Associate Consultant Distribution Planning Engineer – DER/DG Interconnection & Grid-Mod

About the role

Distribution Planning Engineer looking to deepen your expertise in DER/DG and take the next step into an Associate role. In this role, you'll help shape how distributed energy resources (DER)/distributed generation (DG) – including solar, energy storage, wind, and emerging technologies – are integrated into the utility distribution system. You'll work on meaningful studies, collaborate across disciplines, and play a key role in advancing grid modernization efforts.

What You'll Do

• Perform DER/DG interconnection and distribution planning studies, including hosting capacity, power flow, voltage analysis, and protection coordination.
• Evaluate DER impacts (solar, battery storage, EVs) and identify system constraints and mitigation strategies.
• Develop and maintain distribution system models using tools such as CYME, Synergi, or similar platforms.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (transmission, substation, distribution design, automation, etc.) to support integrated planning efforts.
• Support client-facing project work, including technical discussions and study reviews.
• Contribute to the quality and consistency of engineering deliverables across projects.
• Support knowledge sharing across the team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
• ~ 2+ years of experience in electric utility or distribution planning.
• Experience with distribution modeling and engineering analysis tools (e.g. CYME).
• Experience supporting DER/DG interconnection or planning studies (feasibility, system impact, or similar).
• Ability to travel up to 5% as required to support clients and projects.
• FE/EIT (or ability to obtain).

Preferred Qualifications

• CYMTCC, Synergi, or ASPEN OneLiner.
• PE preferred.
• Experience with Distribution Automation work, ex: FLISR/DACR/VVO/Perfect Power.
• Experience with large-scale DER studies (1 MW-10 MW) including feasibility studies, system impact studies, energy storage, and cluster studies.
• Knowledge of software automation and scripting.
• Experience creating protective device settings files.
• Understanding of 8760 simulations in LoadSEER or a similar software.
• Experience with grid modernization challenges including FLISR, electrification, protection & control, sectionalizing and wildfire mitigation studies.