Electrical Distribution Engineer

Position Overview

A Distribution Systems Operator Engineer is a key professional within the utility or energy sector responsible for ensuring the efficient, reliable, and safe distribution of electricity or gas to customers. This role plays a critical part in monitoring, controlling, and maintaining distribution systems to support continuous and secure energy delivery.

Key Responsibilities

System Monitoring

- Continuously monitor the electrical or gas distribution system using Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Distribution Management Systems (DMS).

- Observe equipment such as transformers, circuit breakers, and switches to ensure optimal system performance.

Emergency Response

- Respond promptly to alarms, outages, and emergency events.

- Make critical decisions to isolate faults and restore services safely, adhering to safety protocols and regulatory standards.

Load Management

- Manage and balance system loads to maintain reliability.

- Implement load shedding or restoration during peak demand or abnormal conditions.

Switching Operations

- Perform and oversee switching and tagging operations to reconfigure systems, isolate faults, and restore service safely.

Troubleshooting

- Diagnose issues involving system reliability, equipment failure, and voltage irregularities.

- Coordinate with field technicians to resolve operational issues efficiently.

Data Analysis

- Utilize SCADA and DMS data to identify trends, detect anomalies, and recommend system improvements.

- Support planning and reliability engineering through data-driven insights.

Communication and Coordination

- Maintain clear and continuous communication with field crews, dispatchers, and other system operators.

- Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and planning teams to coordinate system upgrades, maintenance, and repairs.

Safety and Compliance

- Ensure all activities comply with OSHA, NERC, and company safety regulations.

- Promote a strong culture of safety awareness and operational excellence.

Documentation and Reporting

- Maintain accurate records of outages, switching events, and maintenance activities.

- Prepare technical and operational reports as required by internal and regulatory authorities.

Training and Development

- Stay current with emerging technologies, regulatory changes, and best practices through ongoing training.

- Mentor junior operators and participate in professional development activities.

Qualifications

Education:

- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, or a related field required.

- Advanced degree preferred for senior-level positions.

Experience:

- Experience in distribution system operations, utility environments, or related engineering roles strongly preferred.

- Familiarity with power distribution equipment, SCADA systems, and field operations.

Certifications:

- NERC Certification or equivalent industry credentials preferred (may be required based on employer or region).

Technical Skills:

- Proficient in SCADA/DMS software, system analysis, and outage management tools.

- Strong understanding of electrical distribution principles, system protection, and control schemes.

Core Competencies:

- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

- Strong communication and decision-making abilities, especially under pressure.

- Commitment to safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

- Adaptable to rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, to maintain 24/7 operations.

Additional Notes

- This position may be filled by engineer or non-engineer candidates based on qualifications and experience.

- Do not limit contract companies to the number of candidate submissions due to SOPD testing requirements.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $39.00 - $40.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

- Relocation assistance

Work Location: In person