Transmission Planning Engineer

Transmission Planning Engineer

Number of Positions: 2

Work Location: Butte, MT

Pay range: $73,000 to $139,300 per year (for a more detailed pay range please see below)

Planning Engineer I - Starting Range: $73,000 - $97,200

Planning Engineer II - Starting Range: $92,900 - $111,500

Planning III - Starting Range: $104,500 - $125,400

Planning Engineer IV - Starting Range: $116,100 - $139,300

Employment Status: Regular Full-Time

External candidates apply at northwesternenergy.com

Internal candidates apply through iConnect.

About this position:

We're seeking a Transmission Planning Engineer ready to take on the challenge of shaping tomorrow's electric grid. In this exciting new opportunity, you'll be at the forefront of innovation-developing creative engineering solutions to address the evolving complexities of today's energy landscape while helping design a smarter, more resilient grid for the future.

As a key member of our dynamic planning team, you'll conduct transmission planning studies and support critical initiatives across Montana and South Dakota. This role offers the perfect balance of independent problem-solving and collaborative teamwork, ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, forward-thinking environment.

If you're passionate about energy innovation and want to make a tangible impact, this is your chance to be part of something transformative.

We offer great benefits:

NorthWestern Energy is a fully regulated electric and natural gas utility serving Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. We employ over 1,600 amazing people and serve over 800,000 customers who are our neighbors in our communities. We are a top employer and offer competitive benefits, including:

Benefits may vary by position or as negotiated as part of a collective bargaining agreement.

About this job:

Am I right for this job? Here's the success profile:

Planning Engineer I - Starting Range: $73,000 - $97,200

A Bachelor's degree in engineering is required for all levels, with a preference for Electrical Engineering. This role offers the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of electric transmission system studies and gain familiarity with the topology of the Montana and South Dakota transmission networks. Develop an understanding of compliance standards from NERC, WECC, and FERC. Collaborate with experienced engineers on power flow simulations, fault-duty analysis, and PV (power-voltage) studies.

Planning Engineer II - Starting Range: $92,900 - $111,500

Possesses intermediate-level knowledge of transmission systems and independently conducts power-flow studies. Demonstrates a solid understanding of guidelines, policies, practices, and standards related to transmission planning. Collaborates with peers to perform transient stability analyses. Actively pursuing Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is preferred.

Planning Engineer III - Starting Range: $104,500 - $125,400

Demonstrated expertise in power-flow analysis, scripting languages, and transient stability studies. Experience with integrated resource planning is preferred. Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities, with a proven ability to mentor and train junior engineers effectively. A Professional Engineer (PE) license is preferred.

Planning Engineer IV - Starting Range: $116,100 - $139,300

An advanced degree and/or Professional Engineer (PE) license is preferred and may be required for specific roles. Demonstrates strategic expertise in planning engineering, with the ability to align technical initiatives with broader organizational goals, such as integrated resource planning. Recognized as a subject matter expert in planning tools and methodologies. Capable of producing highly complex designs and deliverables, while also conducting thorough peer reviews to ensure quality and consistency across team outputs.

Requisition #4778

Posting Dates: July 24, 2025 through Open Until Filled

Department/Division: Transmission

Employment Physical: Not Required

Drug Test: Not Required

Background Check: Required

Relocation Benefit: Negotiable

Telecommuting: Part-time Negotiable within NorthWestern Energy Service Territory

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal or state laws and statutes. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act, should you have a disability that requires assistance and/or reasonable accommodation with the job application process, please contact the Human Resources department at 1-800-245-6977 or at job.inquiries@northwestern.com