Eng Assoc - Engineer (Real-time Advanced Application Engineer)

American Electric Power•Salem, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing entry level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives. The overall purpose of this position is to provide engineering expertise to plan, implement, and maintain distribution automation control schemes utilizing the latest technology in deployment of grid modernization technology. This includes Distribution Automation Circuit Reconfiguration (DACR), Volt VAR Optimization (VVO), Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), and Sensors. These positions will perform the logical programming and focus on optimizing performance of the distribution system in conjunction with AEP Distribution Engineers and System Planning Engineers. Grid Management investments are expected to grow rapidly as the transformation to a more modern grid ramps up over the next several years. This position will engage with other groups centrally at AEP Service Corp and with core groups at the Operating Companies. There will be interaction with multiple teams throughout AEP, which include, but are not limited to Telecom, SCADA, Station Engineering, Distribution Dispatch, Distribution Reliability, Distribution Planning, management and a wide range of field personnel. Distribution automation control schemes utilize the latest technology and result in higher reliability, lower cost, and energy efficient use of the distribution system. Distribution automation controllers require programming, check out of the programming, on-going maintenance of the programming as circuit topography changes and emergency maintenance if the system is not performing properly. The successful candidate should possess good written and oral communications skills, be able to work in self-directed environments, possess strong leadership skills, be willing to work in integrated, cross functional teams, be flexible to and supportive of change, be able to multi-task, be willing to travel when needed, be available for support calls sometimes after normal work hours, and be an advocate for grid modernization deployments.

Requirements

This is an entry level position for new graduates with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET
Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.
VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program
Adaptability, Work Standards, Execution, Technical and Professional Knowledge, Lives the AEP Values

Nice To Haves

Preferred minimum experience is 2-4 years in Distribution and Transmission areas.
Knowledge of substation design and the electric utility grid operations is desired.
Familiarity with SCADA systems, including, but not limited to: RTU's, front-end processors, communications interfaces, and DMS interfaces is desired.
Experience with utility integrated communications networks is desired.
Experience with circuit modeling, power flow algorithms, and project management skills are desired.
Experience with distribution level overcurrent coordination and with Distribution Automation is desired.
Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico is encouraged and preferred.
Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

Responsibilities

Work with the teams in AEP to engineer and implement distribution automation control schemes for DACR; also known more commonly as FLISR – Fault Location Isolation and Service Restoration
Work with the teams in AEP to engineer and implement Volt Var Optimization schemes for VVO
Develop configurations and programming for remote terminal units (RTUs) for grid modernization equipment integration into SCADA
Work with operating company engineering, construction, and operation’s groups to select and install optimum equipment to implement grid modernization technologies
Provide distribution automation controller logic programming, testing, optimization, and maintenance to provide functionality designed by reliability and system planning engineers
Develop, document, and maintain standards for grid modernization equipment, schemes, and architectures incorporating cyber secure designs
Coordinate point assignments, commissioning, testing, and maintenance of automation and SCADA systems with SCADA analysts and vendors
Participate in industry associations (IEEE, EPRI, etc.) to interact with other industry leaders to be current on the latest grid modernization technologies that can be applied to the distribution system
Work with vendors and Transmission and Distribution operations groups and engage in training to be current on the most effective use of technologies
Work with operating companies to develop the needed skilled workforce including training of existing employees and addition of new skilled employees to install, operate, and maintain grid modernization technologies
Complete safety training and utilize safe work practices in all work