Design Technologist (PWU)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Technologist (PWU) Company: Alectra Utilities Location: Vaughan, Ontario, Canada Job Type: Full-Time Category: Engineering & Design Operations Date Posted: November 5, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical in supporting Alectra's Design team, focusing on the creation and management of design estimates and drawings for overhead and underground electrical systems.
• The Design Technologist will be instrumental in ensuring that all designs adhere to best utility practices, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• A key aspect of this role involves extensive stakeholder communication and coordination with internal teams, municipalities, developers, and customers to ensure project success.
• The position requires a strong technical aptitude for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to produce accurate and compliant project documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "PWU" designation in the job title likely refers to a specific unionized bargaining unit (e.g., Power Workers' Union), which may have specific internal application considerations or requirements as noted in the job description. The role is situated within the "ICI & Layouts" department, indicating a focus on industrial, commercial, and institutional projects, as well as physical site layouts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create detailed designs for overhead and underground distribution systems, including customer services, ensuring adherence to safety, cost-effectiveness, and reliability standards using CADD software.
• Manage project scope, budget, and material requirements for assigned projects, performing necessary calculations and preparing schematics for system expansion and rebuilds.
• Liaise with municipalities, other utilities, customers, developers, and contractors regarding project design and construction, coordinating permits and agreements.
• Provide technical support and guidance to external stakeholders (municipalities, developers, contractors, consultants, government agencies) and internal teams (field supervisors) to ensure compliance with specifications and standards.
• Assess and resolve customer complaints, advising them on Alectra Utilities' standards and associated fees.
• Conduct regular job site reviews to monitor construction progress on assigned projects and administer the Joint Use Transfer List.
• Review easement documents and provide feedback pertinent to expansion and rebuild projects.
• Prepare Offer to Connect documents and Draft Plan Comments, clearly outlining customer and Alectra's financial, construction, compliance, and legal obligations.
• Determine customer and electrical load requirements through site meetings and service applications for new, temporary, and upgraded electrical services, coordinating system schematics with relevant workgroups.
• Perform field line staking as required to support design and construction activities.
• Provide training, mentoring, and assistance to other Design Technologists and Co-Op students, sharing expertise and best practices.
• Ensure all designs meet regulatory requirements, including ESA Regulation 22/04, CSA standards, and Alectra's internal policies and procedures.
• Maintain a working knowledge of and adherence to all applicable safety legislation, EUSR rules, Alectra policies, and safe work practices, reporting any unsafe conditions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design, project coordination, stakeholder management, and regulatory compliance within the utility sector. The emphasis on "best utility practices" and specific codes (ESA, CSA) indicates a need for deep industry knowledge. The mentoring aspect suggests a potential for leadership development within the team.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Completion of a 3-year Engineering Technology program, with a preference for Electrical (Power Option) or Civil (Structural Option).
• Eligibility for OACETT (Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists) registration is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience in utility design or a similar technical engineering field.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation) for creating detailed engineering drawings.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for spatial data management and analysis relevant to utility infrastructure.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, essential for liaising with diverse stakeholders and documenting technical information.
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability for moderately complex technical and project-related issues.
• Familiarity with the design of overhead and underground distribution systems up to the 44kV level.
• In-depth knowledge of design criteria such as tension and guying calculations, conductor load analysis.
• Understanding of materials and construction standards applicable to utility infrastructure.
• Knowledge of the approval process, including PUCCs (Public Utility Commission), permits, and regulatory requirements.
• Familiarity with the Ontario Energy Board Distribution System Code and other provincial/federal regulated agency requirements.
• Knowledge of civil infrastructure (water mains, sewers, road construction, soil conditions) and the ability to interpret plan and profile drawings.
• Valid Class G Driver's License.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with work order management systems, customer information systems, and document management systems.
• Proficiency in presentation applications for conveying technical designs and project information.
• Experience in developing Offer to Connect documents and Draft Plan Comments.
• Understanding of safety legislation and safe work practices within the utility industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of technical software proficiency (CAD, GIS), deep domain knowledge in electrical distribution systems, and strong interpersonal and communication abilities for stakeholder engagement. The preference for Electrical or Civil Engineering technology programs and OACETT eligibility points towards a highly specialized technical role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of completed design projects, including both overhead and underground electrical distribution systems, demonstrating technical complexity and adherence to standards.
• Include examples of detailed design drawings, schematics, and calculations performed using CADD software.
• Present instances where you managed project scope, budget, and material requirements, highlighting cost-effective solutions.
• Demonstrate experience in stakeholder coordination by providing examples of successful communication and collaboration with municipalities, developers, and customers.
• Highlight projects where you had to interpret and apply regulatory standards (e.g., ESA, CSA, OEB Distribution System Code) in your designs.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your process for creating detailed design estimates and drawings, from initial requirements gathering to final submission.
• Articulate your methodology for performing calculations related to electrical load, tension, and guying.
• Describe your approach to liaising with external agencies for permits and agreements and managing interdepartmental coordination.
• Detail your process for assessing customer needs, resolving complaints, and preparing Offer to Connect documents.
• Explain your system for monitoring construction through job site reviews and administering joint use transfer lists.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly requested initially, candidates should be prepared to discuss their past work and processes in detail. The emphasis on CADD, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder management means portfolio pieces should highlight these aspects. The role's technical nature suggests a need for clear, well-documented examples of design work and problem-solving.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $37.23/hr - $59.95/hr (CAD)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Health and wellness programs.
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Mentorship programs.
• Learning opportunities to support career growth.
• Generous time off policies, including vacation time, personal days, milestone parental leave top-up, volunteer days, and bereavement days.
• "Disconnect from Work" policy to encourage work-life balance.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided hourly rate range is competitive for experienced technologists in the utility sector in the Greater Toronto Area. The blend of benefits, including a defined benefit pension plan and comprehensive time-off policies, indicates a strong commitment to employee well-being and long-term career stability, which is often a hallmark of established utility companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electric Utility / Energy Distribution Company Size: Large (Alectra Utilities is the largest municipally owned electric utility in Canada, employing over 1,000 people). Founded: Alectra Utilities was formed in 2017 through the amalgamation of several municipal utilities, building on a long history of service in the region.

