Public Utilities Engineer

Job Description

Public Utilities Engineer - Pipeline Safety Division (Job )

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) protects, preserves, and enhances Massachusetts’ environmental resources and works to create a clean energy future. EEA’s goal is to ensure every resident has a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.

At EEA we create inclusive opportunities that empower employees to impact Massachusetts’ environmental future. Diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives.

The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) regulates investor‑owned electric, natural gas, and water companies in Massachusetts, ensuring safety and compliance with state and federal requirements.

The Public Utilities Engineer works in the Pipeline Safety Division to conduct inspections, investigations, and engineering studies of natural gas, propane, and steam facilities. The incumbent evaluates physical plant conditions, reviews operator programs and documentation, writes reports, and assists with rate filings, hearings, and training.

• Conduct engineering studies to determine capacity, service effectiveness, and reliability of natural gas utilities and recommend improvements.
• Evaluate the physical condition of plant and equipment through on‑site audits and inspections, documenting findings in reports.
• Assist with rate filings submitted to the Department.
• Investigate consumer complaints concerning the safety of natural gas pipelines.
• Review petitions filed by natural gas companies regarding construction or expansion of facilities for compliance with safety regulations.
• Study safe and reliable delivery of natural gas, energy conservation, and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Recommend changes to operating standards, plans, procedures, and other documents governing safety of natural gas utilities.
• Investigate incidents involving natural gas companies to determine cause, origin, and recommend corrective actions in detailed reports.
• Assist in preparing department rules, regulations, legislative reports, or statutes as directed.
• Support the Damage Prevention Program as needed.
• Complete other duties related to pipeline safety as directed.
• Be available for stand‑by duties or call‑back to duty.

• Four years of full‑time or equivalent part‑time technical or professional experience in mechanical or electrical engineering with duties in design, construction, or operation of facilities for light, heat, or power.
• At least two years of professional experience.
• Education/experience substitutions are acceptable as detailed below.

• Associate’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering or related field can substitute up to one year of required experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in the same fields can substitute up to two years of required experience.
• Graduate degree can substitute up to two years of required experience and one year of required professional experience.
• Education toward a degree is prorated based on completion.
• Max one year of professional experience may be substituted for educational attainment.

Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s license.

Public Utilities Engineer is an Equal Opportunity / affirmative action employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by law.

Agency:
Department of Public Utilities

Schedule:

Full‑time

Shift: Day
Number of Openings: 2
Salary: 86,434.92 –  Yearly
Bargaining Unit: 09‑MOSES – Engineers/Scientists

Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator:
Melixza Esenyie, EEADiversity, 617‑872‑3270