Application Guide

How to Apply for Underground Transmission Designer - (Remote U.S.)

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure leader that builds sustainable legacies through innovative energy, environmental, and transportation solutions. Its Power Delivery team is at the forefront of the energy transition, delivering critical underground transmission, distribution, and grid modernization projects for utilities across North America. Working here means contributing to impactful, large-scale projects while enjoying the flexibility of a remote-first culture.

About This Role

As an Underground Transmission Designer, you will provide technical design support for utility-scale transmission projects from concept through construction. You'll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, clients, and project managers to ensure technical excellence and client satisfaction on projects that expand grid capacity and integrate renewable energy. This remote role offers the chance to solve complex engineering challenges while mentoring others and helping grow AECOM's Energy practice.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing design drawings, running calculations for cable ampacity or conduit sizing, and coordinating with engineers and project managers via virtual meetings. You might also mentor junior designers, respond to client requests, and ensure project deliverables meet quality standards and deadlines. The remote setup allows for flexible scheduling, but collaboration is key to success.

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • 5+ years of experience in underground transmission or distribution design, with proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation) and knowledge of industry standards (e.g., NESC, IEEE, ASCE).
  • Proven ability to support projects from feasibility through construction, including routing, conduit/duct bank design, cable pulling calculations, and grounding systems.
  • Strong communication skills to coordinate with clients, engineers, and construction teams, and a collaborative mindset for remote teamwork.
  • Experience with renewable energy integration or grid modernization projects is a plus, as is a PE license or EIT certification.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific underground transmission design projects, including scope, budget, and your role in delivering them.

2

Showcase proficiency in design tools and software mentioned in the job description (e.g., AutoCAD, PLS-CADD, CYMCAP) with concrete examples.

3

Emphasize any remote work experience and your ability to collaborate effectively across distributed teams.

4

Include metrics that demonstrate project impact, such as cost savings, efficiency improvements, or successful completion under tight deadlines.

5

Mention any experience with AECOM's key clients or similar utility-scale projects to show alignment with their portfolio.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your hands-on experience designing underground transmission systems and familiarity with industry codes and standards.', 'A specific project where you contributed to grid modernization or renewable integration, highlighting your technical and problem-solving skills.', 'Your ability to work independently in a remote setting while maintaining strong communication and collaboration with stakeholders.', "Your interest in AECOM's mission and how your background aligns with their energy practice and sustainable infrastructure goals."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → AECOM's recent energy projects, especially in underground transmission and grid modernization, to understand their project scale and client base.
  • → AECOM's company values and sustainability initiatives, particularly their 'Sustainable Legacies' strategy, to align your answers with their culture.
  • → The Power Delivery team's structure and key leaders to understand who you might work with and how the team operates.
  • → Industry trends in underground transmission, such as HVDC technology or smart grid innovations, to demonstrate forward-thinking knowledge.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through your design process for an underground transmission line from routing to construction support.
2 How do you ensure compliance with codes and standards such as NESC and IEEE in your designs?
3 Describe a time you resolved a complex technical issue during a project. What was your approach?
4 How do you manage client relationships and expectations when project requirements change?
5 What experience do you have with renewable energy integration or grid modernization projects?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic resume that doesn't highlight underground transmission design experience or specific software skills.
  • Failing to demonstrate remote work capability or experience collaborating with distributed teams.
  • Neglecting to research AECOM's projects or values, leading to a cover letter that could apply to any company.

📅 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!

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Good luck with your application to AECOM!

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