Team Structure:

• The Design Technologist reports to a Distribution Design Supervisor within the ICI & Layouts department.
• The team likely comprises other Design Technologists, CAD/GIS specialists, and administrative support, working collaboratively on design projects.
• Close collaboration is expected with other departments such as Engineering, Operations, Construction, Customer Service, and potentially external regulatory bodies and stakeholders.

Methodology:

• Designs are created using CADD software, adhering to strict utility best practices, safety standards, and regulatory codes (e.g., ESA, CSA, OEB).
• Project management principles are applied to scope, budget, and material requirements.
• Stakeholder engagement is a core methodology, involving regular communication and coordination with internal and external parties.
• A strong focus on safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness drives design decisions.
• Continuous improvement and innovation are encouraged, as reflected in the company's values.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Alectra Utilities operates in a highly regulated and safety-critical industry. The company's values (Safety, Respect, Customer Focus, Excellence, Innovation) suggest a culture that prioritizes robust operational processes, employee well-being, and customer satisfaction. The "energize a brighter future" slogan points towards a forward-thinking and sustainability-oriented organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position for a Design Technologist, requiring significant technical expertise and experience (5+ years). It is a specialized technical track within the broader operations and engineering functions of a utility company.

Reporting Structure: The Design Technologist reports to a Distribution Design Supervisor. This indicates a clear hierarchical structure common in utility operations, with opportunities for mentorship and guidance from experienced leadership.

Operations Impact: The work of a Design Technologist directly impacts the reliability, safety, and efficiency of Alectra's electrical distribution network. Accurate designs ensure that power is delivered safely and cost-effectively to customers, supporting economic growth and community well-being. Their designs are the foundation for construction and maintenance activities, influencing operational efficiency and long-term infrastructure resilience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of electrical distribution design, such as high-voltage systems, underground infrastructure, or renewable energy integration.
• Leadership Development: Progress into roles such as Senior Design Technologist, Distribution Design Supervisor, or Project Manager, leading teams and managing complex projects.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into related operational or engineering roles, leveraging design knowledge in areas like asset management, system planning, or construction supervision.
• Continuous Learning: Access to ongoing training, certifications, and mentorship programs to stay current with industry advancements and regulatory changes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear technical career path within the utility sector. The emphasis on mentoring suggests opportunities for knowledge transfer and development into more senior or supervisory positions. Growth is likely tied to mastering technical skills, project management capabilities, and leadership potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, with a primary office location in Vaughan (Cityview). This suggests a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

Office Location(s): Vaughan, Ontario, Canada. This location is within the Greater Toronto Area, offering access to a major metropolitan hub.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model allows for focused design work at home and collaborative sessions, team meetings, and site coordination discussions within the office.
• Access to CADD, GIS, and other essential design software and systems will be provided.
• Opportunities for field visits and job site reviews will be part of the role, requiring time away from the office.
• The "ICI & Layouts" department likely fosters a collaborative environment for technical problem-solving and design review.

