Interconnections Planning - Distribution Principal Engineer/Project Manager
JOB SUMMARY
The number of Distributed Generation (DG) sites is increasing throughout Georgia as solar, battery storage, and biomass technology is implemented to facilitate renewable energy. This position determines the technical direction and requirements for Interconnection Planning study processes and assists the technical development of department employees. The successful candidate will provide input and advice to company leaders regarding the technical merit of key projects, helping to prioritize them for the effective use of the approved capital budget.
The Principal Engineer/Project Manager will be a technical expert regarding Distribution Generation implementation, with a focus on conducting and reviewing interconnection studies to determine the impacts and feasibility of these projects. The individual must possess outstanding work ethic, excellent communication skills, and be able to use multiple leadership styles to build strong professional relationships.
Job Responsibilities
- Effectively use software tools to create and review transmission and distribution impact studies for DG sites. Be a lead department resource for using CYMDIST.
- Provide technical advice and communicate effectively with SCS and GPC workgroups such as Customer Solutions, Renewable Development, Distribution Reliability, Area Planning, Transmission Interconnections, and area Power Delivery teams.
- Provide technical leadership and expertise to Georgia Power and Southern Company for growth in interconnection projects and technologies.
- Assist development of Interconnections Planners through training and coaching.
- Provide input to future Integrated Resource Plans (IRP), Distributed Energy Resource (DER) strategy, and interconnection policies.
- Provide input to RFP development and Bid selection process as member of GPC RFP Bid evaluation teams.
- Develop, draft, and communicate department policies and procedures for regulatory proceedings and legal agreements.
- Engage in industry committees and working groups.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education:
- Four (4) year B.S. Engineering Degree or Engineering Technology Degree required.
- Professional Engineer license preferred.
- Advanced Engineering Degrees and industry certifications preferred.
Experience Requirements:
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in planning, design, engineering, operations or maintenance within electric generation, transmission, or distribution system required.
- Specific experience related to generator interconnection process and implementation is preferred.
- Experience with distribution system design, planning, and modeling software is preferred.
- Field experience related to Transmission or Distribution is desired.
- Georgia Integrated Transmission System (ITS) planning experience is desired.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills, demonstrating effective communications at all levels internally and externally.
- Working knowledge of Transmission and Distribution systems including equipment related to DG interconnections.
- Analytical skills to identify critical issues, evaluate alternatives, financial impacts and determine viable solutions to meet Customer and Company needs.
- Must be able to achieve results by working through others, including employees, peers, and contractors.
- Ability to lead and work well within cross-functional teams is critical.
- Ability to prioritize workload effectively, exercise sound judgment, and accurately complete tasks.
Behavioral Attributes:
- Demonstrate behaviors consistent with Our Values: Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, Superior Performance.
- Functions effectively in a team environment with diverse disciplines and backgrounds as a technical leader or contributor.
- Results-oriented, accountable, and timely approach to responsibilities, deliverables, and project status communications.
- Effective interpersonal skills and proven ability to build strong relationships and foster an inclusive work environment.
Other Requirements
- This position requires a valid Driver’s License and the ability to safely drive a vehicle (personal, company-owned, or rental) for occasional storm support or off-site meetings.