Consultant – Distribution Planning Engineer – DER/DG Interconnection & Grid-Mod

ENTRUST • Chicago, IL

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

This role is for a Distribution Planning Engineer looking to deepen their expertise in DER/DG and take the next step into a technical lead role. In this role, you will help shape how distributed energy resources (DER)/distributed generation (DG) – including solar, energy storage, wind, and emerging technologies – are integrated into the utility distribution system. You will work on meaningful studies, collaborate across disciplines, and play a key role in advancing grid modernization efforts.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• ~5+ years of experience in electric utility or distribution planning.
• Experience with distribution modeling and engineering analysis tools (e.g. CYME, Synergi, or ASPEN, WindMil, etc.).
• Experience supporting DER/DG interconnection or planning studies (feasibility, system impact, or similar).
• Ability to travel up to 5% as required to support clients and projects.
• FE/EIT (or ability to obtain).

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Experience with larger or more complex DER studies (e.g. cluster/group studies, 8760 simulations, etc.).
• Familiarity with hosting capacity analysis, grid modernization, or non-wires alternatives (NWA).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience managing or supporting project execution, including scope, schedule, and coordination across teams.
• Experience interfacing directly with clients, including presenting study results or participating in technical discussions.
• Understanding of project financials, budgets, or resource planning.
• Knowledge of protective device coordination settings files or arc flash analysis.
• Experience with data analysis or scripting.
• Exposure to LoadSEER, forecasting, or long-term planning studies.

Responsibilities

• Perform DER/DG interconnection and distribution planning studies, including hosting capacity, power flow, voltage analysis, and protection coordination.
• Evaluate DER impacts (solar, battery storage, EVs) and identify system constraints and mitigation strategies.
• Develop and maintain distribution system models using tools such as CYME, Synergi, or similar platforms.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (transmission, substation, distribution design, automation, etc.) to support integrated planning efforts.
• Support client-facing project work, including technical discussions and study reviews.
• Contribute to the quality and consistency of engineering deliverables across projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and support knowledge sharing across the team.

Benefits

• company sponsored medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) plan with company match.
• tuition reimbursement, voluntary life, disability, critical illness, accident and hospitalization plans.
• HSA or FSA medical accounts and FSA dependent care and transportation/parking accounts are also available.
• Generous paid time off and benefits
• 401(k) retirement program with a company match
• Career development programs
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible work schedule

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior