The duties of a utility engineer include designing and coordinating the maintenance of electrical utilities and associated power distribution systems. These engineers monitor the efficiency of these systems and identify methods to minimize energy waste. They also perform inspections, performance evaluations, and sunsetting of systems.
To become a utility engineer, you need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited school. Some professionals choose to earn a master's degree in the field for advancement opportunities and a higher salary.
Based on job postings for Utilities & Power Distribution Engineer jobs in the United States from the past year, the average annual salary for a Utility Engineer is $91,886. This is lower than the national average of $118,127 for this occupation.
Utility engineers often have a strong understanding of engineering principles and math. They also need to be able to work well with others and communicate effectively.
Many job postings for this career require utility engineers to have specific skills, such as CAD, civil engineering, and computer programming. This is because utility engineers often design and build infrastructure for industries such as power plants and gas stations.
A utility engineer may be responsible for designing new power stations or determining the long-term payback of a more efficient piece of equipment. He or she also might be involved in the development and implementation of a power plant's compliance standards and safety regulations.
