Engineer – Transmission Planning - West

Travel and Work Location

Alabama Power Corporate HQ (Birmingham, AL) Flexible work schedule and hybrid remote work are available. Minimal travel required (less than 25%).

Department Overview

This is one of the most exciting and dynamic times in recent history for the power industry as we evaluate and implement renewable energy and emerging technologies to build the future of energy for the advancement of our customers and communities.  Transmission planning plays a critical role in Southern Company’s success in achieving this goal by continuously developing a reliable, flexible, and resilient transmission grid that meets the needs of our future.

At Southern Company, our transmission planning organization encompasses all aspects of planning the transmission system for our subsidiary retail electric utilities in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. This includes expertise in numerous areas such as steady-state and dynamic power system analysis, power quality and transient analysis, load modeling and base case development, annual transmission expansion plan development, reliability standards compliance, economic development transmission service evaluations, OATT transmission service requests, generator interconnection and designation studies, generation RFP procurements, unit retirement and new build evaluations, regional planning and coordination with external utilities, interface analysis, GMD and EMP analysis, transmission policy and regulatory, industry committee leadership, and tools and technology innovation.  While each group within transmission planning has a targeted function, we foster an environment of cross-functional teamwork and collaboration and are committed to working with our employees on career and personal development in multiple areas of their interest.  As a vertically integrated utility, we also have the unique opportunity to work closely with teams from across our organization in all the major business sectors.

Position Details

We currently have two positions available on the TP-West team.  This team is responsible for leading and performing transmission planning studies for Alabama Power (APC) and Mississippi Power (MPC) in order to develop the annual transmission expansion plans, evaluate economic development transmission service requests, meet NERC compliance requirements, and provide support to transmission operations. Each engineer is responsible for leading a specific region(s) and coordinating on all associated transmission planning efforts within their area.  They also have the opportunity to lead solution teams and develop transmission project proposals as well as participate in the justification, approval, and budget prioritization of their proposed projects.  This team works closely with operating company transmission and project management, design, economic development, and transmission operations.

Job Responsibilities

Lead and perform power system modeling and analysis including steady-state load flow thermal and voltage studies. Develop system-wide power flow models and assumptions. Coordinate with multiple groups and internal customers within Southern Company and the Operating Companies. Coordinate studies with neighboring transmission systems.  Develop and coordinate reliable, innovative, and cost-effective transmission solutions including multiple alternatives. Effectively present informative reports and presentations to internal and external customers at various management levels related to system constraints and required improvement projects. Lead and participate on solution teams and other initiatives to determine transmission project feasibility, scope, and timing. Provide technical expertise and leadership in industry committees and initiatives. Research special technical issues impacting the electric power system. Provide automation and programming development and support for analysis tools.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET accredited institution is required (Electrical Engineering preferred).  Master’s degree in engineering or business is desirable. Professional Engineering License is desirable.

Work Experience

Experience in transmission planning and operations is preferred. Experience in transmission design, maintenance, and protection and controls is desirable. Experience in transmission project management, estimating, and scheduling is desirable. Experience in generation/resource planning is desirable. Experience in electrical power system modeling and analysis is desirable. Experience in generator (IBR and/or conventional) operations, control system modeling and analysis is desirable.

Skills and Knowledge

Power system analysis with common industry accepted tools such as PSS/E, PSLF, CAPE, ASPEN, EMTP, PSCAD, TARA, VSAT, PowerWorld, SINCAL, PSCAD, etc. Strong time management and organizational skills required to balance multiple projects simultaneously and adhere to deadlines Excellent oral and written communication skills Ability to effectively present complex topics Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and databases NERC reliability standards acumen FERC transmission policy and regulation acumen Working knowledge of programming languages (Python, C#, and Visual Basic.net) and data visualization tools is desirable

Behavioral Attributes

Self-motivated, results-oriented, and innovative Analytical and detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills Works well in a team environment (both in-person and virtual) Proactive in training and onboarding in a hybrid or virtual environment Focus on process improvement, training, and mentoring others Adaptable to change Strong customer focus Exhibits Southern Company’s “Our Values” (Safety First, Unquestionable Trust, Superior Performance, and Total Commitment). Safety First - We believe the safety of our employees and customers is paramount. We will perform and maintain every job, every day, safely. Unquestionable Trust - Honesty, respect, fairness and integrity drive our behavior. We keep our promises, and ethical behavior is our standard.  Superior Performance - We are dedicated to superior performance throughout our business. We will continue our strong focus on innovative solutions, improving how we run our business and our commitment to environmental stewardship.  Total Commitment - We are committed to the success of our employees, our customers, our shareholders and our communities. We fully embrace, respect, and value our differences and diversity.