Distribution DER Modeling & Analysis Engineer -Principal

Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing complex engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient, and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

About the role

The Distribution Modeling and Analysis Department is seeking a motivated team member to perform engineering functions related to Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and advanced distribution system studies as the complexity of system studies grows with the increasing integration of DERs and EVs, as well as evolving interconnection requirements and planning criteria. Candidates with experience in DER Interconnections, Distribution Planning, Distribution Engineering, Transmission functions, or utility operations are encouraged to apply. Knowledge of the CYME software suite is a key function of this team. System reliability and protection coordination skills are a plus. Familiarity with Smartsheet, Power BI, and programming or databases (such as Python, SQL/Oracle, and/or SAS) is also strongly desired, though candidates without these skills are still encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Supporting the analysis, methodology, and study of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).
• Evaluating new technologies and participating in industry forums related to DER for the Distribution Planning and Analysis function.
• Developing and upkeeping AEP Distribution’s DER interconnection policies, standards, and requirements.
• Improving planning criteria, load forecasting methodologies, and project prioritization processes.
• Leading efforts to enhance and automate system analysis capabilities.
• Developing training materials to ensure consistency and scalability across business units.
• Providing regulatory and policy support regarding technical issues related to DER interconnections and operations.
• Supporting distribution engineering CYME model creation.
• Supporting and enhancing key internal software tools including CYME, DGP, and CSII.
• Collaborating with Distribution/Transmission Planning, DER interconnection, Operating Company, and Operations Engineering, IRP, and Economic Forecasting teams.

Technical Expertise

• Possesses intermediate-level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis.
• Demonstrates competency in 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).
• Exhibits ability to understand interrelationships between systems and component equipment.
• Demonstrates ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.

Leadership & Guidance

• Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entity as necessary to complete routine activities.
• Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees.
• Follows policies, practices, standards, and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies.
• Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees.

Planning & Organization Ability

• Coordinates the development of input necessary to prioritize deliverables and forecast costs for routine projects, improvements, requisitions, etc.
• Uses scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities.
• Initiates corrective action when project objectives are not being met.

Problem Solving & Initiative

• Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin.
• Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine.
• Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.

Communication

• Develops, reviews, or presents technical reports such as improvement requisitions, studies, and analyses in a clear, concise, and effective fashion.

Interpersonal Skills

• Is an active team member.
• Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system.
• Identifies key stakeholders.
• Uses informal networks to get things done.
• Resolves conflict and builds consensus.

Decision Making

• Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures.
• Makes decisions that affect the work of the team.
• Is aware of risks.
• Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.

Business Awareness & Characteristics

• Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit.
• Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process.
• Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem-solving.
• Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.

Requirements

Engineer SG7

• Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* along with 2 or more years of related engineering experience.
• Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.
• Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• Acceptable alternative: Bachelor’s degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET-accredited Bachelor's program.

Engineer Senior SG8

• 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*; or
• 2 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico is encouraged and preferred.
• Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• Acceptable alternative: Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET-accredited Bachelor's program.

Engineer Principal SG9

• 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*; or
• 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico is preferred unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP.
• Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• Acceptable alternative: Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET-accredited Bachelor's program.
• VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET-accredited program.

*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Location

This role sits onsite in New Albany, Ohio.

Pay

• Engineer SG7: $89,000 - $110,000
• Engineer Senior SG8: $110,000 - $129,000
• Engineer Principal SG9: $116,000 - $151,000

Benefits

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Physical Demand Level

S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently (activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.