Hey everyone!
I’m currently a distribution engineer ($95K) working on feeder design, utility-scale solar interconnections (\\\~10 MVA), line extensions, transformer sizing, etc.
I enjoy the work and feel like I’m building strong power systems experience. I’m also about 2 years away from my PE.
I have another opportunity for a facilities engineering role:
more focused on maintaining/upgrading building electrical systems, higher pay ($120-125K), hybrid schedule 9/80, but \\\~3 hr round trip commute (only 3x/week)
My priorities are getting my PE, build strong transferable technical skills and also grow a side business outside of work.
Would you stay in utility/power systems for broader experience? Or take the higher-paying facilities role with more flexibility but a long commute, and work that I’m a little less passionate about?
Realistically with maintenance & gas, I will be spending an extra $500/month with the 3x commute throughout the week.