Entry Level CAD Designer
linkedinCharlotte (NC)
About the role
Day-to-Day Responsibilities:
An Engineering Services firm is seeking a motivated Entry-Level Distribution Designer to join their growing team in the Charlotte, NC area, supporting a major energy provider across the Carolinas. In this role, you will partner closely with experienced engineers and project managers to help design, upgrade, and maintain electrical distribution systems that serve thousands of customers. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career who is eager to build hands-on experience in power utilities and grow within a stable, high-demand industry.
Key responsibilities include:
Design & Drafting: Create and revise power distribution layouts using CAD tools, supporting system improvements, relocations, and new construction projects
Field Collaboration: Conduct field visits to gather data, validate designs, and ensure accuracy between plans and real-world conditions
Project Coordination: Assist in planning and coordinating grid upgrades, maintenance efforts, and infrastructure expansions across North and South Carolina
Permitting & Compliance: Support the preparation and submission of permits and applications, including right-of-way easements, DOT encroachments, and railroad or transmission approvals
Environmental & Regulatory Awareness: Ensure designs align with environmental guidelines and regulatory requirements
Cross-Functional Communication: Work alongside engineers, clients, and external stakeholders to keep projects moving efficiently
This role offers strong exposure to both office-based design work and field operations, making it ideal for someone who enjoys a mix of technical work and hands-on learning. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, adaptable, and driven to develop a long-term career in the utilities or power distribution space.
Must Haves:
BS or AS in Engineering preferred
2-4 years of professional work experience in a similar industry (utilities/telecom/power distribution), if not directly with distribution design
Design software experience
SolidWorks/MicroStation/AutoCAD or any 2D or 3D drafting software experience
Plusses
Experience as AutoCAD drafter/technician in telecom, electrical, or utilities field Internship or Sr. Capstone Project Engineering degree (mechanical, civil, electrical, industrial)
Bachelor's degree in one of the following: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Civil/Industrial Engineering (can be a fresh graduate)
Duke Energy experience Power Distribution experience
Leadership experience
Telecom design experience
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