Lead Engineer - DER Planning; Hybrid

DER Planning Lead Engineer

The DER Planning Lead Engineer provides distribution-focused subject matter expertise in DER power system studies and project development. This role leads technical reviews and modeling activities associated with generation and energy storage facilities seeking interconnection to the distribution system. The position requires the modeling, analysis, and planning-level design of distribution line and substation facilities within the electric power system. Typical studies include evaluating the impacts of distribution-connected generation and energy storage resources using Synergi Electric, PSCAD, and other planning tools.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain distribution system power flow models for evaluating DER interconnections in accordance with System Planning Standards
• Conduct technical assessments of proposed solutions associated with the integration of DERs and associated impacts on the ISO-NE regional system.
• Collaborate with Distribution and Transmission System Planning, Distribution Engineering, Asset Management, Operations, Environmental, Siting, Permitting, and other stakeholders to identify planning needs and develop solutions
• Verify the technical feasibility and soundness of proposed plans using industry-accepted engineering methods and practices
• Develop primary and alternative mitigation solutions for identified thermal, voltage, protection, stability, and reliability concerns
• Perform steady-state and dynamic analyses of distribution-connected DERs in accordance with Company planning standards.
• Support Pre-Application Report reviews and technical evaluations of interconnection applications, including guidance on feasibility considerations, study requirements, and complex interconnection issues
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to engineers performing DER interconnection studies
• Conduct peer reviews of engineering and provide coaching and developmental feedback to staff engineers
• Support performance management activities, including mid-year and annual reviews of assigned staff engineers
• Represent Eversource on industry, regulatory, and stakeholder working groups related to DER integration and distribution planning
• Serve as a trusted technical resource by independently identifying risks and opportunities, proposing solutions, and driving resolution of complex DER interconnection and planning challenges.
• Participate with ISO-NE and neighboring utilities in the preparation of regional distribution and substation expansion studies
• Partner with engineers and stakeholders across System Planning, Distribution Engineering, Protection & Control, Electric Operations, and external organizations to perform analyses and provide technical support for DER interconnection
• Support the delivery of Eversource products and services to increase the interconnection of generation and energy storage resources and meet customer needs through technical leadership and engineering expertise.
• Prepare Project Authorization Forms (PAFs) and other internal authorization documents; present recommendations at Company review meetings
• Participate on cross-functional teams to develop engineering solutions, improve customer experience, and support business objectives
• Clearly and effectively communicate the results of analyses, recommendations, and action plans both verbally and in writing to internal and external stakeholders.
• Perform storm restoration and emergency response assignments as required

Technical Knowledge/Skill/Education/

Licenses/Certifications:

• Strong understanding of electric power system principles, including distributed generation, energy storage, reliability, load flow, short-circuit analysis, flicker, voltage regulation, stability, transients, power factor, and losses
• Knowledge of transmission and distribution system planning practices, standards, and regulatory requirements
• Experience using power system modeling and simulation software to perform steady-state power flow, voltage, short-circuit, stability, and electromagnetic transient analyses.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise initiative, and lead complex technical efforts with minimal direction.
• Demonstrated ability to influence outcomes, build effective working relationships, exercise sound engineering judgment, and drive complex technical issues to resolution across organizational boundaries.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Commitment to Eversource's Codes of Conduct, Business Ethics, Environmental, and Diversity Policies

Education:

Requires a Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems or related. Advanced degree preferred.

Experience :

Minimum of eight years of relevant experience in electric utility engineering, power system planning, DER integration, or a related field. Demonstrated technical leadership and mentoring experience preferred. Experience with DER hosting capacity analysis, inverter-based resources, non-wires alternatives, and advanced…