DISTRIBUTION DESIGNER – Up to 2 positions
Asset Management & Engineering
Office Staff Collective Agreement
Group VII: $35.7548 to $51.0783/hour (May 1, 2026, rates)
SYNERGY NORTH CORPORATION distributes electricity to approximately 50,000 residential customers and 6,000 commercial customers located in Thunder Bay and Kenora, Ontario. It is our mission to provide outstanding energy services in a safe, reliable, and trusted manner to our communities in order to power people’s lives. To do this, we are continuing to build on our strong team of professionals and have up to two full-time, permanent Distribution Designer positions in Thunder Bay, Ontario. SYNERGY NORTH invests in the safety and wellbeing of our employees. We provide a robust training program a comprehensive benefits package.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the general direction and guidance of the Engineering Supervisor or designate, this position is responsible for planning, design, and coordination of distribution system enhancements, expansions, connections, rebuilds and maintaining accurate electrical distribution system records and mapping.
· Prepares Project Work Packages including cost estimates, material lists, commissioning procedures and design/layout drawings and/or work instructions for SYNERGY NORTH capital and maintenance projects including customer driven projects.
· Obtains all required approvals from customers, developers, consultants, municipality, other utilities, railway, MTO, etc., to complete assigned projects.
· Initiates work order openings, closures, and project reviews for all SYNERGY NORTH capital and maintenance projects.
· Monitors costs associated with all assigned projects.
· Liaises with customers requiring an expansion, new customer connection, or upgrade to discuss matters related to the installation and removal of electrical services by initiating application, discussing service requirements and location, explaining standards, policies, procedures, and/or related costs.
· Liaises with Third Party Joint Use applicants to review their designs, ensures that they meet the requirements of Ontario regulations, and issues the required permits.
· Prepares Offers to Connect for Expansions/Enhancements and new customer connections. Advises and works with Finance Department in the preparation of any required Economic Evaluations related to the Offers to Connect.
· Performs surveying and staking for the installation of SYNERGY NORTH plant, consulting with City survey crews and professional land surveyors.
· Coordinates or performs all necessary field locations and inspections of SYNERGY NORTH, contractor, and customer-installed equipment and materials to ensure all relevant standards and regulations are adhered to, and any problems are corrected. Ensures that all documentation for design, inspection, and auditing is prepared and maintained as per ESA requirements.
· Prepares scope of work, assists in pre-qualification and qualification process for contractors, and performs contract monitoring for SYNERGY NORTH capital and maintenance projects.
· Ensures SYNERGY NORTH’s Conditions of Service, Standards, and Procedures are applied accurately and consistently for all projects.
· Coordinates and liaises with other utilities, the Power Line Department, contractors, and the public.
· Performs other such related duties as may be assigned.
Mandatory Qualifications:
· Diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
· Registered as a Certified Engineering Technologist (C.E.T.) in Ontario nation, or eligibility to obtain the designation or approved equivalent
· Demonstrated proficiency in the use of computers, including Microsoft Office applications.
· Demonstrated commitment to safety, continuous improvement, customer service, and teamwork.
· Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and verbal and written communication skills.
· Basic surveying and field measurement skills.
· Must be competent within the meaning of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Preferred Qualifications:
· At least three years of experience in electrical utility, distribution system, or engineering design work.
· Demonstrated pole line analysis skills, including experience with pole analysis and conductor sag software.
· Direct experience within an electrical utility, preferably in an electrical distribution environment.
· Demonstrated drafting skills, including experience with AutoCAD and GIS design tools.
· Working knowledge of accounting principles, including cost estimating, budgeting, and job cost control.
· Experience working safely around high voltage equipment.
· Strong understanding of electrical and power engineering theory and utility design principles.
· Strong knowledge of applicable electrical legislation, codes, standards, and utility construction practices.
· Strong knowledge of construction techniques, procedures, applicable construction legislation, and regulatory requirements.
· Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, technical specifications, and design standards.
Conditions of Employment:
· Obtain and maintain the CET Designation (or equivalent)
· Must have and maintain a valid Class G driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.
· Must be willing and able to work overtime, remote, out of town and travel as required.
· Must be capable of working independently in the field.
· Must be fit for duty and able to safely perform the essential duties of this safety sensitive position.
· Must successfully complete pre-employment screening requirements, including a Police Information Check and Drug and Alcohol testing.
Applicants are invited to email a single PDF document containing their resume and cover letter to [email protected]
Visit synergynorth.ca/careers for a complete position description. Applications will be reviewed starting August 7, 2026, and will continue to be accepted until position is filled. This position is currently vacant, artificial intelligence may be used in the screening process.
TESTING To confirm ability for the position, applicants may be required to take tests related to the job requirements and duties of this position,which may be conducted by an independent third party.
Pay: $35.75-$51.07 per hour
Work Location: In person