Work Schedule: Standard 40 hours per week, with the flexibility offered by the hybrid work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a significant factor for work-life balance. For this role, the hybrid nature likely means specific days will be required in the office for collaboration, design reviews, and team interaction, while other days can be spent remotely focusing on detailed design work. Understanding the expected in-office days will be crucial for candidates.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition team reviews applications for minimum qualifications.
• Technical Assessment/Interview: Candidates will likely undergo interviews with the hiring manager and potentially senior team members to assess technical skills, design experience, and problem-solving abilities. This may include discussing past projects in detail.
• Case Study/Technical Challenge: A practical exercise or case study related to electrical distribution design, CADD usage, or stakeholder coordination might be administered to evaluate practical application of skills.
• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of cultural fit, teamwork, communication, and alignment with Alectra's values.
• Final Interview: Potentially with higher management or a broader panel to finalize selection.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your experience in designing overhead and underground distribution systems, complex customer service designs, or system expansions.
• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Ensure your examples clearly illustrate your skills in CADD software, including detailed drawings, schematics, and calculations.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: For each project, explain any challenges encountered and how you applied your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills to overcome them.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the outcomes of your designs (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, compliance achieved).
• Explain Your Process: Be ready to articulate your design methodology, from initial requirements to final design documentation and stakeholder communication.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Core Concepts: Refresh your knowledge on electrical distribution system design principles, CADD software functionalities, and relevant industry codes and standards.
• Practice Problem-Solving: Work through hypothetical design scenarios or troubleshooting issues common in utility operations.
• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare to articulate how you would communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders or resolve customer disputes.
• Company Research: Understand Alectra's operations, values, and the specific challenges faced by utility companies in Ontario.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of the role, expect in-depth technical questions and potentially a practical assessment. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with specific design challenges, regulatory compliance, and their process for using CADD and GIS tools. The "PWU" designation might mean unionized internal candidates are considered first.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CADD Software: Advanced proficiency required. Likely includes AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar industry-standard drafting software for creating detailed electrical and civil designs.
• GIS Software: Experience with Geographic Information Systems (e.g., Esri ArcGIS) for managing spatial data, network analysis, and visualizing infrastructure.
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing and retrieving project documentation.
• Work Order Management Systems: Experience with systems used to track and manage design and construction requests.
• Customer Information Systems (CIS): Understanding of how design integrates with customer account data.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not the primary focus, proficiency in spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel) for calculations, budget tracking, and data analysis is essential.
• Ability to interpret and utilize data from GIS and work order systems for design purposes.

CRM & Automation:

• While direct CRM interaction might be limited, understanding how design impacts customer service and billing processes is beneficial.
• Automation within CADD/GIS (e.g., scripting, data-driven design) could be an advanced skill.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical tools are CADD and GIS. Candidates should be ready to discuss their level of expertise and specific applications of these tools in utility design. Familiarity with other enterprise systems common in utilities (Work Order, CIS, Document Management) is highly advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values: Alectra Utilities emphasizes:

