuous learning and potential for advancement aligns well with the career aspirations of operations professionals seeking to grow within a stable and essential industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, balancing on-site work with remote flexibility. The primary office location for this role is Brampton (Kennedy).

Office Location(s): Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

Workspace Context:

• The role involves significant time spent indoors using computer software for design and analysis.

• Hybrid arrangement suggests access to office-based resources and collaborative spaces, alongside the flexibility of remote work.

• Collaboration with team members and stakeholders is integral, facilitated through both in-person meetings and digital communication tools.

• Access to Alectra's standard suite of engineering and office software is expected.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with the potential for hybrid arrangements to support work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a key benefit, offering a balance between structured office work and remote flexibility. This is increasingly important for operational roles that require both focused individual work and collaborative team engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Resume and application review, likely by a Talent Acquisition specialist, focusing on meeting the minimum qualifications and key skills.

• Technical Interview: Assessment of technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and experience with design software (CAD, GIS) and utility standards. This may involve scenario-based questions.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present examples from their portfolio, demonstrating their design capabilities, project management approach, and understanding of utility operations.

• Behavioral Interview: Evaluation of cultural fit, teamwork, communication skills, and alignment with Alectra's values (Safety, Respect, Customer Focus, Excellence, Innovation).

• Final Interview: Potentially with the hiring manager or a panel, focusing on specific project experiences and overall suitability for the role and team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or complexity.

• For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role, the design process followed, the tools used, the challenges encountered, and the final outcomes (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, compliance achieved).

• Be prepared to discuss your design choices and justify them based on technical principles, safety standards, and cost-effectiveness.

• Highlight your experience with coordinating with various stakeholders and navigating permitting processes.

• Ensure your portfolio showcases your proficiency with CAD and GIS software, providing visual examples of your work. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a typical design challenge, such as designing a new underground service for a complex customer site or planning a system upgrade.

• Anticipate questions about how you ensure designs meet regulatory requirements and safety standards.

• Prepare examples of how you have managed project scope, budget, and material requirements in previous roles.

• Review Alectra's values and be ready to provide examples of how you embody them in your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is essential for this role. Candidates should focus on presenting projects that demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of utility design, project execution, and stakeholder management. The interview process likely includes a blend of technical assessment and evaluation of soft skills crucial for operations roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Advanced proficiency required for creating detailed engineering drawings (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar industry-standard platforms).

• GIS Software: Experience with Geographic Information Systems for mapping, data management, and spatial analysis (e.g., Esri ArcGIS platform).

• Specialized Engineering Software: Tools for non-linear strength analysis, cable pulling simulations, and transformer loading calculations.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for storing, organizing, and retrieving design documents and project information.

• Work Order Management Systems: Experience with systems used for managing and tracking work orders related to design and construction.

• Customer Information Systems (CIS): Understanding of how design impacts customer accounts and service data.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel) for data analysis, calculations, and reporting.

• Ability to generate reports and visualizations from design and project data. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding customer service systems is important for assessing customer needs and coordinating service connections.

• Familiarity with project management or workflow automation tools could be beneficial for managing design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technical requirements are heavily focused on design software. For operations professionals, framing your experience with these tools in terms of how they support operational efficiency, data integrity, and project delivery is key. Highlighting any experience with data analysis or reporting derived from these systems would be a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety: Paramount in all operations. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to safe work practices and understanding of safety legislation.

• Respect: Valuing colleagues, customers, and stakeholders, fostering an inclusive environment.

• Customer Focus: Delivering reliable power and exceptional service, anticipating needs, and acting with care.

• Excellence: Elevating performance, embracing diversity, and delivering quality through collaboration.

• Innovation: Driving growth through embracing change, creativity, and continuous improvement in design and operational processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, involving close work with internal teams (Design Supervisor, technicians, control room) and extensive external stakeholder engagement (municipalities, contractors, regulators).

• Emphasis on clear communication, technical support, and coordination to ensure project success.

• A culture of mentorship is present, with senior technologists supporting junior staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: Alectra's stated values are deeply integrated into the operations of a utility. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how their professional approach aligns with these values, particularly safety and customer focus, which are critical for any role in this industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Regulatory Complexity: Navigating evolving regulations (ESA, OEB, CSA) and ensuring all designs comply.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the needs and requirements of diverse internal and external stakeholders.

• Technical Demands: Keeping pace with advancements in design technology, materials, and engineering principles.

• Project Volume & Deadlines: Managing multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines, requiring strong time management and prioritization skills.

• Integration of New Technologies: Adapting designs to incorporate new technologies for grid modernization and renewable energy integration.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications relevant to engineering technology and utility operations.

• Software Proficiency: Advanced training in CAD, GIS, and specialized engineering analysis software.

• Regulatory Updates: Continuous learning on changes to codes, standards, and legislation affecting utility design.

• Mentorship Programs: Learning from experienced supervisors and senior technologists.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining insights into different departments within the utility, such as operations, construction, and regulatory affairs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities for continuous professional development in a dynamic and essential industry. Candidates who embrace challenges and are committed to ongoing learning will find significant growth potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex distribution design project you managed. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, technical execution, and results).

• "How do you ensure your designs comply with safety regulations like the ESA Regulation 22/04 and CSA standards?" (Assess understanding of compliance and risk management).

• "Walk me through your process for creating a design estimate and managing material requirements for a project." (Evaluate project scoping and financial acumen).

• "How would you handle a situation where a key stakeholder (e.g., a municipality) disagrees with your proposed design?" (Test communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Alectra Utilities and our mission to 'energize a brighter future'?" (Gauge research and alignment with company vision).

• "How do you embody Alectra's values of Safety, Respect, Customer Focus, Excellence, and Innovation in your daily work?" (Assess cultural fit and behavioral alignment).

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment. How do you ensure effective collaboration and productivity?" (Evaluate adaptability and remote work skills). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 2-3 of your most impactful projects that showcase a range of skills (e.g., overhead design, underground design, complex customer service).

• For each project, structure your presentation:

  • Project Overview: Client, scope, objectives.
  • Your Role & Responsibilities: What you specifically did.
  • Design Process & Tools: How you approached it and what software you used.
  • Key Challenges: Technical, regulatory, or stakeholder issues.
  • Solutions & Outcomes: How you overcame challenges and the final results (efficiency, cost, safety, reliability).

• Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices and the technical aspects of your work.

• Emphasize how your designs contribute to the company's operational goals of reliability and cost-effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: Strong preparation around technical design principles, regulatory compliance, and Alectra's specific values will be key. Demonstrating how your design work directly supports operational efficiency and customer service is crucial for this role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Alectra Utilities careers page via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate a portfolio that prominently features your most relevant electrical distribution design projects, specifically highlighting overhead and underground systems, compliance with utility standards, and stakeholder coordination.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords from the job description, including "Design Technologist," "CAD," "GIS," "Distribution Design," "Overhead Systems," "Underground Systems," "ESA Regulation 22/04," and "OEB Distribution System Code." Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and technical expertise. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions related to Alectra's values and your experience in a hybrid environment.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Alectra Utilities, its mission, values, and recent projects. Understand the energy utility sector in Ontario and Alectra's role within it.

⚠️ 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.

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