Metering Applications Engineer

About the role

The Engineering Department at Bandera Electric Cooperative (BEC) and BEC Fiber is seeking a Metering Applications Engineer to lead and execute engineering activities. This position involves providing accurate data analysis and recommendations to ensure adequate metering of the electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and assistance in the engineering activities of the cooperative.
• Oversee all metering applications, activities, technical support services such as monitoring calibration, proper selection of metering devices, associated current and potential transformers/transducers, the associated testing and repair, and technical assessments.
• Aid in developing and documenting manufacturing assembly processes, specifications, procedures, product and cost analysis, technical material to support bid documentation, and providing technical training for internal resources.
• Guide and develop energy efficiency and sustainability provided by the Apolloware DERMS and metering platforms.
• Analyze large data sets to find troubled or optimized energy usages schemes and make recommendations for a resilient and reliable electric grid.
• Oversee all functions regarding the BEC lighting, including current and future inventory, light standards, light sensors, installation/maintenance processes, etc.
• Work closely with other engineers to evaluate and analyze the electric grid and its associated functions, including transmission, substation, and distribution system.
• Manage projects as assigned, including all aspects for planning, design, construction, and operation.
• Work closely with system operations to ascertain the availability and functioning of the metering system during normal and outages scenarios.
• Cooperate with the optical fiber communications group to integrate next generation grid devices.
• Regularly observe Aclara meter alerts to ensure meters are functioning as intended and to be on the latest software updates.
• Effectively and efficiently address and assist others in addressing member and employee questions and complaints.
• Utilize a variety of engineering planning and designing software, such as Aclara, Apolloware, or Milsoft for project support functions.
• Review new and existing technologies and evaluate trends in the metering and metering support industry and the associated software platforms.
• Recommend and integrate changes to the current practices in the meter installation, monitoring, and billing process.
• Provide guidance and/or assistance in the maintenance, upgrade, and integration of the Outage Management, dispatch systems by working closely with engineering personnel, other departments, manufacturers, and vendors.
• Manage projects and schedules for smart grid applications and energy topics and create new business development initiatives.
• Proficient to operate BEC’s enterprise software, such as NiSC.
• Assist in budgets and special projects for the department.
• Represent the Cooperative at local, state, and national organizations and meetings.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Engineering License (Optional).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an electric utility system, primary and secondary metering and service equipment, and AMI systems technology is desired.

Qualifications and Abilities

• Knowledge of large data collection methods, analyses, and verification of data.
• Knowledge of the National Electric Code (NEC) and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC).
• Thorough knowledge of electric metering safety requirements and safe work practices.
• Ability to provide recommendations in improving the metering systems.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively on market transforming projects and programs that promote future technologies, energy efficiency and sustainability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to details.
• Organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong computer skills.