Lead Engineer - Non Wires Alternatives

Job Title: Lead Engineer - Non-Wires Alternatives

Reports to Manager of Non-Wires Alternatives

Office Location: Portland, Maine, Boston MA or Orange CT

The base salary range for this position is dependent upon experience and location, ranging from $101,400-$126,755

Job Summary

The Non-Wires Alternative Lead Engineer is responsible for leading and working collaboratively on the development, analysis, implementation, maintenance, evaluation, measurement, and verification (EM&V) of distributed energy resources (DER) which are part of the Non-Wires Alternatives (NWA) in Maine. This position also leads the advancement of other key clean energy initiatives, as appropriate, such as utility thermal energy networks. Specifically, this position will be responsible for:

• Apply the established distribution criteria and uses sounds utility engineering practices to identify deficiencies in the distribution system.
• Work closely with the Distribution and Transmission Planning teams to investigate, configure scenarios and run models that can help to identify NWA technologies to address system needs.
• Identify NWA opportunities through the application of suitable criteria to planned capital projects.
• Perform engineering analyses of distribution system needs and technical review of NWA proposals. Complete distribution system reliability studies, contingency plans, review capital budget project proposals, prepare net present value economic analyses and/or Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA) modeling, and determine correction of circuit electrical operating deficiencies.
• Review Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA) evaluations on potential NWA projects performed by the team.
• Support NWA contract negotiations and EM&V requirements.
• Oversee the development of NWA opportunities and associated sourcing process including Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
• Managing budgeting, forecasting, and reporting requirements for the NWA programs.
• Acting as the intermediary between the NWA team and other internal groups regarding progressing NWA projects towards contract execution and implementation.
• Establishing and maintaining positive internal and external stakeholder relationships including those with regulators.
• Assist during storm restoration efforts.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology required.
• Minimum of 7 years relevant technical experience required (Industry Related).
• Master’s degree preferred.

Technical & Functional Job Specific Skills

• Knowledge of the electric transmission and distribution system, DER Planning and System impact, strong and demonstrated ability to understand power systems analysis specifically as it relates to NWA project suitability and NWA proposal evaluation.
• Power System Studies - Knowledge & Interpretation of Study Assumptions and Results: (e.g. Comprehensive Area Studies, Power Flow, DER, Voltage, Contingency, phase imbalance, Power Factor correction, Short Circuit, reliability, resiliency, Capacity, distribution automation, etc.)
• Software Proficiency - Power System Analytics: (e.g. CYME, PSSE, ASPEN, etc.)
• Demonstrated understanding of utility operations and positive stakeholder interactions, with experience working with and across functional departments (Projects, Regulatory, Investment Plan, Distribution & Transmission Planning, others).
• Demonstrated project management experience and supporting the implementation of complex initiatives and projects (e.g. BESS, ESS, Solar & Other Generations Plants, Substations Projects, Distribution & Transmission Lines, etc).
• Comprehensive Area Studies, Power Flow, DER and ESS Interconnection, Voltage, Contingency, phase imbalance, Power Factor correction, Short Circuit, reliability, resiliency, Capacity, distribution automation, etc.)
• Experience advancing competitive procurements, RFP, RFI, Contract Management.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills, must be an effective and positive communicator.
• Strong business and technical background desired.
• Proactive and results oriented approach.
• Knowledge of Regulatory and Compliance Environment: Local, State and Federal Regulatory Standards and Requirements (NERC, NPCC, ISO, PUC, etc.)