• Safety: A paramount value in the utility sector, requiring constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols. This means designs must prioritize safety in construction and operation.
• Respect: Valuing all individuals, fostering honesty and inclusion. In a team setting, this translates to effective collaboration and respectful communication.
• Customer Focus: Being reliable, anticipating needs, and delivering solutions with care. This impacts how designs are developed to meet customer requirements and service levels.
• Excellence: Elevating performance, embracing diversity, and delivering quality through collaboration. This drives a commitment to producing high-quality, compliant designs.
• Innovation: Driving growth by embracing change, creativity, and continuous improvement. This encourages finding efficient and effective design solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires extensive collaboration with various internal departments and external entities, necessitating strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Process Review: Designs are subject to review for compliance, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to standards, implying a culture that values feedback and continuous improvement.
• Knowledge Sharing: The mentoring aspect suggests a supportive environment where experienced team members share knowledge and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values are deeply embedded in its operations. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their work aligns with these values, particularly safety, customer focus, and excellence, through examples of their past projects and problem-solving approaches.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Regulatory Environment: Navigating and ensuring compliance with a multitude of provincial and federal regulations, codes, and utility standards can be challenging.
• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of various stakeholders (customers, municipalities, developers, internal teams) requires strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Technical Complexity: Designing for diverse terrains, existing infrastructure, and evolving load requirements demands robust technical expertise and problem-solving capabilities.
• Hybrid Work Coordination: Effectively collaborating and managing workflows in a hybrid environment, ensuring seamless communication and project progression.
• Project Prioritization: Managing multiple projects with competing deadlines and resource demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Certifications: Pursue certifications relevant to electrical distribution design, CADD/GIS proficiency, or project management.
• Advanced Training: Participate in specialized training programs offered by Alectra or external providers on new technologies, software updates, or regulatory changes.
• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from experienced supervisors and senior technologists, fostering skill development and career progression.
• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Opportunities to learn about other facets of utility operations, such as construction, operations, or planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior technical role in a regulated utility. These challenges also represent opportunities for growth, as overcoming them builds expertise and resilience. Alectra's commitment to learning and development suggests a supportive environment for addressing these challenges.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex overhead or underground distribution design project you managed. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards?" (Focus on technical skills, problem-solving, and regulatory knowledge).
• "Walk me through your process for liaising with a municipality or developer to secure necessary permits and agreements for a new project." (Assess stakeholder management and coordination skills).
• "How do you approach determining electrical load requirements for a new customer service, and what factors do you consider to ensure reliable power delivery?" (Evaluate technical understanding and customer focus).
• "Describe a situation where you had to resolve a customer complaint related to design or service. What was your approach and the outcome?" (Gauge customer service and conflict resolution abilities).
• "How do you ensure your designs are cost-effective and meet Alectra's construction standards while also addressing customer needs?" (Assess balancing competing priorities and efficiency).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do your personal values align with Alectra's core values of Safety, Respect, Customer Focus, Excellence, and Innovation?" (Prepare examples demonstrating each value).
• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment and how you maintain productivity and collaboration." (Highlight adaptability and communication strategies).
• "What do you know about Alectra Utilities and its role in the Ontario energy sector?" (Show research on the company and industry).
• "How do you approach mentoring junior team members or sharing your technical expertise?" (Demonstrate teamwork and leadership potential).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio around key project types or skill sets (e.g., Overhead Design, Underground Design, Stakeholder Coordination).
• Detail: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the technical challenges, the solutions implemented (including software used), and the outcome. Use visual aids (drawings, schematics) where appropriate.
• Quantify: Wherever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., "designed a system to serve X new customers," "reduced material costs by Y%," "ensured compliance with Z regulation").
• Process Focus: Be ready to explain your step-by-step design process, from client consultation to final documentation.
• Relevance: Tailor your examples to highlight experience relevant to Alectra's operations and the specific requirements of this Design Technologist role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical depth, a proactive approach to safety and compliance, strong stakeholder management capabilities, and alignment with Alectra's operational values. Be ready to deep-dive into specific project experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Technologist position:

• Submit your application through the provided careers page link on jobs.dayforcehcm.com.
• Tailor your resume: Highlight your 5+ years of experience in utility design, specifically mentioning your proficiency with CADD and GIS software, and any experience with overhead/underground distribution systems up to 44kV. Emphasize your understanding of relevant codes and standards (ESA, CSA, OEB).
• Prepare your portfolio discussion: Be ready to articulate your design process, showcase key projects demonstrating your technical skills and problem-solving abilities, and explain how you ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
• Research Alectra Utilities: Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, services, and recent projects. Understand their commitment to safety and innovation in the energy sector.
• Practice behavioral and technical questions: Prepare specific examples from your experience that align with the responsibilities and qualifications outlined, focusing on your ability to manage projects, communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and solve complex design challenges.

⚠️ 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. The mention of "PWU" suggests internal candidates within that bargaining unit may have priority consideration.