Senior PLS-CADD Drafter

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior PLS-CADD Drafter to support major transmission project for one of the largest full-service geospatial solutions providers in North America. In this role, you will take ownership of complex modeling tasks, producing high-quality PLS-CADD models and construction-ready deliverables with a strong emphasis on LiDAR-based modeling, advanced analysis, structure assessment, and model rectification.

You will perform detailed analytical work using LiDAR data, ensure all designs meet client standards and project requirements, and collaborate closely with production managers and technical leads to deliver accurate, efficient, and technically sound results.

Work Environment:

• Location:  NV5 Portland, OR office
• Hybrid Schedule

At NV5, we are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each other, our communities, and the environment.  We value both heart and head, the diversity of our people, and their experiences because that is how we continue to grow as leaders in our industry and expand our individual and collective potential.

NV5 is a global technology solutions and consulting services company with a workforce of over 4,500 professionals in more than 100 offices worldwide.  NV5’s continued growth has been spurred through strategic investments in firms with unique capabilities to help current and future customers solve the world’s toughest problems.  The NV5 family brings together talent across a wide range of markets and fields, including Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Architects, Photogrammetrists, GIS Professionals, Software Developers, IT, Project Management Professionals, and more.

• Perform advanced modeling and design of transmission lines (69kV–550kV) using PLS-CADD, ensuring alignment with client standards, specifications, and industry regulations. 
• Integrate LiDAR and other remotely sensed data into PLS-CADD models with high precision and accuracy. 

• Conduct structural analysis and support the design of pole, lattice, framed, and guyed structures. 

• Support material and component selection by preparing specifications and validating design inputs. 

• Execute batch thermal analyses to assess system performance under varying environmental conditions. 

• Analyze conductor thermal ratings considering temperature, wind, and solar radiation effects. 

• Collaborate with production managers and technical leads to support planning, scheduling, and project delivery. 

• Perform quality checks of PLS-CADD models and drawings, ensuring accuracy and compliance before submission. 

• Troubleshoot complex modeling or design challenges and propose practical, technically sound solutions. 

• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts, including workflow optimization, data integration, and best practices. 

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Structural, Electrical Engineering, GIS, or a related technical field (Master’s preferred). 
• 3–5+ years of progressive experience in transmission line design with strong hands-on PLS-CADD proficiency. 

• Working knowledge of PLS-POLE, PLS-TOWER, and complementary modeling tools. 

• Proven experience incorporating LiDAR, terrain mapping, and GIS datasets into transmission line modeling. 

• Solid analytical, technical, and troubleshooting skills with a track record of delivering accurate, high-quality work. 

• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with project teams in a fast-paced environment. 

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and operate with a high level of ownership and accountability. 

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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