Professional Engineer

Position Overview

The Professional Engineer – Energy Resources performs advanced electrical, mechanical, and computer modeling engineering tasks to support Merced Irrigation District’s (MID) electric and hydroelectric operations. This role collaborates across departments, including General Management, Water Operations, Maintenance, and Finance, to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant energy resource management. The position involves project management, system analysis, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement to achieve District objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Design & Analysis: Conduct complex engineering tasks for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of electrical and hydroelectric facilities. Perform system modeling, load flow, short circuit analysis, and engineering studies to optimize performance of any and all distribution and transmission equipment.

Project Management: Oversee engineering and construction projects from planning to completion, including budgeting, scheduling, coordination, and field inspections. Collaborate with external entities (e.g., CAISO, PG&E, TID, NCPA, consultants, regulators) to ensure project success.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to NERC and WECC standards by monitoring compliance, coordinating audits, preparing reports, and developing performance metrics.

Technical Support: Provide expertise to MID departments, including engineering, planning, and operations. Offer guidance on technical issues, interpret construction drawings, and resolve field challenges during project execution.

Planning & Budgeting: Contribute to short- and long-term capital improvement plans, revenue forecasting, and power cost budgeting using performance models. Review developer-submitted plans for compliance with District standards.

Field Work: Perform field surveys and site visits to support construction projects, new customer connections, and facility upgrades. Respond to emergencies and participate in on-call duties as assigned.

Reporting & Communication: Prepare detailed reports, presentations, and documentation for internal, board, and public use. Represent MID at community and professional meetings, fostering consensus and addressing public concerns.

Software Utilization: Leverage engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, GE SPSLF, Civil 3D, MS Office Suite, ETAP, ASPEN Oneliner) and develop proficiency in new tools as needed.

Supervision:

Reports to the Manager of Engineering - Energy Resources.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering from an accredited institution.

Experience

Minimum of two (2) years of professional engineering experience in electric transmission, distribution, substation design, or operations.

Proven experience preparing technical reports and studies for electric transmission and distribution projects.

Proficiency in multiple engineering software programs, including AutoCAD and MS Office Suite.

Familiarity with NERC/WECC compliance and CAISO/TID tariff structures is preferred.

Skills and Abilities

Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to independently resolve nonstandard issues using best engineering practices.

Effective communication, both verbal and written, with diverse stakeholders, including staff, contractors, regulators, and the public.

Leadership and project management skills to guide teams and coordinate complex initiatives.

Ability to handle confidential information professionally and navigate sensitive political dynamics within a public agency.

Proficiency in negotiating agreements and building consensus with external entities.

Adaptability to learn new software and attend District-directed training.

Knowledge

Electrical engineering principles related to transmission, distribution, and substations.

NERC/WECC compliance standards and CAISO grid management methodologies.

Project management processes, including CEQA/NEPA requirements and bid specifications.

Research, analysis, and technical report preparation methodologies.

Supervisory techniques to lead and mentor engineering staff.

Special Requirements

Valid California Driver’s License.

Ability to respond to emergencies and participate in on-call rotations.

Willingness to attend professional development courses as directed.

PE License (Electrical)

Work Environment & Environmental Factors

Primarily office-based with occasional fieldwork (10% or less exposure to outdoor conditions).

May require irregular or extended hours, including overtime.

Exposure to uneven terrain or stairways during site visits.

Physical Demands

Sit for up to eight (8) hours per day while operating computers and office equipment.

Lift and carry up to 25 pounds of materials or equipment.

Communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and in writing.

Hear and see well enough to interpret communications and operate vehicles/office equipment.

Navigate uneven ground or bend/stoop during fieldwork.

Mental Demands:

Exercise independent judgment and objective reasoning.

Organize and prioritize tasks on daily and weekly basis.

Interpret and apply state, federal, and agency regulations.

Document work concisely, accurately, and promptly.

Manage multiple duties with potential interruptions.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Supervision:

Reports to the Manager of Engineering - Energy Resources.