Special Projects Designer
Application Deadline: 5pm on Friday, August 07, 2026
Non-Union, Exempt, Full-Time
Grade 11, $88,795 - $116,625 DOE
Location: Kalispell, MT (Onsite)
All Offers of Employment Conditioned on Pre-employment Drug Screening and Background Check and are Subject to a One-Year Probationary Period of Employment.
POSITION SUMMARY
Responsible for project management and oversite of joint use new applications, joint use audit, overhead to underground conversions, underground cable replacement, and certain engineering software products. Responsible for the complete design, cost estimate, and project management of residential subdivisions over 50 lots, commercial subdivisions, distribution and transmission projects, system upgrades, and highway relocation projects.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS STATEMENT
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Upon request, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS-
Oversee and direct Joint Use new application process. Delegate reviews, review and sign approval letters, field comments from joint use applicants, create Make Ready Work invoices, direct contractors as needed, and oversee subconsultant support for review.
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Oversee Joint Use audit and violations. Develop and direct process to enforce joint use agreements, to include enforcement to address and correct violations and validate progress. Develop and direct ongoing program to continually audit joint use attachments system wide ensuring accurate records.
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Develop and direct program for overhead to underground conversions. Develop priority matrix to prioritize highest impact jobs. Delegate jobs based on defined priority metrics, oversee progress.
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Develop and direct program for underground cable replacement and SCG overhead reconductor projects. Develop priority matrix and monitor budget to ensure continuous progress of the program. Delegate design to best resource to complete staking. Oversee and direct subcontractors as needed for design and direct excavation contractors to complete work.
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Oversee software backend for engineering specific software such as StakeOut, AutoCAD, SAG10, and Pole Foreman.
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Assist in annual budget preparation, with preliminary design, narratives, and budgetary costs on capital projects. With input from Operations and priorities from underground cable replacement, overhead to underground conversion, and reconductor programs, identify system improvements and rebuilds that are not in the Work Plan but need consideration. Delegate and direct program to complete work within a timely manner and within budget.
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Demonstrate ability in the following: effectively utilize personal computers and CAD systems; federal, state and local codes dealing with utility operations; able to collect and organize data from a variety of sources; able to research alternative courses of action beyond prescribed guidelines; work effectively with associates, contractors and members; prefer ability to read & interpret electrical engineering specifications.
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Meet and discuss projects with members, prepare designs, stake, legally obtain easements, prepare cost estimates, and oversee work completed by members and contractors for pole change outs, meter pedestal conversions, cable replacements, and system improvement identified in the system survey.
- Work with FEC contractors by preparing job specific drawings, assisting by answering questions, assuring that jobs are built to FEC standards, and reviewing contractor bills.
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Actively communicate with FEC personnel to discuss project requirements and answer questions. Coordinate and collaborate with FEC crews to complete projects effectively and efficiently.
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Assist member(s) with technical problems if possible or ask for assistance. When appropriate, refers member(s) to an outside source (i.e.: electricians, state, etc.). Follow-up with members to ensure the problem was satisfactorily resolved.
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As requested, accurately compile data for use in studies and provide accurate information for all system records.
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Keep up-to-date on technical advancements in the utility industry.
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When traveling throughout FEC territory, is aware of the condition of the system. When a problem or hazard is noticed, accurately complete a service order and/or communicate with the appropriate FEC department.
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Always assist members/vendors/employees and the general public in a courteous and professional manner ensuring their continued satisfaction with FEC. Work in harmony and show respect to all fellow employees in order to promote an effective and pleasant working environment.
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Maintain ongoing communication with supervisor regarding situations requiring immediate attention, problems/concerns, questions, etc.
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In pursuit of zero workplace incidents, promotes and maintains a positive safety culture while adhering to all applicable policies outlined in the Safety Manual. Reports all incidents and potential safety hazards in a timely manner to supervisor or Safety Coordinator.
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Become familiar with and keep current with FEC objectives and applicable policies.
- Performs other duties as assigned by management applying the same skill and enthusiasm as with regularly assigned responsibilities.
MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Associate’s degree in general engineering, science, mathematics, or specialized electric utility courses preferred.
Job Related Experience: 10 years electric utility experience in operations/engineering with emphasis on design/staking, multi-service subdivision installations, and major system upgrades, additions, and relocation.
Must have a thorough knowledge of FEC Specifications, Service Requirements and NESC Requirements. Exercise knowledge of practical construction methods.
Must have strong communication skills as the position is the primary contact for joint users, subconsultants, and excavation contractors.
Supervision: No Experience Supervising Required
Computer Skills: Must be proficient on a computer and be well versed in Microsoft operating systems relating to the Utility industry. Must have experience in staking software, pole analysis, and AutoCad. Expected to have knowledge or be trained in running the backend of the engineering software such as StakeOut, AutoCAD, SAG10, and Pole Foreman.
Certificates & Licenses: Certification in staking engineering preferred.
Other Qualifications:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
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Able to work 40 hours per week with additional time as required.
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Valid Montana Driver’s License and be insurable.
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Present a professional personal appearance at all times.
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Demonstrated ability in the following: effectively utilize personal computers and CAD systems; federal, state and local codes dealing with utility operations; able to collect and organize data from a variety of sources; able to research alternative courses of action beyond prescribed guidelines; work effectively with associates, contractors and members; prefer ability to read & interpret electrical engineering specifications.
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Needs to be a team player and able to work with all types of people.
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Must be self-directed and motivated to get things done timely without direct supervision.
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Effective verbal and written communications skills and legible handwriting.
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Able to adequately pass the job-relevant testing which directly relates to the requirements above.
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Able to travel occasionally out-of-area and overnight.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS (Based on an 8 hour work day)
Handling / Grasping
F (Frequently)
Reach Outward
F (Frequently)
Reach Above Shoulder
R (Rarely)
Keyboarding
F (Frequently)
Foot or Leg Controls
F (Frequently)
Squat or Kneel
R (Rarely)
Lift/Carry
10 lbs. or less
O (Occasionally)
26-50 lbs.
N (Not Applicable)
51-100 lbs.
N (Not Applicable)
Over 100 lbs.
N (Not Applicable)
10 lbs. or less
R (Rarely)
26-50 lbs.
N (Not Applicable)
51-100 lbs.
N (Not Applicable)
Activity is not applicable to this position
R (Rarely) Position requires this activity up to 5% of the time (0 - 2 hrs./day)
O (Occasionally) Position requires this activity up to 6% - 33% of the time (2 - 4 hrs./day)
F (Frequently) Position requires this activity from 34% - 66% of the time (4 - 6 hrs./day)
C (Constantly) Position requires this activity more than 66% of the time (8+ hrs./day)
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Will be working mostly outdoors in all types of weather and terrain.
As a cooperative, Flathead Electric is owned by the members who get their power from our Co-op, which includes everyone in the Flathead, Libby and Cooke City areas of Montana. That means the employees are members and own the cooperative too. We treat every member like family and friends, because they are.
For 85 years, Flathead Electric Cooperative has been an employer of choice in Northwest Montana. As part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), Flathead Electric provides competitive pay, exceptional benefits including a retirement plan, a matching 401K, and generous health/dental/vision/disability insurance. We try to incorporate fun into our workdays, host employee family events throughout the year and provide opportunities for our employees to help the Board of Trustees shape the future of the Co-op by participating on exploratory advisory groups an, innovative pilot projects.
We believe in hiring the best and promoting from within. Flathead Electric provides on the job training and offers an education reimbursement program for those employees wishing to better their education to pursue opportunities at our Co-op. Flathead Electric is an equal opportunity employer. Flathead Electric Cooperative does not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, marital status, political belief, physical or mental disability, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, or retaliation.
Some positions are “safety sensitive,” some require a CDL, and all have access to confidential member information at times. Therefore, we screen our applicants thoroughly. All employment offers are contingent upon passing a limited background check and a drug screening appropriate for the position. Once hired, employment is subject to a one-year probationary period, during which time employment may be terminated with or without cause and with or without notice.
By submitting this application, the applicant affirms that information provided is true and complete information, no requested information has been concealed, and Flathead Electric Cooperative is authorized to contact references provided for employment reference checks. If any information provided is found to be untrue, or concealed, employment may be denied or terminated.
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