Reliability Engineering

Distribution System Operations (DSO) Real-Time Reliability EngineerThe Distribution System Operations (DSO) Real-Time Reliability Engineer is a key member of a newly formed team redefining how AEP operates the modern, DER-enabled grid. This role sits at the intersection of traditional distribution operations, emerging distributed energy technologies, and evolving market structures. Responsible for real-time evaluation and coordination of DER impacts, this position will utilize their engineering expertise to analyze, document, and consult on the impacts of distributed energy resources (DER) and other grid modernization technology as it relates to the real-time operations of the distribution grid. As this team and function mature, the DSO Real-Time Reliability Engineer will play a central role in advancing operational planning functions, enabling innovative grid solutions, leveraging DERMS capabilities, and helping transition AEP toward a more dynamic, integrated, and resilient energy system.Through collaboration with Distribution Dispatch Centers, the System Control Center (SCC), Planning, Engineering, and other stakeholders, this role develops the operational frameworks, studies, and engineering analyses necessary to support the reliable integration and operation of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and Distributed Energy Resource Aggregations (DERAs) across the AEP distribution system.The successful candidate will evaluate emerging grid conditions, develop operational recommendations, identify system constraints, and support the implementation of DER-enabled solutions that enhance reliability, resilience, and grid flexibility. Occasional travel for training and cross-functional engagement may be required.Perform engineering studies and operational analyses to evaluate the impacts of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and Distributed Energy Resource Aggregations (DERA) on distribution system reliability, including voltage performance, thermal loading, protection coordination, and backfeed conditions.Develop and maintain operational planning models, forecasts, and contingency analyses to support reliable DER integration and operational decision-making.Identify existing and emerging DER-related system constraints and develop recommendations to mitigate operational and reliability risks.Provide engineering support and operational recommendations to Distribution Dispatch Centers (DDC), the System Control Center (SCC), and other stakeholders regarding DER-related system conditions and planned work activities.Develop operating criteria, procedures, and decision-support tools that support the safe and reliable operation of a DER-enabled electric grid.Support the development and implementation of advanced operational capabilities, including DERMS, ADMS, FLISR, Volt/VAR Optimization, and intentional islanding strategies.Collaborate with Operations, Planning, Engineering, Information Technology, and external stakeholders to enhance DER integration and improve operational readiness across multiple RTO/ISO regions.Maintain technical documentation, study results, operating guidelines, and engineering recommendations related to DER integration, operational planning, and grid reliability.to interact with other industry leaders to be current on the latest DER and grid modernization technologies that can be applied to the distribution systemEngineer SG7Education/Experience:Has typically acquired a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* along with two or more years of related engineering experience.Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degreeEngineer Senior SG8Education/Experience:Has typically acquired 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;Or 2 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*;Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferredEngineer Principal SG9Education/Experience:Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;Or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.**Must have the ability to effectively work in a team environment and professionally deal with co-workers, customers and management personnel.Ability to collaborate with technical writers to document newly developed processesCertifications associated with NERC, EPRI, or RTO/ISOs may be required as the AEP DSO and industry requirements evolve.Preferred KnowledgePreferred minimum experience is 2-4 years in Distribution or Transmission operations areas.Expert knowledge of distributed energy resources (DER), distributed energy resource aggregations (DERA), and Virtual Power Plants (VPP). Specific knowledge areas could include operation of DERs within a utility grid, DER communications/settings, real time protection/control, cybersecurity, etc.Experience with distribution level overcurrent coordination, Distribution Automation (DA), Fault Location Isolation and Service Restoration (FLISR), Volt/VAR optimization is desired.Knowledge of wholesale Energy Markets, RTO/ISO responsibilities, and the impact to distribution systems resulting from FERC 2222Experience with utility integrated SCADA communications networks is desired.Experience with circuit modeling, power flow algorithms, and project management skills are desired.This role sits on site in New Albany, Ohio.Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do At AEP, we're more than just an energy company — we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities.