Metering Applications Engineer

Overview

Bandera Electric Cooperative (BEC) and BEC Fiber are seeking a Metering Applications Engineer within the Engineering Department. The Metering Application Engineer leads and executes engineering activities to ensure the electrical system meets present and future requirements. The role provides data analysis and recommendations to Engineering and other departments, guaranteeing adequate metering for current and future needs. The position involves analyzing complex business problems related to outage management, dispatch systems, energy efficiency and sustainability, distributed generation interconnections, and engineering planning systems.

• Provide guidance and assistance in the engineering activities of the cooperative.
• Oversee metering applications, activities, technical support services such as monitoring calibration, selection of metering devices, associated current and potential transformers/transducers, testing and repair, and technical assessments.
• Assist in developing and documenting manufacturing assembly processes, specifications, procedures, product and cost analyses, technical material to support bid documentation, and providing technical training for internal resources.
• Guide and develop energy efficiency and sustainability provided by the Apollo ware DERMS and metering platforms; focus on metering and verification services supporting demand side management and research projects on distributed generation, energy storage, HVAC systems, pumps, and related systems.
• Analyze large data sets to identify troubled or optimized energy usage schemes and recommend solutions for a resilient and reliable electric grid.
• Oversee all lighting functions, including current and future inventory, light standards, light sensors, installation/maintenance processes, etc.
• Collaborate with other engineers to evaluate the electric grid and related functions (transmission, substation, distribution).
• Manage projects from planning through construction and operation.
• Coordinate with system operations to verify metering system availability during normal and outage scenarios.
• Cooperate with the optical fiber communications group to integrate next-generation grid devices.
• Monitor Aclara meters for alerts, ensure proper functioning, and apply software updates.
• Address member and employee questions and concerns promptly and effectively.
• Utilize engineering planning and design software (e.g., Aclara, Apollo ware, Milsoft) for project support.
• Review new and existing technologies; evaluate trends in metering and related software platforms.
• Recommend and integrate changes to meter installation, monitoring, and billing processes.
• Provide guidance and assistance in maintenance, upgrades, and integration of the Outage Management and Dispatch systems by collaborating with engineering personnel, other departments, manufacturers, and vendors.
• Manage projects and schedules for smart grid applications and energy topics; create new business development initiatives.
• Operate BEC’s enterprise software, such as NiSC, as needed.
• Assist in budgets and special projects for the department.
• Represent the Cooperative at local, state, and national organizations and meetings.

• Knowledge of large data collection methods, analyses, and data verification.
• Knowledge of the National Electric Code (NEC) and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC).
• Thorough knowledge of electric metering safety requirements and safe work practices compliant with codes, rules, and specifications.
• Ability to provide recommendations to improve metering systems.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively on projects that promote future technologies, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong computer skills.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Engineering License (Optional).

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an electric utility system, primary and secondary metering and service equipment, and AMI systems technology is desired.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Texas Driver’s License and related insurance.
• Must pass a background and drug screening.