Power Systems Engineer

About the role

Tacoma Power's Generation division is seeking a Power Systems Engineer to join their team. This entry-level to mid-level Engineering position offers growth potential within the organization. Working under the guidance of Professional Licensed Civil Engineers, this role focuses on implementing and coordinating the Dam Safety Surveillance & Monitoring Plan (DSSMP) for Tacoma’s seven High Hazard Dams. The DSSMP monitors dam stability and performance, particularly identifying initiation of Potential Failure Modes (PFM).

The ideal candidate is curious, self-driven, and values collaboration across diverse backgrounds. While hydropower or dam safety experience is beneficial, it is not required. This position supports public safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance for Tacoma Power’s hydroelectric facilities. The role requires conducting site visits to Tacoma’s dams, working from the Tacoma Public Utilities office at least three days per week, and residing within a maximum of 2 hours from Tacoma, WA.

Responsibilities

• Support the maintenance, coordination, and implementation of technical monitoring, inspection, and data collection programs for hydropower systems.
• Participate in field inspections, site visits, and evaluations to verify conditions, document observations, and identify unusual or concerning trends.
• Assist in organizing, collecting, and performing initial review of technical data, including preparing charts, graphs, photos, and summary reports for engineering evaluation.
• Provide support in the selection, installation, verification, and documentation of instrumentation or field-monitoring equipment for performance evaluation.
• Contribute to the development, updating, and delivery of training materials and programs related to monitoring procedures, field practices, and technical workflows.
• Assist with engineering analyses, calculations, and technical investigations supporting infrastructure condition, performance, and reliability assessments.
• Support the preparation, organization, and maintenance of technical documentation, regulatory materials, and internal program guidance.
• Provide preliminary technical observations and communicate findings to senior engineering staff for further review and decision-making.
• Participate in coordinating consultant-performed work, including reviewing deliverables, tracking progress, and supporting scope, schedule, and budget management.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, natural resources, operations, and technical staff) to support safe, reliable, and compliant operation of Tacoma Power’s hydroelectric dams.
• Maintain awareness of updates in applicable regulations, standards, guidelines, and best practices, and support their integration into program materials.
• Participate in professional development activities to strengthen skills in engineering analysis, monitoring practices, and infrastructure evaluation.

Requirements

Power Systems Engineer

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a directly related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of engineering experience in a power utility or similar field.
• Washington State Driver’s License.
• Equivalency: 1 year of experience = 1 year of education.

Power Systems Engineer, Associate

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a directly related field.
• 0–1 years of experience depending upon assignment.
• Washington State Driver’s License.
• Equivalency: 1 year of experience = 1 year of education.

Preferred Qualifications

• ABET-accredited civil engineering program.
• Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.

Skills

• Basic understanding of concrete structures, soil mechanics, and hydraulics.
• Experience in heavy civil, geotechnical, structural, or hydropower-related engineering.
• Strong observational and organizational skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to produce coherent documents for external agencies.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Ability to analyze and display data to identify statistical trends and relationships using off-the-shelf software or self-written code.

Pay

• Power Systems Engineer: $113,568.00 – $159,910.40 annual salary.
• Power Systems Engineer, Associate: $98,280.00 – $138,320.00 annual salary.

About Tacoma Power

Tacoma Power is an almost 100% hydroelectric, municipally-owned public power utility serving approximately 180,000 customers. It is one of three operating divisions of Tacoma Public Utilities, alongside Tacoma Water and Tacoma Rail. Tacoma is recognized as one of the most livable and walkable cities in the country, offering a blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. The city provides abundant opportunities for outdoor activities, including biking, running, and hiking, and is home to several institutes of higher learning, cultural attractions, and affordable housing.

The City of Tacoma is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, actively seeking candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures to build a vibrant and equitable community.