Distribution Planning Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Salary:

The Distribution Planning Engineer assists in the engineering activities of the cooperative by applying sound engineering judgment in system construction, planning, and protection, as well as maintaining and analyzing critical engineering data. This role is responsible for the design, analysis, and optimization of the electrical distribution system to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient power delivery to our members.

The engineer will utilize specialized software to model power flows, identify potential grid issues, implement solutions to enhance stability, and ensure all infrastructure upgrades comply with NESC, NEC, OSHA, and cooperative standards. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including members, field crews, and external agencies (e.g., utility companies, regulatory bodies, highway departments) to support the safe and efficient distribution of electricity.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

System Planning & Design

• Engineering Studies:Conduct engineering studies to aid in the preparation of system planning, including construction work plans, long-range plans, power requirement studies, and sectionalizing studies.

• Design & Compliance:Design and analyze distribution line extensions to ensure compliance with REMC standards, as well as NEC, NESC, and OSHA guidelines.

• Mapping & Data Management:Initiate, maintain, and continually update system maps with current engineering and field data to aid in the development of the engineering model and system studies.

• Substation Information:Maintain accurate substation information, including equipment lists, one-line diagrams, and loading profiles.

• Power Quality & Efficiency:Investigate power quality problems, implement resolutions, and monitor voltage recordings and power factor data.

Operations & Field Coordination

• Member Interaction:Conduct staking appointments and coordinate with Cooperative members to determine optimum methods for new service installations, upgrades, or changes.

• Work Order & Materials:Tabulate construction units, costs, and material lists for jobs; issue work orders as required.

• System Monitoring:Monitor AMR blink count data and track maintenance testing schedules for poles, meters, and reclosers.

• SCADA/Control Systems:Monitor and update the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system and program control panels for voltage correction and system protection devices.
• Operations Support:Assist the Operations Department as required, including potential dispatching and receiving radio transmissions from line and service trucks to coordinate assignments during outages and service calls.
• Key Accounts Support:Assist Key Accounts personnel regarding requests and complaints.

Compliance & Stakeholder Relations

• External Coordination:Coordinate with other utilities regarding Reciprocal Pole Attachment Agreements (location recording, inspection, billing). Coordinate with State and Local Highway departments on projects and obtain necessary permits.

• Safety & Codes:Maintain current knowledge of relevant codes, trends, and technology (NEC, NESC, OSHA).

• Locates:Contact Indiana Underground Plant Protection for locate requests.

• Special Projects:Research, analyze, and manage special projects assigned by the supervisor.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Knowledge of Cooperative principles and practices.
• Knowledge of construction standards and relevant codes (NEC, NESC, OSHA).
• Effective communication skills with Cooperative Members and co-workers (meetings, phone conversations, correspondence).
• Map reading and navigation abilities.
• Ability to conduct oneself in a professional manner in the workplace and while representing the cooperative away from the office.
• Must observe all safety rules and regulations adopted by REMC.
• Must be able to work in an on-call status.

Education and Experience

• A four-year Electrical Engineering Degree or related Degree/Experience is required.
• Work experience with an electric utility or electric business is desired.
• Previous experience in computer applications and CAD mapping is desired.
• Familiarity with NEC, NESC, and OSHA guidelines is preferred.