System Engineer I

Department: Engineering

FT/PT Status: Full Time

The anticipated start date for this position will be after January 1, 2026.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Objective:

Perform engineering planning and distribution system analyses, including power quality studies, long-range planning, and predictive modeling. Utilize AI-enabled Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) data to enhance system reliability and identify opportunities for increased efficiency. Turn metering data into practical insights that support decision-making and provide technical Engineering support across departments.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

- Planning and Controls

System Analysis and Modeling

- Leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and system-analysis tools such as Operations Analytics (OA), Distributed Engineering Workstation (DEW), and Meter Data Management (MDM) to improve system reliability and efficiency. Assist with the five-year work plan by performing system studies, phase balancing, voltage drop calculations, pole loading, sag calcs, etc. Responsibilities include assisting the Senior Engineer with preparing budgetary estimates and project timetables.

- Analyze outage data using the daily system status report (DSSR), power quality issues, and protection coordination studies to provide actionable recommendations.

- Develop and refine data models to support relay settings, fault location, and overall system reliability.

Design and Specifications

- Assist senior Engineer with developing and maintaining design standards for overhead and underground distribution systems, including reclosers, capacitor banks, switchgear, and regulators. Review and recommend new materials and technologies to improve reliability and efficiency. Evaluate vendor quotations and provide input for material purchasing decisions.

- Design Distribution layouts for residential and commercial construction projects, ensuring compliance with FKEC standards and regulatory requirements. Provide Engineering support and recommendations to Operations, Transmission, and Substation departments to ensure consistent application of best practices across projects.

Operations

Regular Responsibilities

- Serve as FKEC's Utility Coordinator for FKAA, Islamorada Wastewater, Key Largo Wastewater, City of Marathon, and FDOT, reviewing conflict drawings and resolving facility conflicts.

- Support Photovoltaic (PV) and Electric Vehicle (EV) review processes, while performing impact studies for sizing and voltage/capacity constraints. Provide technical guidance to Members and Contractors.

- Maintain and develop distribution design, construction, and operating standards in compliance with National Electric Safety Code (NESC), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and FKEC internal compliance.

- Assist with storm response, damage assessment, and post-event analyses to support Engineering and Operations.

- Investigate accidents, prepare reports for internal and insurance purposes, and recommend corrective actions.

Assignment Duties

- Coordinate, direct, and inspect work performed by contractors and engineering consultants, as needed.

- Promote a culture of Safety by following FKEC's Safety Program and Corporate safety goals.

- Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring timely and professional information sharing.

- Professional Conduct, demonstrating leadership, integrity, and respect in all interactions.

The above responsibilities are a guide and are not all-inclusive for the essential responsibilities of the position.

Additional Considerations:

- Sound working knowledge of electrical engineering principles, including distribution system design, equipment, and modeling software.

- Ability to analyze processes and implement quality-improvement solutions.

- Strong knowledge of computers and basic software.

- Ability to function without direct supervision.

- Ability to supervise, coach, and direct employees.

Marginal Responsibilities:

- Safety – Follow and promote FKEC's Safety Program and Corporate safety goals.

- Communications – Ensure all communications internally and externally are provided in a timely and professional manner. Must possess strong communication skills to interact with all other FKEC departments effectively.

- Professional Conduct – Model and encourage the pursuit of company values through examples of leadership, honesty, integrity, and respect.

- Perform other related or assigned duties as requested.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

- Minimum two (2) years of college education or equivalent desired, preferably in Engineering.

Experience:

- Two (2) to Five (5) years of experience in electrical system design and analysis.

- A background in electrical distribution systems is preferred.

- Must be technically skilled in computer-based analysis tools and able to learn new engineering and data analysis software.

- Role requires regular use of AI-enabled tools to support daily analysis and decision making.

Additional Requirements:

- Must have a valid Florida Driver's License.

- Must use cybersecurity best practices and use responsible conduct in online environments and while using email.

- Observe and practice all safety policies and rules.

- Extra hours may be necessary during emergencies or when the workload demands.

- Residency requirement: Worker for this position is not required to live within the FKEC service territory, but it is strongly recommended.

OTHER JOB INFORMATION (if applicable):

Working Conditions:

Worker requirements include occasional medium lifting, up to 50 pounds, as well as climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, grasping, feeling, and the ability to communicate effectively both in writing and verbally. Worker must be able to use fingers for activities like typing or using a computer. Workers are exposed to hazardous conditions, including proximity to moving mechanical parts, high electrical currents, working at high elevations, and exposure to extreme heat and outdoor environmental conditions.