Designer 1/CAD Technician – Transmission (Mid-Senior Level)
Fully Remote
3-6-month Contract-to-Hire
Pay Scale: $25/hr.-$42/hr.
About the Opportunity:
NEI is seeking an experienced Designer and/or CAD Technician to support a growing portfolio of utility and renewable energy projects. Due to increased project volume and incoming client demand, the team is expanding its design capabilities and looking for a self-sufficient professional who can quickly contribute with minimal ramp-up time.
Position Summary:
The CAD Technician / Designer will be responsible for developing engineering drawings, translating engineering markups into construction-ready design packages, and supporting utility transmission line projects through drafting and modeling activities. The team is seeking someone with approximately 5-10+ years of relevant experience who can independently manage assignments, understand utility design standards, and contribute immediately without significant oversight or training.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and modify engineering drawings using AutoCAD and Autodesk design tools
Create detailed design packages based on engineering markups and project requirements
Perform drafting support for transmission and utility infrastructure projects
Assist with PLS-CADD modeling activities for transmission line design projects
Support early-stage project design development under engineering oversight
Incorporate revisions and design updates throughout project lifecycles
Collaborate with engineers, designers, and project teams to ensure accurate deliverables
Maintain drawing quality, standards compliance, and documentation accuracy
Support renewable energy and utility-related project initiatives
Work independently while managing multiple project priorities
Required Qualifications:
5+ years of CAD drafting and design experience
Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD
Experience using Autodesk design software
Hands-on experience with PLS-CADD (required)
Experience supporting utility, transmission, power delivery, or related infrastructure projects
Ability to interpret engineering markups and develop detailed design drawings
Strong understanding of drafting standards and engineering documentation
Ability to work independently with minimal direction
Strong communication and collaboration skills in a remote environment
Preferred Qualifications:
Utility transmission line design experience
Experience with wood pole and steel pole transmission projects
Structure spotting experience
Exposure to renewable energy projects
Understanding of power delivery engineering workflows
Familiarity with early-stage transmission design packages Why This Role Stands Out
Clear path to grow into a Transmission Designer role (especially with PLS-CADD exposure)
Exposure to high-voltage infrastructure and renewable energy projects
Work on large-scale, impactful projects supporting grid expansion and data center growth
Strong, collaborative team environment with experienced engineers
Stable and growing project pipeline