As an Engineer in Pacific Power's Distribution System Planning team, you will hold a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the electrical distribution system. This role requires a solid foundation in distribution system planning, wires and non-wires solution analysis to address grid needs, toolset evaluation, a strong data background, statewide and community stakeholder engagement, and expertise in hosting capacity analysis. Your responsibilities encompass designing, analyzing, and optimizing the distribution system to meet the evolving needs of the communities Pacific Power serves while incorporating innovative, cost-effective solutions
Responsibilities
Distribution Planning: Develop short-term and long-term plans for the distribution system that align with company objectives and regulatory requirements. Utilize your technical expertise to assess the impacts of various distribution projects.
Wires/Non-Wires Solution Analysis: Evaluate and recommend standard solutions (wires) and alternative (non-wires) solutions, such as distributed energy resources, energy efficiency, energy storage, demand response, and microgrids to address grid capacity issues, deferring or eliminating the need for traditional infrastructure upgrades.
Load Forecasting: Perform long-term load forecasting to predict load growth, ensuring the distribution system has capacity for future demand.
Hosting Capacity Analysis: Conduct hosting capacity assessments to identify the potential for integrating renewable energy resources, including solar, batteries, and other emerging technologies, into the distribution grid. Determine the grid's ability to accommodate additional loads and generation.
Data Analysis: Utilize your strong data background to collect, analyze, and interpret data related to the performance and operation of the distribution system, including time series data from AMI and SCADA systems. Leverage data-driven insights to make informed decisions.
Reporting: Lead the compilation and updating of Distribution System Planning baseline data, encompassing information about all Pacific Power's distribution feeders, substations, and infrastructure.
Toolset Evaluation: Assess and recommend the use of planning and analysis tools to advance the efficiency and accuracy of distribution system planning.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with statewide and community stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, local governments, community-based organizations, and utility partners. Gather input, address concerns, and promote advancements in distribution planning practices.
Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, field engineering, area planning, grid modernization, wildfire mitigation, investment delivery, asset management, customer and community solutions, regulatory, and external stakeholders. Ensure alignment with the company's objectives and adherence to industry standards.
Regulatory Compliance: Stay up to date with regulatory changes and requirements related to distribution system planning and make necessary adjustments to ensure compliance.
Innovation: Stay informed about emerging technologies, trends, and best practices in the field of Engineering.
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Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college/university.
Minimum of five years of experience in distribution system planning and analysis.
Proven problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
Strong data analysis and modeling skills.
Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations (IEEE, IEC, NEC, NESC etc.).
Experience in load flow analysis to identify distribution thermal and voltage constraints.
Ability to communicate complex data in a simple, actionable way through visualizations.
Ability to review scientific literature and incorporate knowledge into ongoing projects.
Exceptional technical writing skills.
Strong presentation and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated leadership and/or project management skills.
Preferences
Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college/university
Experience with hosting capacity analysis tools and techniques
Experience in Volt-VAR optimization project implementation and measurement and verification techniques
Experience in the interconnection process for small generators (<20MW)
Experience of SQL query construction and optimization
Experience in Python, Java Script, or other scripting languages
Knowledge of industry best practices for data management
Understanding of the Company's business and relevant policies, procedures, and practices
Professional Engineering license
Additional Information
Req Id: 111316
PacifiCorp
825 NE Multnomah
Portland
Oregon United States
www.pacificorp.com
