PE
Distribution Co-op Student
internship•Burnaby
About this role
Primary Engineering and Construction Corporation (Primary) is a leading provider of professional engineering and construction services. Our diverse teams and inclusive culture are the core that powers Primary, enabling us to tailor solutions to clients' and Engineering communities’ specific needs through listening to and embracing unique perspectives. Primary connects them to what is possible today and provides a solid foundation for tomorrow.
We offer an extensive array of comprehensive engineering design and design/build services encompassing power system engineering, design-build services for utilities, joint use and telecommunication design, traffic and transportation engineering, and renewable energy systems. These services cater to a diverse range of clients, including electric utility companies, developers, builders, commercial and industrial businesses, mining companies, government, and private contractors. We are driven to build long-term relationships with both our customers and employees.
At Primary, we are dedicated to fostering an open and safe environment where all voices, whether from our team members, clients, or community, are valued and heard. As we grow our company, we remain committed to breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities within our industry.
Reporting to the Manager, Utility Design, the Distribution Co-op Student is primarily responsible for designing and drafting electrical distribution infrastructure. This role is open to students available for an 8, 12, or 16-month term starting in May 2026.
Responsibilities:
- Electrical and civil design to support underground and overhead electrical distribution infrastructure (4kV – 25kV system voltages).
- Material take-offs and project estimating.
- Voltage drop and transformer loading calculations.
- Cable pull calculations using Pull Planner.
- Pole modelling calculations using SPIDAcalc and PLS-CADD.
- Reviewing engineering consultant drawings such as civil, architectural, landscape, and on-site electrical to coordinate and eliminate design conflicts.
- Site visits to inspect electrical and civil electrical infrastructure and stake pole and anchor locations.
- Project schedule management and tracking.
- Research and application of engineering standards and codes.
- Collaboration with project team (project managers, designers, drafters, and site inspectors) to ensure projects are executed successfully.
- Design coordination with external clients, engineering consultants, utility approval teams, municipalities, material and construction suppliers, and other stakeholders.
- Drafting/redlining in AutoCAD and Bluebeam.
- Creating and updating tools and automation using Microsoft Excel, Visual Basic Application, and other software.
Qualifications:
- Successful completion of at least one year of an engineering program at an accredited university or college (electrical or civil preferred).
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop business relationships conducted in a professional manner.
- Demonstrated self-motivation and drive for improvement.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities concurrently.
- Class 5 driver’s license.
Additional Assets:
- Experience in design and cost estimating of electrical distribution projects.
- Experience working in the shallow utility industry.
- Experience with automation using Microsoft Excel and Visual Basic Application.
- Exposure to telecommunications, natural gas, street lighting, traffic signals, buildings electrical, civil, landscape, or architectural design.
- Familiarity with BC Hydro design standards.
- Familiarity with construction and land development industry.
Why Join Primary?
At Primary, we don’t just deliver engineering and construction solutions — we build careers, communities, and lasting partnerships. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Competitive Compensation: Our total rewards package includes competitive salaries, generous vacation allowances and more.
- People-First Culture: We believe that great work starts with great people. Our collaborative and inclusive culture fosters open communication, mutual respect, and a genuine sense of belonging.
- Innovation Meets Impact: With over 20 years of experience delivering infrastructure solutions across Canada, we’re known for our forward-thinking approach and commitment to quality.
- Growth & Development: We invest in our people. We offer mentorship, training programs, and opportunities to expand your skills across disciplines and projects.
- Commitment to Safety & Integrity: Safety is our top priority — in our field work, our offices, and our culture.
How to Apply
If you are ready for a new challenge and want to make a difference in the industry, please click the link to apply. If this role isn’t quite right for you, check out our careers page for other available opportunities.
Careers - Primary Engineering and Construction Corporation
Candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada at the time of application.
We thank all candidates for their applications; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted
What you'll do
- The Distribution Co-op Student is responsible for designing and drafting electrical distribution infrastructure, including both underground and overhead systems. This role involves collaboration with project teams and external stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.
About Primary Engineering and Construction
For over 21 years, Primary has been an engineering and construction leader specializing in electric utility distribution, transmission, substation, telecommunication, lighting, traffic signalization, and building electrical services. We provide design, construction, and Turnkey/Design-Build options for clients including electric utility companies, telecommunications, land developers, municipalities, commercial and industrial businesses, energy companies, and private contractors. We partner with our clients to provide quality, tailored, and complete electrical engineering and communications distribution solutions that instill confidence, build trust, and allow you to achieve your goals.
Our focus on customer service and project management is supported by over 450 professional employees across Canada. We consider our greatest assets to be our relationships, professional skills, high-quality standards, and commitment to conduct operations ethically and responsibly.
Primary offers engineering services across Canada with 10 office locations. We look for ways to establish local resources and offices in the regions we operate in. We have expanded our offering to include construction with a designated construction office in Calgary. Primary is growing quickly and expanding where our services are needed.
Ready to join Primary Engineering and Construction?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Distribution Co-op Student do at Primary Engineering and Construction?
As a Distribution Co-op Student at Primary Engineering and Construction, you will: the Distribution Co-op Student is responsible for designing and drafting electrical distribution infrastructure, including both underground and overhead systems. This role involves collaboration with project teams and external stakeholders to ensure successful project execution..
Is the Distribution Co-op Student position at Primary Engineering and Construction remote?
The Distribution Co-op Student position at Primary Engineering and Construction is based in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Contact the company through Clera for specific work arrangement details.
How do I apply for the Distribution Co-op Student position at Primary Engineering and Construction?
You can apply for the Distribution Co-op Student position at Primary Engineering and Constructiondirectly through Clera. Click the "Apply Now" button above to start your application. Clera's AI-powered platform will help match your profile with this opportunity and guide you through the application process.