Associate Engineer - Distribution Planning

Iberdrola•Rochester, NY

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Engineer - Distribution Planning collaborates on and performs distribution studies, including voltage, thermal, N-1, power factor, short-circuit, and flicker assessments. The role works with internal teams on Non-Wires Alternatives such as battery storage and on Smart Grid innovation and grid automation to develop non-traditional solutions. It analyzes distribution system interconnections for distributed energy resources, including photovoltaic systems and battery storage, as well as new customer loads at multiple voltage levels. The engineer applies distribution criteria and utility engineering practices to identify system deficiencies, recommends distribution automation devices, and develops designs and recommendations aligned with program objectives. The position requires developing proficiency with distribution planning tools, including GIS mapping of distribution circuits, power-flow tools, and protection-analysis tools, while continually seeking improvements in the precision and efficiency of planning. The engineer also collaborates with internal teams and industry peers, develops subject-matter expertise to support and mentor the team, and assists with storm restoration efforts. The position is based in the office in Rochester, New York, and reports to the Manager - Distribution Planning. Employees may be assigned a system emergency role and, in that event, may be required to work outside their regular schedule or job duties. Certain employees in applicable business areas may also be assigned NERC Reliability Standards compliance responsibilities.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) required.
0–2 years of industry-related experience.
Theoretical engineering knowledge in planning, operations, engineering design, analytics, modeling, calculations, and utility business models.
Practical engineering experience or application in planning, operations, engineering design, and construction, such as field experience, standardization, and developing and defending business cases with stakeholders.
Ability to document and interpret engineering documentation and review and approve engineering work completed by others.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulatory standards and requirements, including NERC, NPCC, ISO, and PUC.
Knowledge and interpretation of power-system study assumptions and results, including comprehensive area studies, power flow, DER, voltage, contingency, phase imbalance, power-factor correction, short circuit, reliability, resiliency, capacity, and distribution automation.

Nice To Haves

Power-system concentration in the BSEE preferred.
Proficiency with power-system analytics software such as CYME, PSSE, or ASPEN.
Relevant experience in Distribution Planning; candidates with offsetting industry or technical experience, such as T&D Engineering or P&C, will also be considered.

Responsibilities

Collaborate on and perform distribution studies, including voltage, thermal, N-1, power factor, short-circuit, and flicker assessments.
Collaborate with internal teams on Non-Wires Alternatives, including battery storage, and Smart Grid innovation in grid automation to develop non-traditional solutions.
Analyze distribution system interconnections for distributed energy resources, including photovoltaic systems and battery storage, and new customer loads at multiple voltage levels.
Apply established distribution criteria and utility engineering practices to identify distribution system deficiencies.
Recommend distribution automation devices and develop designs and recommendations that comply with program objectives.
Develop understanding and apply distribution planning tools, including GIS mapping of distribution circuits, power-flow tools, and protection-analysis tools.
Identify and integrate improvements to increase the precision and efficiency of distribution planning.
Develop subject-matter expertise as needed to mentor and support the team and advance business needs.
Collaborate with internal teams and industry peers on regional and divisional activities.
Assist during storm restoration efforts.