Distribution Planning Engineer

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Distribution Planning Engineer

The Distribution Planning Engineer leads and supports planning the distribution network with a focus on safety, capacity, reliability, and resiliency. This role utilizes advanced technology and data sets to model, load forecast, and plan the distribution network. This role will identify risks present on the network, create solutions, and calculate their impact technically and financially. The role requires close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders such as other engineering groups, field crews, regulatory, FP&A, and drafting. This role will provide technical expertise to guide the business on new technologies including Non Wires Alternatives (NWA’s), Smart Grid solutions, advanced forecasting methodologies, grid resiliency programs, and customer projects.

Responsibilities:

• System Modeling: Develop multi-year (1, 3, 5, 10, 20), multi-scenario, power flow system models supporting system analysis, and integrated planning efforts Develop interfaces from modeling databases to SAP, PSSE, CYME, SCADA/Pi, AMI, and GIS. Execute on the AES four phase approach to achieve industry leader status in system modeling.
• Modeling Architecture: Lead the development and maintenance of distribution modeling equipment databases and systems ensuring processes are in place to make updates as equipment is added, removed, or modified.
• Solving Complex Issues: Solve diverse system modeling problems and complete extensive analysis. Utilize analytical techniques necessary to handle assignments of moderate complexity. (e.g., by dividing the problem into component steps, and performing the analysis necessary to complete each step). Analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.
• Strategy: Lead long-term power flow modeling strategy and standard process development for AES Indiana and AES Ohio. Conduct macro-level and micro-level industry and firm analysis of industry trends and map out strategic short and long-term business plans based on the advanced and long-range forecasting trends derived from insights using AES processes and tools. .
• External Modeling Liaison: Lead system modeling discussions with external entities like the Ohio PUCO, Indiana IURC, PJM, MISO, and others as needed, for strategic regulatory discussions around the changing system models, impacts to the grid, and possible new business models.
• Non-wires Alternatives (NWAs) Analysis: Provide power flow models to determine the feasibility of NWAs, participation in the development of NWA sections in siting applications, help implementing NWAs, if appropriate.
• People Management: Work closely with AES Indiana and Ohio transmission and distribution simulation and analysis engineers to develop annual assumptions and network models that coincide with available demand forecast data. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to scope projects.
• Other Responsibilities: Participate in system modeling industry groups and conferences; remain up to date with the latest modeling trends and research. Provide leadership on issues relating to system modeling and research. Present to AES Indiana and Ohio leadership key forecasting modeling trends occurring and how it may impact our existing business model and open up opportunities to future business models.

Who You Are

The successful candidate should be someone who meets the following required qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, or other related technical discipline from an accredited college or university required, preferably with an emphasis in power systems or energy systems.
• Three (3) or more years of experience in distribution planning, transmission planning, or related utility engineering role
• Understanding of electrical engineering concepts such as power factor, losses, generator basics, power system design and architecture
• Experience in system modeling and basic computer programming
• Demonstrated leadership ability to effectively supervise and direct the work of assigned personnel, external employees, and the ability to effectively and professionally deal with coworkers and customers is required.

Desired Qualifications:

• Team player
• Strong analytical skills, leadership, and communication skills
• Excellent communication, collaboration and influencing skills at all levels of the organization
• Proficient presentation skills, diplomacy and facilitation skills covering large and small group forums ranging from technical to non-technical audiences at all levels of corporate hierarchy
• Track record of leading and managing teams and delivering against tight deadlines in fast-paced and demanding environments
• Highly motivated self-starter with the ability and willingness to take initiative and champion process improvement
• Working knowledge of MISO, PJM, and distribution modeling practices
• Analyzing large volumes of SCADA and AMI data using statistical and data analysis tools

Location Requirements: ability to commute to Dayton, OH office location is required.

AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer who is committed to building strength and delivering long-term sustainability through diversity and inclusion. Respecting all backgrounds, differences and perspectives enables us to improve the lives of our people, customers, suppliers, contractors, and the communities in which we live and work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, race, national origin, ethnicity, age, religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. E-Verify Notice: AES will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's I-9 to confirm work authorization.