Engineer I – Renewable Engineering (DER Integration Engineer)

Job Purpose

The Engineer, Grid Modernization and Renewable Integration will serve as a strategic technical leader within MGE’s Energy Production team, advancing electrification, grid modernization, and distributed energy resources (DERs) in support of MGE’s net-zero carbon goal. This individual will provide subject-matter expertise and manage complex projects in transportation and building electrification, renewable generation, battery storage, and related technologies. The role requires technical proficiency, cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to align customer-focused initiatives with regulatory, operational, and financial objectives.

- Lead evaluation and deployment of electrification and renewable technologies, grid-interactive devices, and customer energy platforms.

- Set technical direction for pilots and programs, ensuring scalability and alignment with decarbonization goals.

- Design and implement programs across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors in collaboration with internal departments.

- Oversee MGE-owned EV charging, wind, solar, and battery storage assets to ensure safety, interoperability, and performance.

- Manage vendor selection, contract negotiations, and technology partnerships.

- Represent MGE in statewide/national forums and build long-term partnerships with customers, municipalities, and stakeholders.

- Provide technical support for major customer projects and collaborate on community education initiatives.

- Communicate technical and regulatory concepts for executives, regulators, and public audiences.

- Document and update EV, PV, storage, and wind MGE specifications and standards.

Behavioral Competencies

- Tech Savvy – Anticipates and adopts innovations in digital and technology applications.

- Manages Complexity – Makes sense of complex , high-quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to solve problems.

- Strategic Mindset – Sees ahead to future possibilities and translates them into strategies.

- Communicates Effectively – Tailors messages to diverse audiences.

- Persuades – Uses compelling arguments to gain support and commitment.

- Plans and Aligns – Prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals.

Skills

- Power systems engineering and renewable integration (advanced).

- Distribution planning, DER modeling, and grid modernization tools (intermediate–advanced).

- Regulatory and compliance knowledge (intermediate).

- Project management and stakeholder engagement (intermediate–advanced).

- Data analysis, modeling, and simulations (advanced).

- Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills (advanced).

- Vendor management and contract negotiation (intermediate–advanced).

Education

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

- Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain preferred.

- Advanced degree (MS) in renewable energy, power systems, or related discipline desirable.

Preferred Experience

- Experience in utility engineering, renewable integration, or grid modernization.

- Demonstrated experience in DER interconnection studies, distribution planning, or renewable project implementation.

- Experience with regulatory agencies, standards bodies, and cross-functional technical teams preferred.