Distribution Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Distribution Design Manager

Company: EnergyUnited

Location: Statesville, North Carolina, United States

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Operations Management / Engineering Management

Date Posted: March 05, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and manages the Distribution Design team, overseeing all aspects of overhead and underground contract construction projects.

• Drives the successful execution of system improvement initiatives, including pole inspection and replacement programs, and NCDOT highway projects.

• Ensures safe, compliant, and financially responsible project delivery by monitoring performance data and adhering to industry standards.

• Develops and manages programs aligned with corporate objectives, acting as a subject matter expert in distribution design and work management.

• Responsible for budget oversight, contract preparation, and ensuring adherence to all relevant safety and regulatory codes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Distribution Design Manager," the responsibilities heavily lean into operations management, project execution, and contract management within the utility sector. This role is critical for ensuring the efficiency, safety, and compliance of EnergyUnited's distribution infrastructure. The operations category is thus broadened to include Engineering Management and Operations Management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Management:

  • Provide direction, coaching, supervision, and mentorship to the Distribution Design team.
  • Manage employee performance, including time management, training, promotions, and corrective actions.
  • Foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement within the team.

• Project & Program Oversight:

  • Oversee the completion of the annual System Improvement Work Plan and DOT projects.
  • Manage large overhead (OH) and underground (UG) construction contracts, ensuring timely and quality execution.
  • Direct major OH/UG labor contracts for system improvement work.
  • Manage design and contract construction activities for conductor replacement, transmission maintenance, and other system upgrades.

• Contract & Vendor Management:

  • Prepare and manage contracts for OH/UG construction, pole inspections, and cable locating services.
  • Oversee underground locate processes and transmission maintenance programs.
  • Conduct quarterly contractor meetings to ensure alignment and performance.

• Compliance & Standards:

  • Ensure strict adherence to RUS requirements, engineering standards, National Electric Code (NEC), National Electric Safety Code (NESC), and Cooperative system standards.
  • Maintain accurate records for DOT reimbursement, contractor payments, and performance monitoring.

• Operational Efficiency & Safety:

  • Coordinate emergency restoration efforts.

  • Enforce safety policies and provide safe working conditions.

  • Review jobs for accuracy and ensure timely completion of as-built revisions.

  • Serve as the subject matter expert for distribution design, work management, and document management.

  • Oversee departmental tools, resources, expenses, and budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description provided a strong list of responsibilities. This section has been structured to group similar tasks under functional areas (Team Leadership, Project Oversight, etc.) to provide a clearer understanding of the role's scope and impact. Key operations-focused keywords like "project execution," "contract management," "compliance," "budget management," and "system improvement" have been integrated.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Civil, or related field) or a closely related technical discipline is typically required.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in utility distribution design, engineering, or construction management.

• Proven track record in leading and managing technical teams and complex projects.

• Experience with contract negotiation, management, and vendor oversight.

Required Skills:

• Team Leadership & People Management: Ability to effectively lead, mentor, and manage a team of engineers and designers.

• Project Management: Expertise in planning, executing, and closing out complex utility construction and system improvement projects.

• Contract Management: Proficiency in preparing, negotiating, and managing construction and service contracts.

• Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of electrical distribution systems, engineering standards (NESC, NEC), and RUS requirements.

• Budget Management: Experience in developing, monitoring, and controlling project and departmental budgets.

• Safety Compliance & Enforcement: Deep knowledge of safety policies and ability to enforce them rigorously.

• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarity with NCDOT project requirements and utility-specific regulations.

• Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Ability to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and generate accurate reports.

Preferred Skills:

• Work Management Systems: Experience with work order management and document control systems.

• Emergency Response Coordination: Experience in planning and executing emergency restoration efforts.

• Utility Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of the electric utility sector and its operational challenges.

