Engineer Assc - Engineer Staff(Distribution System Planning)

American Electric Power•Roanoke, VA

2d•$74,551 - $177,503•Onsite

About The Position

The successful candidate will serve as a Distribution Planning Engineer on AEP’s Distribution System Planning team. The team identifies potential distribution-system needs using station and circuit load forecasts, load-flow studies, and asset-renewal data. The engineer evaluates identified needs and works with the broader Energy Delivery team to scope and vet collaborative solutions. The role also supports large-customer requests, Distributed Energy Resource studies, and grid-modernization initiatives, and encourages innovative approaches to complex problems. Work is performed in accordance with AEP’s culture and under the guidance of higher-level engineers. This is an entry-level engineering role involving the application of engineering knowledge to assigned work safely, effectively, efficiently, and economically. The engineer applies fundamental theory to well-defined problems, assists senior engineers with defined parts of more complex analyses, and develops familiarity with relevant standards, codes, regulations, equipment, materials, systems, and business processes. The role includes routine coordination, project planning input, cost estimating, technical analysis, communication, collaboration, and decision-making with appropriate review and guidance. The posting describes multiple grade levels and advancement opportunities. The stated minimum qualifications for Engineer Associate (Grade 6) are a bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program. Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future Professional Engineer licensure is encouraged and preferred. Higher-level grades have progressively greater education, experience, and certification expectations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program for the Engineer Associate (Grade 6) level.
Entry-level knowledge and experience applying engineering theory to well-defined problems or analyses, with guidance from higher-level engineers.
Fundamental understanding of, and willingness to develop familiarity with, standards, codes, and regulations relevant to the assignment.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, understand instructions, and request clarification when needed.
Ability to work collaboratively, supply and seek information, and develop effective working relationships.
Ability to apply basic analysis techniques to routine technical problems and use initiative to identify opportunities and present ideas.
Ability to understand authorized decision-making responsibilities and make routine decisions subject to review.

Nice To Haves

Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future Professional Engineer licensure is encouraged and preferred.
Experience in Distribution System Planning, Station Engineering, Transmission Planning or another Transmission function, T or D Operations, or utility work generally may be a good fit.
Participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged.

Responsibilities

Identify distribution-system needs using station and circuit load forecasts, load-flow study analysis, and asset-renewal data.
Evaluate identified system needs and collaborate with the Energy Delivery team to scope and vet solutions.
Support large-customer requests, Distributed Energy Resource studies, and grid-modernization advancement.
Apply engineering theory and basic techniques to analyze and resolve routine technical problems, with guidance from higher-level engineers.
Assist higher-level engineers with defined portions of more complex engineering problems and analyses.
Coordinate work activities of others as required to resolve routine engineering tasks.
Provide input to routine project-planning documents, monitor project status, and recommend action as appropriate.
Prepare cost estimates using established standards and complete work according to plans and schedules established by higher-level employees.
Assist with and participate in preparing reports and technical papers; communicate information and ideas clearly.
Work collaboratively, seek information and assistance when needed, and contribute to team decision-making.
Apply economic analysis techniques and pursue ways to protect and enhance the environment while providing reliable electricity at a competitive cost.