Distribution Automation Engineer 2

Position Summary

The Distribution Automation Engineer 2 is a skilled position that assists within the Distribution Automation group. This position works with the implementation, testing, and maintenance of SCADA and all Distribution Automation Equipment

Responsibilities

Primary Position Responsibilities

• Maintains and troubleshoots the cooperative’s OSI SCADA system hardware and software.


• Assists in creation, modification, and maintaining databases, XML and C for design, implementation and troubleshooting of SCADA.


• Assists with designs and maintains the communications systems for DA equipment. DNP3 over IP, serial, 900 MHz and cellular.


• Programs RTU’s


• Programs, maintains, and tests DA equipment Controllers for field use (Reclosers, Capacitor and Regulator controls, and Fault Current Indicators)


• Assists with training appropriate personnel in operation and maintenance of SCADA, outage reporting, and communication equipment.


• Assists with the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Distribution Automation equipment.


• Keeps abreast of latest technology as reported in professional periodicals and journals.


• Attends meetings and conferences to be informed on latest equipment available.


• Programs, tests, and maintains 900 MHz radios & repeaters including equipment on Mesh Network


• Provides assistance to Dispatch with SCADA during regular time and on call after hours.


• Maintains a general knowledge of equipment and devices used in the field.


• Assists with field verification, operation, trouble shooting and testing of distribution devices.


• Assists with researching and procuring new, innovative, efficient, and cost-effective devices to be used in the field and providing training for these new devices.


• Assists with the programming of reclosers, capacitors, and regulators.


• Provides field data necessary to keep system maps current.


• Complies with established CoServ safety and operating rules, procedures and guidelines including reporting unsafe practices to a supervisor.


• Complies with established CoServ Information Security Handbook, policies, procedures, and guidelines including reporting suspected information security incidents to Tech Support.

Secondary Position Responsibilities

• Maintains department standards on a consistent basis


• Creates and maintains databases within Engineering & GIS software


• Attends power distribution conferences and other meetings to stay abreast of the latest developments in the transmission and distribution of electricity.


• Assist with analyzing failure and misoperation of system programming and field devices.


• Assists coworkers in Engineering Department


• Demonstrates self-motivation, ownership of job responsibilities, and being pro-active in seeking solutions for the department.


• Performs other duties and activities as directed.

Position Requirements

Education, Experience, and Certifications Required

• High School Diploma or G.E.D equivalency.


• Bachelor of Science from an ABET accredited university in Electrical, Civil, or Mechanical Engineering.


• 2 years’ experience in electric utility power distribution.

Education, Experience, and Certifications Preferred 

• Engineer In Training certification.


• 4 years’ experience in electric utility power distribution.

Skills and Abilities Required

• Able to learn and gain knowledge and use of CoServ’s GIS, Engineering Analysis, and SCADA Systems.


• Able to learn and gain understanding and utilization of NEC, NESC, IEEE, and OSHA requirements.


• Able to learn and gain understanding of city, county, and state permitting requirements.


• Able to learn and gain knowledge in computer software including Microsoft Suite products.


• Able to maintain accurate records and be proficient with technical details.


• Understand and carry out complex oral and written instructions.

Skills and Abilities Preferred

• Understanding of an electric distribution system; and a general knowledge of the equipment needed to build, maintain, and distribute power through that system.


• Ability to provide solutions to various system issues such as low voltage, overloads, improving power factor, and improving coordination of protective devices.

Physical Requirements 

• Works both in the office and outdoors.


• Ability to lift a minimum of 25 pounds.


• Drives company vehicle as needed.


• Operates office equipment such as a computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.


• Ability to sit for long periods of time.


• Works in potentially hazardous conditions caused by pets and wildlife in or near the work site.


• Works in areas with possible exposure to poison oak, poison ivy, and insect stings.

Other Requirements

• Must have and maintain a valid Texas driver's license