Intern Electric Distribution Planning

About the Role

NiSource is currently seeking a Summer Electric Distribution Planning Intern. Successful applicants will become integral members of the department while learning within a team environment, completing meaningful tasks and collaborating with team members and leaders on important projects. This position will be a great opportunity for the candidate desiring to launch their career in the field. Successful applicants will build professional relationships with other interns and all levels of NiSource personnel while participating in rewarding professional development exercises and fun, team-building activities. Interns will obtain a broad overview of NiSource's operations and current events in the utilities industry. This is a 12-week summer internship program starting in May 2027, for students entering their junior or senior year in fall 2027. The role is based in Merrillville, IN. Candidates must reside within 50 miles of the reporting location to be eligible.

Job Summary

The Intern Engineer is an engineering (EE/EET) student who works under direct supervisory review on a daily basis. In a learning position, the Intern engineer will receive on the job training assisting a Distribution Planning Engineer. Assignments are designed to develop technical work knowledge, critical thinking, and safe work practices. The Intern Engineer will work with experienced engineers to assist in the development and updating of various electric distribution system databases and studies. Results will help determine the utility system needs, equipment configurations, and timing and execution of distribution projects. This would include evaluating the operations of existing NIPSCO electrical system equipment as well as review requests for new business load additions and distributed energy generators such as solar and wind customers, covered by NIPSCO's net meter and co-gen related activities. Intern will use computer modeling to assess system adequacy and to identify system needs for improvements, and will gain insight into distribution system modeling, planning techniques, and overall utility operations, along with how renewable energy technologies are integrating into the existing electric grid. Intern will become familiar with CYME modeling software, how planning is performed, operations evaluation criteria, and will assist the team with its daily work activities.

Responsibilities

• Collecting and analyzing data and reviewing records
• Assisting with daily work activities of the Distribution Planning team
• Developing and updating electric distribution system databases and studies
• Evaluating operations of existing NIPSCO electrical system equipment
• Reviewing requests for new business load additions and distributed energy generators (solar and wind customers) covered by NIPSCO's net meter and co-gen related activities
• Using computer modeling (CYME) to assess system adequacy and identify system needs for improvements

Required Qualifications

• Current student of an ABET accredited, four-year engineering program
• Must have completed at least two years of undergraduate study
• Ability to work 40 hrs/week
• Proficiency with PC applications and strong skills with Python and MS Excel & Access
• Proven communication skills (verbal and written)
• Interpersonal skills effective in communication with internal and external customers
• Quick learner with willingness to remain flexible in various work assignments
• Possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship now or in the future
• Safety consciousness required

Additional Information

As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.