Manager - Grid Model & Plan Automation

Iberdrola • Binghamton, NY

1d • $134,720 - $168,400 • Onsite

About The Position

This role leads the transformation of distribution system planning through advanced data modeling, automation of engineering analyses, and continuous process improvement. This role is responsible for developing and implementing scalable solutions that enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of planning activities. The position combines deep technical expertise in power system modeling and analysis with leadership in digital tools, data governance, and engineering standards. The Grid Modeling & Planning Automation Manager ensures that planning processes are supported by high-quality system data, automated workflows, and standardized methodologies aligned with grid modernization objectives. This role also drives innovation in planning practices to improve reliability, optimize capital investments, and support increasing system complexity driven by DER integration, electrification, and new technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and 8+ years of relevant experience in power systems, with emphasis on distribution planning, modeling, or analytics.
• Strong knowledge of distribution system modeling and power flow analysis, Planning studies and Grid modernization technologies and DER impacts.
• Experience with Power system software (e.g., CYME, Synergi, OpenDSS, PSCAD, etc.), Scripting/programming (Python, SQL) and Data management and model integration.
• Understanding of Utility data systems (GIS, AMI, SCADA) and Regulatory and compliance frameworks (NERC, ISO, PUCs).
• Strong communication skills for both technical and executive audiences.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, governance, and continuous improvement of distribution system models used in planning tools (e.g., power flow, hosting capacity, contingency analysis), ensuring accuracy, consistency, and scalability.
• Establish and enforce data standards, validation processes, and quality controls across operating companies to standardize and automate planning studies.
• Oversee the integration of multi-source utility data (GIS, SCADA, AMI, asset systems) into planning models and ensure data readiness for advanced analytics and AI applications.
• Lead the design and implementation of automated planning analyses, including power flow, contingency, and scenario-based studies.
• Develop and deploy automation solutions (e.g., Python, SQL, and workflow tools) to streamline study execution, reporting, and engineering decision-making.
• Drive adoption of advanced planning tools, AI, and digital solutions, including leading pilot programs, evaluating new technologies, and scaling successful innovations.
• Integrate AI-driven insights and intelligent automation into planning processes, including forecasting, scenario analysis, anomaly detection, and automated study validation.
• Define, maintain, and enhance Distribution Planning Criteria and engineering standards, ensuring alignment with evolving grid needs, regulatory expectations, and emerging technologies.
• Advance planning capabilities to address grid modernization challenges, including electrification impacts, load forecasting, DER integration, and Non-Wires Alternatives (NWA).
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team while collaborating across Planning, IT, Regulatory, and external partners (vendors, universities, research organizations) and representing the company in technical and regulatory forums.

Benefits

• fair and equal employment and advancement opportunities for all employees and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

What This Job Offers

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