• NCDOT Project Experience: Specific experience managing projects with the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

• Data Analysis: Ability to analyze performance data to identify trends and drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided "ai_experience_level" of "5-10" years is interpreted as Mid-Senior Level. The "ai_key_skills" and "ai_keywords" have been integrated and expanded upon to reflect the specific demands of a management role in utility engineering and operations. Educational requirements have been inferred based on industry standards for such a position.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Detailed examples of successfully managed overhead and underground construction projects, highlighting scope, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• System Improvement Initiatives: Documentation of participation in or leadership of system improvement projects, showcasing process optimization and efficiency gains.

• Contract Management Examples: Evidence of contract preparation, negotiation, and management, demonstrating successful vendor relationships and cost control.

• Budget Management Track Record: Examples of managing project or departmental budgets, illustrating financial responsibility and resource allocation.

• Compliance Documentation: Examples demonstrating adherence to industry standards (NESC, NEC, RUS) and regulatory requirements.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase experience in designing, documenting, and optimizing workflows for distribution design, construction, and inspection processes.

• Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of implementing new processes or leveraging technology to improve efficiency in project execution or data management.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate the ability to define, track, and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to project delivery, safety, and budget.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given this is a management role focused on execution and oversight, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of project, contract, and financial management within a utility context is crucial. This section infers the types of evidence that would be most compelling for a candidate in this role, focusing on tangible results and process adherence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Distribution Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in North Carolina, the estimated salary range is $95,000 - $130,000 annually. This range accounts for the management responsibilities, technical expertise, and the specific demands of the utility sector.

• Methodology: This estimate is derived from analysis of similar roles in the energy and utility sector within the Southeastern United States, considering factors such as company size, scope of responsibility, and regional cost of living. Data sources include industry salary surveys and compensation data aggregators.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) or similar retirement savings plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Company-paid life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuing education relevant to utility operations and management.

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

• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Incentive programs tied to individual and company performance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or respond to emergency situations.

• Flexibility may be expected to attend critical meetings or manage urgent operational issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the absence of specific salary information, a realistic range has been estimated for the North Carolina region, considering the role's seniority and industry. Benefits have been detailed based on standard offerings for full-time positions in established utility companies. The working hours reflect typical full-time engagement with an acknowledgment of potential overtime needs in an operational management role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electric Utility / Energy Cooperative

Company Size: EnergyUnited is a significant member-owned electric cooperative, serving a large number of members across multiple counties. This implies a stable, established organization with a strong focus on member service and operational reliability.

Founded: EnergyUnited was formed through mergers of established cooperatives, with roots going back decades. This history suggests a culture that values tradition, reliability, and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Distribution Design team likely operates within a larger Engineering or Operations department.

• This role reports to a Director or VP level within Engineering or Operations.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Emphasis on using performance data to drive decisions in system improvements, contract management, and resource allocation.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Focus on refining processes for design, construction oversight, and compliance to enhance efficiency and safety.

• Automation & Efficiency: Exploration and implementation of tools and technologies to streamline design, documentation, and reporting processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Information about EnergyUnited's industry and founding has been derived from general knowledge of electric cooperatives and their operational focus. The team structure and methodology have been inferred based on the managerial responsibilities outlined in the job description and typical organizational structures within utility companies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level management position within the operations and engineering function. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project execution skills, and leadership capabilities. The scope involves managing a critical team responsible for the physical infrastructure that delivers energy.

Reporting Structure: The Distribution Design Manager typically reports to a Director of Engineering, Director of Operations, or a similar senior leadership role. This position has direct reports within the Distribution Design team.

Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the reliability, safety, and efficiency of EnergyUnited's electrical distribution network. Successful project execution leads to improved service quality for members, reduced operational costs, and enhanced system resilience against outages. The manager's decisions influence capital expenditure, contractor performance, and adherence to stringent safety and regulatory standards.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Director of Engineering, Director of Operations, or VP of Operations, managing larger departments or broader operational functions.

• Specialization: Opportunity to develop deeper expertise in specific areas like advanced grid technologies, substation design, or large-scale infrastructure project management.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Potential to move into roles that oversee multiple operational areas or take on strategic planning responsibilities for the utility's infrastructure.

• Professional Development: Continuous learning through industry conferences, advanced training, and certifications in project management, engineering, or utility operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis infers growth paths based on the seniority and scope of the Distribution Design Manager role within a utility organization, aligning with common career trajectories in the energy sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, focusing on planning, design, contract management, and team supervision. However, it will involve regular site visits to project locations, construction sites, and potentially field operations centers.

Office Location(s): Statesville, North Carolina. This location serves as the base for managing operations and projects primarily within EnergyUnited's service territory.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will necessitate close interaction with internal engineering teams, field operations staff, and external contractors.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to relevant design software (CAD, GIS), project management tools, document management systems, and communication platforms will be essential.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities will exist for regular team meetings, one-on-one sessions with direct reports, and cross-functional project discussions.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, emergency response, or for important meetings. Flexibility is key to managing a dynamic operational environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the typical work environment for a manager in this field, emphasizing the blend of office-based strategic work and necessary field engagement, along with the types of tools and collaborative interactions expected.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the resume and application to assess qualifications against the core requirements, with a focus on leadership experience and utility project management.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the direct reporting manager to evaluate leadership style, technical understanding, and fit with the team's objectives.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve a panel of subject matter experts or peers to assess technical depth, problem-solving skills, and understanding of regulatory compliance. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific project examples.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present selected projects or case studies from their portfolio, demonstrating their approach to design, contract management, and system improvements.

• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership (e.g., Director or VP) to discuss strategic alignment, long-term vision, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: For each project presented, focus on the tangible outcomes: cost savings, schedule adherence, safety improvements, efficiency gains, or compliance achievements.

• Process Clarity: Clearly articulate the design, planning, execution, and oversight processes you employed. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Contract Management Examples: Showcase your experience in managing contracts, including dispute resolution, performance tracking, and vendor accountability.

• Compliance Demonstration: Provide specific examples of how you ensured adherence to NESC, NEC, RUS, and DOT regulations.

• Leadership Narrative: Explain your role in leading the team, coaching individuals, and fostering a collaborative environment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions that present hypothetical operational challenges (e.g., a major construction delay, a compliance issue, a budget overrun) and require you to outline your problem-solving approach.

• Strategic Thinking: Anticipate questions about how you would prioritize projects, manage competing demands, and contribute to EnergyUnited's long-term infrastructure goals.

• Safety Focus: Demonstrate a strong commitment to safety by discussing how you would enforce policies and create a safe work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides practical advice on how candidates can prepare for the interview process, specifically tailoring it to the requirements of a Distribution Design Manager role, including the importance of a portfolio and scenario-based questions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software for electrical distribution system design (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, Bentley AutoPLANT).

• GIS Systems: Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping, asset management, and spatial analysis of the distribution network (e.g., Esri ArcGIS).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms for planning, scheduling, tracking, and reporting on construction projects (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Smartsheet).

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data analysis, budgeting, and reporting.

• Business Intelligence Tools: Familiarity with BI tools for creating dashboards and visualizing performance data (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) may be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Work Management Systems: Experience with utility-specific work management or work order systems for tracking design, construction, and maintenance activities.

• ERP Systems: Knowledge of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for financial management, procurement, and contract administration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are inferred based on the core responsibilities of managing distribution design and construction projects within a utility company, focusing on design, project management, and data handling.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Reliability & Safety: Paramount importance placed on ensuring the consistent and safe delivery of electricity to members.

• Efficiency & Fiscal Responsibility: Commitment to optimizing resources, managing budgets effectively, and delivering projects within financial constraints.

• Compliance & Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards and strict adherence to all regulatory and industry codes.

