24th August, 2026
Distribution & Standards Engineer III–V | Power Delivery
This role may also be known as: Electrical Standards Engineer, T&D Standards Engineer, Power Delivery Standards Engineer, Utility Compliance Engineer
The Opportunity
If you've ever wanted a seat at the table where engineering standards actually get written — not just followed — this is that seat. This role sits at the center of a Power Delivery organization, responsible for developing, maintaining, and continuously improving the standards, specifications, and technical practices that govern how distribution and substation infrastructure gets designed, built, and operated.
You'll work across a genuinely broad equipment scope: distribution transformers, switches, and capacitor banks; substation breakers up to 230kV; control systems; station battery systems; and switchgear. You'll interpret and apply industry codes like IEEE, ANSI, NESC, NEC, OSHA, FERC, NERC, and CIP, and you'll have a direct hand in evaluating new materials, equipment, and technologies as the grid modernizes.
This isn't a role you'll outgrow quickly. The position is structured across Engineer III, IV, and V levels, so there's a clear runway for advancement — from supporting standards documentation and technical reviews, to leading cross-functional standards governance and equipment strategy, to mentoring the next generation of engineers.
Why This Opportunity Is Different
What separates this role from a typical standards or compliance position is the level of ownership involved. You won't just be checking boxes against someone else's standards — you'll be helping write them, with direct exposure to capital project design reviews, vendor and manufacturer coordination, and industry forums like IEEE and NWPPA. As you grow into the role, you'll pick up team leadership, training, and mentoring responsibilities, and take on systems carrying the organization's highest level of regulatory risk. It's a role built for someone who wants technical depth and a genuine say in how the system gets built, not just a seat on the sidelines.
What You'll Be Doing
- Develop, revise, and maintain engineering standards, specifications, and technical practices for distribution and substation systems
- Interpret and apply industry codes and standards for engineering teams, project engineers, and construction crews
- Review technical drawings, construction packages, and equipment specifications for compliance, cost savings, and reliability
- Support capital project teams through design reviews, compliance assessments, and drawing reviews
- Evaluate new materials, equipment, and emerging technologies to improve standards and operational performance
- Develop technical specifications for equipment procurement and provide guidance on material substitutions
- Coordinate with internal teams, vendors, manufacturers, and regulatory agencies on technical matters
- Represent the organization at industry forums and events, including IEEE and NWPPA
What We're Looking For - Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience (four years in lieu of a degree)
- Relevant work experience: 3+ years for Engineer III, 6+ years for Engineer IV, 10+ years for Engineer V
- Ability to read, interpret, and modify technical drawings, one-line diagrams, substation plans, and AC/DC schematics
- Strong technical writing skills for specifications and contract documentation
- Working knowledge of FERC/NERC regulatory requirements
- Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently or collaboratively across teams
- Preferred: Master's degree, Washington State Engineer in Training certification, Professional Engineer (PE) license, AutoCAD experience
Compensation & Work Model Compensation is based on level of hire: Engineer III ranges $104,822–$177,107 (midpoint $140,964); Engineer IV ranges $112,585–$192,317 (midpoint $152,452); Engineer V ranges $130,666–$228,062 (midpoint $179,364). This is a hybrid position with flexible shift-length options (8, 9, or 10-hour schedules).
Location & Travel Based in Ephrata, WA, with a hybrid work arrangement. The role includes some work in the field and in active construction environments as part of standards reviews and site familiarity.
How to Apply To apply or learn more, contact: Aimee.Santos@tappwfs.com
About TAPP Workforce Solutions TAPP Workforce Solutions is a specialized recruitment and workforce solutions firm supporting organizations across skilled trades, engineering, manufacturing, and professional services. We act as an extension of our clients' teams, delivering thoughtful, relationship-driven hiring solutions focused on long-term fit, performance, and retention.
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