Distribution Engineer

Job Summary
Under the direction of the Director of Engineering and Operations (E & O), provide electrical distribution engineering services to the RMLD. Employees in this classification apply knowledge of electrical engineering to problems and projects requiring familiarity with methods and materials of electric programs. This job is an integral of a progression path to Systems Engineer. Must be able to qualify as a minimum Level 3 Control Authority and be capable of on-call rotation with other Control Authorities.
Illustrative Work Activities:
Essential work activities, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
• Assists the System Engineer and Director of (E & O) in the areas of systems planning to accommodate projected load growth.
• Evaluates the impact of localized load growth of the electrical system; provides recommendations for plans to accommodate such growth.
• Monitors system power factor and determines placement of capacitors for correction of power factor.
• Prepares technical specifications and drawings for the procurement of electrical sub-transmission distribution and control apparatus.
• Provides technical support for the maintenance of substations and associated control systems.
• Performs short circuit and coordination studies to ensure the proper protection of the RMLD’s sub-transmission and distribution systems.
• Organizes and dispatches sequenced switching orders for maintenance and emergency line operations.
• Assists in the instruction of proper maintenance and operation of electrical apparatus.
• Performs electrical testing of high voltage and associated control equipment as required.
• Performs load flow and circuit load analysis to determine the capacity and future requirements of the sub-transmission and distribution lines.
• Provides technical specifications and assists with the preparation and review of RFP’s and technical proposals.
• Design and manage of multiple 35KV, 13.8KV and 4.16KV distribution construction projects, including O/H, U/G and substation.
• Performs required Eng. calculations and analysis (i.e. reliability, load flow, short circuit, voltage analysis, protection & coordination, life cycle analysis, system loss calculation, planning study, etc.)
• Assists in programing and operating SCADA and other related automated distribution equipment.
• Provides technical information and assistance to other Town depts./agencies and customers.
• Must meet applicable qualifications to be responsible for overseeing emergency operations as assigned control authority, as determined by the General Manager or designee.
• Monitors and oversees NERC, NPCC, and ISO compliance standards and requirements.
• Reviews all applicable construction and codes and standards (i.e. NESC, IEEE, ANSI, NIST, etc.) and makes necessary recommendations for modifying construction designs and practices accordingly.
• Performs GIS edits, develops load flow models, programs & troubleshoot smart grid devices.
• Performs all aspects of quality Project Management.
• Prepares construction drawings under supervision of System Engineer.
• Perform single contingency analysis for proper planning.
• Perform harmonics analysis.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college or university; specialization in power systems preferred; Master’s Degree preferred.
Experience:
Minimum of 3 - 5 years of demonstrated electrical engineering distribution design planning, including demonstrated ability to perform load flow, protection and coordination, short circuit, voltage analysis, life cycle analysis, system loss calculation, pole loading, guy tensioning, in accordance with applicable laws and codes. 3 years of demonstrated switching and tagging of a system equivalent in complexity. 1 year of demonstrated experience in qualified project management, 3 preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of theory and practices of electrical engineering related to the areas of assignment as obtained from accredited college or university. Knowledge of NESC, OSHA and related O/H and U/G distribution construction and safety standards, codes and regulations. Knowledge of GIS and applicable software packages, formal Red Tag Switchman/Tagman procedures and hazardous waste spill prevention regulations. Knowledge of cost estimating, budgeting, and project management. Knowledge of emergency response, switching and tagging, as a qualified Control Authority or similar. Knowledge of engineering mathematics and calculations. Familiarity with municipal purchasing and bidding laws, various distribution analysis software applications and construction and design codes. Ability to conduct engineering research and apply results to engineering problems.
Judgment and Initiative:
Under direction, performs duties in accordance with established policies, codes, laws and professional standards; unusual policy questions involving interpretation or clarification usually reviewed with supervisor. Initiative in ensuring continued process improvements in areas of job description duties to demonstrate better accuracy, productivity, safety and customer service, is expected. Ability to multi-task. Strong understanding of utility best practices enables predictive and preventative initiatives.
Distribution Engineer 2
Demonstrates capability for accepting responsibility for the activities of major multi-divisional function areas as a Control Authority which entails overall responsibility for system operation, manpower, prioritization, state/local authority communication, safety, mutual aid, etc. Demonstrated experience and capability in establishing own work plans and priorities, using standard engineering practices, to assure timely completion of assigned work. May require an action to obtain a higher Control Authority when tasks are above qualified level.
Physical Demands:
Capable of performing job functions under occasionally adverse weather and working conditions for extended periods of time. Moderate physical effort may be required on an intermittent basis.
Manual Skills:
Ability to utilize hand tools and test equipment such as high voltage test equipment, grounding equipment and other related apparatus.
Supervisory:
Supervises engineering staff and field personnel as required when performing Control Authority duties. Maintains his/her career development plans.
Licenses and Certifications:
Valid Driver’s license or equivalent. Ability to obtain a MA Construction Supervisor’s License.
Other/Special Requirements:
Must qualify as a Level 3 Control Authority.
Demonstrates ability to communicate ideas and directions to employees, customers, vendors and peers, in a clear and concise manner. Demonstrates ability to be a team player. Demonstrates a positive attit