Special Projects Designer

Kalispell, MT

Full Time

Engineering

Experienced

Special Projects Designer
Application Deadline: 5pm on Friday, July 31, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Oversee software backend for engineering specific software such as StakeOut, AutoCAD, SAG10, and Pole Foreman.
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.
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.
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.
Actively communicate with FEC personnel to discuss project requirements and answer questions. Coordinate and collaborate with FEC crews to complete projects effectively and efficiently.
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.
As requested, accurately compile data for use in studies and provide accurate information for all system records.
Keep up-to-date on technical advancements in the utility industry.
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.
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.
Maintain ongoing communication with supervisor regarding situations requiring immediate attention, problems/concerns, questions, etc.
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.
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.
Able to work 40 hours per week with additional time as required.
Valid Montana Driver’s License and be insurable.
Present a professional personal appearance at all times.
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.
Needs to be a team player and able to work with all types of people.
Must be self-directed and motivated to get things done timely without direct supervision.
Effective verbal and written communications skills and legible handwriting.
Able to adequately pass the job-relevant testing which directly relates to the requirements above.
Able to travel occasionally out-of-area and overnight.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS (Based on an 8 hour work day)

Stand	F (Frequently)
Walk	F (Frequently)
Sit	F (Frequently)
Handling / Grasping	F (Frequently)
Reach Outward	F (Frequently)
Reach Above Shoulder	R (Rarely)
Keyboarding	F (Frequently)
Speaking	F (Frequently)
Vision	F (Frequently)
Hearing	F (Frequently)
Foot or Leg Controls	F (Frequently)
Climb	R (Rarely)
Crawl	R (Rarely)
Squat or Kneel	R (Rarely)
Bend	R (Rarely)
Drive	F (Frequently)

Lift/Carry

10 lbs. or less	O (Occasionally)
11-25 lbs.	R (Rarely)
26-50 lbs.	N (Not Applicable)
51-100 lbs.	N (Not Applicable)
Over 100 lbs.	N (Not Applicable)

Push/Pull

10 lbs. or less	R (Rarely)
11-25 lbs.	R (Rarely)
26-50 lbs.	N (Not Applicable)
51-100 lbs.	N (Not Applicable)

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.

Apply for this position

Required*

First Name*

Last Name*

Email Address*

Phone*

Address*

Resume*

We've received your resume. Click here to update it.

Attach resume or Paste resume

Attach resume as .pdf, .doc, .docx, .odt, .txt, or .rtf (limit 5MB) or Paste resume

Paste your resume here or Attach resume file

Cover Letter*

Who referred you to this position? Enter their first and last name here.

Do you have a valid driver's license?*

Are you willing to relocate?*

What's your highest level of education completed?*

Are you 18 years of age or older?*

Earliest start date?*

Can you work overtime?*

Have you ever been convicted of a felony?*

If “Yes”, you have been convicted of a felony, please explain the circumstances around the conviction:

In 150 characters or fewer, tell us what makes you unique. Try to be creative and say something that will catch our eye!*

150

References: Please enter names and contact information:*

We encourage applicants from outside our area to investigate our housing and rental markets before pursuing this position. Rentals and affordable housing are hard to come by. In order to avoid the situation of offering a position to someone who then finds out they cannot move to the area, we request applicants determine if they are confident they either have housing arranged or can find housing if offered this position. Please confirm your situation. * **

What makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?*

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employer-sponsored work authorization. Do you currently have unrestricted work authorization for the US?* I have unrestricted work authorization now and would NOT require sponsorship.

The following questions are entirely optional.

Invitation for Job Applicants to Self-Identify as a U.S. Veteran

A “disabled veteran” is one of the following:
- a veteran of the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service who is entitled to compensation (or who but for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to compensation) under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; or
- a person who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability.
A “recently separated veteran” means any veteran during the three-year period beginning on the date of such veteran's discharge or release from active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval, or air service.
An “active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran” means a veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service during a war, or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized under the laws administered by the Department of Defense.
An “Armed forces service medal veteran” means a veteran who, while serving on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service, participated in a United States military operation for which an Armed Forces service medal was awarded pursuant to Executive Order 12985.

Veteran status

I IDENTIFY AS ONE OR MORE OF THE CLASSIFICATIONS OF PROTECTED VETERAN LISTED ABOVE
I AM NOT A PROTECTED VETERAN
I DON’T WISH TO ANSWER

Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability

Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability Form CC-305
OMB Control Number 1250-0005
Expires 05/31/2026

Why are you being asked to complete this form?

We are a federal contractor or subcontractor. The law requires us to provide equal employment opportunity to qualified people with disabilities. We have a goal of having at least 7% of our workers as people with disabilities. The law says we must measure our progress towards this goal. To do this, we must ask applicants and employees if they have a disability or have ever had one. People can become disabled, so we need to ask this question at least every five years.

Completing this form is voluntary, and we hope that you will choose to do so. Your answer is confidential. No one who makes hiring decisions will see it. Your decision to complete the form and your answer will not harm you in any way. If you want to learn more about the law or this form, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) website at www.dol.gov/ofccp.

How do you know if you have a disability?

A disability is a condition that substantially limits one or more of your “major life activities.” If you have or have ever had such a condition, you are a person with a disability. Disabilities include, but are not limited to:

Alcohol or other substance use disorder (not currently using drugs illegally)
Autoimmune disorder, for example, lupus, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV/AIDS
Blind or low vision
Cancer (past or present)
Cardiovascular or heart disease
Celiac disease
Cerebral palsy
Deaf or serious difficulty hearing
Diabetes
Disfigurement, for example, disfigurement caused by burns, wounds, accidents, or congenital disorders
Epilepsy or other seizure disorder
Gastrointestinal disorders, for example, Crohn's Disease, irritable bowel syndrome
Intellectual or developmental disability
Mental health conditions, for example, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD
Missing limbs or partially missing limbs
Mobility impairment, benefiting from the use of a wheelchair, scooter, walker, leg brace(s) and/or other supports
Nervous system condition, for example, migraine headaches, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS)
Neurodivergence, for example, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, other learning disabilities
Partial or complete paralysis (any cause)
Pulmonary or respiratory conditions, for example, tuberculosis, asthma, emphysema
Short stature (dwarfism)
Traumatic brain injury

Please check one of the boxes below:

YES, I HAVE A DISABILITY, OR HAVE HAD ONE IN THE PAST NO, I DO NOT HAVE A DISABILITY AND HAVE NOT HAD ONE IN THE PAST I DO NOT WANT TO ANSWER

PUBLIC BURDEN STATEMENT: According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. This survey should take about 5 minutes to complete.

You must enter your name and date
Name	Date

Human Check*

Submit Application