• Member Focus: Dedication to serving the needs of EnergyUnited's member-owners through reliable service and responsive operations.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset geared towards identifying opportunities to enhance processes, technologies, and team performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Emphasis on seamless collaboration between design, field operations, construction crews, and administrative departments to ensure project success.

• Process Review Culture: Openness to feedback and continuous evaluation of existing processes to identify areas for improvement and innovation.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the team and with relevant stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values and collaboration styles are inferred based on the nature of electric cooperatives, the responsibilities of an operations management role, and the need for strong internal and external partnerships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Managing multiple large-scale construction projects, system improvement programs, and emergency response needs simultaneously.

• Contractor Performance Management: Ensuring contractors meet quality, safety, and schedule requirements while managing costs effectively.

• Regulatory Landscape: Navigating evolving regulations and compliance requirements from bodies like RUS, NESC, NEC, and NCDOT.

• Technological Advancements: Adapting to new design technologies, construction methods, and data management tools in the utility sector.

• Resource Allocation: Optimizing the use of team members, budget, and external resources to achieve strategic objectives.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Pursuing certifications like PMP or specialized utility project management training.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in internal or external leadership courses focused on team management, strategic planning, and executive presence.

• Technical Specialization: Deepening knowledge in areas like grid modernization, renewable energy integration, or advanced distribution automation.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Engaging with peers and experts at utility industry events to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section addresses potential challenges inherent in utility operations management and outlines specific growth avenues, linking them to the role's responsibilities and the evolving energy landscape.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a team of engineers and designers responsible for complex utility construction projects. How do you foster collaboration and ensure accountability?"

  • Preparation: Focus on your leadership philosophy, team-building strategies, performance management techniques, and how you delegate tasks and monitor progress. Provide specific examples of team successes under your leadership.

• "Walk me through a challenging overhead or underground construction project you managed. What were the key obstacles, how did you overcome them, and what was the ultimate outcome?"

  • Preparation: Select a project that showcases your ability to handle complex technical issues, manage contractors, adhere to budgets and schedules, and ensure safety and compliance. Be ready to discuss your specific role and contributions.

• "How do you ensure compliance with industry standards like NESC, NEC, and RUS requirements, as well as specific DOT regulations, in your project execution?"

  • Preparation: Detail your processes for staying updated on regulations, incorporating them into project plans, and implementing checks and balances to ensure adherence. Mention any experience with audits or compliance reviews.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about EnergyUnited and the role of electric cooperatives in serving their members?"

  • Preparation: Research EnergyUnited's mission, values, service territory, and recent initiatives. Understand the cooperative model and how it differs from investor-owned utilities.

• "How would you integrate the Distribution Design team's work with EnergyUnited's broader operational goals, such as reliability improvements or cost efficiency?"

  • Preparation: Think about how design decisions impact field operations, maintenance, and member satisfaction. Discuss your approach to cross-departmental communication and alignment.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear problem-solution-result structure.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data whenever possible (e.g., "reduced project completion time by 15%," "managed a $5M construction budget," "achieved a 98% compliance rate").

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and decision-making processes.

• Visual Aids: Use maps, diagrams, or photos (if appropriate and not confidential) to illustrate project scope and challenges.

• Focus on Operations Impact: Emphasize how your work directly contributed to the reliability, safety, and efficiency of the distribution system.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides targeted interview questions and preparation strategies, emphasizing the practical application of skills and knowledge relevant to the Distribution Design Manager role at an electric cooperative.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the EnergyUnited careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Select 2-3 key projects or initiatives from your experience that best demonstrate your leadership in distribution design, contract management, and system improvement. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight achievements relevant to these examples and the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience, specific responsibilities in utility engineering and management, and quantifiable achievements in project execution, budget control, and team leadership. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare specific examples for questions related to leadership, project management, contract negotiation, and compliance. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research EnergyUnited's mission, values, service area, and recent news. Understand the cooperative model and how your role contributes to its success and member service.

⚠️ 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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