Application Guide

How to Apply for Design Project Manager, Internal Design

at Portland General Electric

🏢 About Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric is unique as Oregon's largest electric utility with a dual mission of powering lives while actively combating climate change through cleaner energy solutions. The company offers the opportunity to work on tangible infrastructure projects that directly impact communities while contributing to a sustainable energy future in the Pacific Northwest.

About This Role

This Design Project Manager internship involves managing multiple utility infrastructure projects (streetlighting, residential connections, pole replacements, etc.) from design through execution, ensuring reliable construction designs and customer connections. You'll directly impact PGE's ability to deliver safe, cost-effective electrical service while gaining hands-on experience with real utility projects.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve using design software to create technical drawings for a residential connection project, coordinating with construction teams on pole replacement timelines, reviewing material specifications for cost-effectiveness, and serving as the point of contact for customer questions about service requirements. You'll balance design work with project coordination while ensuring all work meets PGE's safety and reliability standards.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Portland General Electric Is Looking For

  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in engineering technology, CAD, or related field with coursework/projects involving technical design
  • Has some exposure to utility operations, construction projects, or technical design work (even through coursework or personal projects)
  • Demonstrates ability to manage multiple tasks independently while following specific standards and regulations
  • Shows genuine interest in sustainable energy infrastructure and community-focused utility work

📝 Tips for Applying to Portland General Electric

1

Highlight any experience with design software (AutoCAD, GIS, etc.) and mention specific projects where you created technical drawings or material lists

2

Reference PGE's specific mission phrases like 'combating climate change' and 'cleaner energy future' to show you've researched their values

3

Describe any experience with project coordination or multi-tasking, even from student organizations or group projects

4

Mention familiarity with utility terminology (NESC requirements, tariffs, distribution systems) if you have it, or demonstrate willingness to learn

5

Include your valid driver's license status since field visits to project sites are likely

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your technical design capabilities and experience with design software relevant to utility projects', 'Examples of managing multiple priorities or projects simultaneously with attention to detail', "Why you're specifically interested in utility infrastructure work at PGE versus other design roles", "How your background aligns with PGE's mission of reliable service and climate action"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → PGE's specific sustainability goals and recent clean energy projects in Oregon
  • → The types of infrastructure projects mentioned in the job description (streetlighting, ranch runner, etc.) to understand their scope
  • → Oregon's energy landscape and how utilities are addressing climate change
  • → PGE's community involvement and customer service approach in the Portland area

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a technical design project you've completed from analysis to final specifications
2 How would you prioritize multiple projects at different stages (e.g., streetlighting design vs. pole replacement execution)?
3 What do you know about PGE's current infrastructure projects or sustainability initiatives in Oregon?
4 Describe your experience interpreting technical standards or codes in a project context
5 How would you handle coordinating with multiple departments to fulfill project requirements?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic applications that don't mention utility/energy industry interest
  • Overlooking the technical design aspect and focusing only on general project management
  • Failing to demonstrate how you work independently while following specific standards and codes

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Portland General Electric!

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