Utility Electrical System Engineer

What You Will Do

Are you an early to mid-career electrical engineer looking to take on high-impact, real-world challenges? At Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), you'll be part of a team responsible for maintaining and enhancing our primary electrical transmission (115kV) and distribution (13.8kV) system, powering one of the nation's most vital research institutions. This is a chance to work with cutting‑edge technology, contribute to national security, and develop your expertise in high-voltage systems while enjoying an outstanding work-life balance in beautiful northern New Mexico.

This position will be filled at either the Engineer 2 or 3 level, depending on the skills and experience of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

As a Utility Electrical System Engineer, you'll play a key role in managing and maintaining LANL's high-voltage electrical infrastructure. Your responsibilities will include:

• Perform power system studies (Short Circuit, Coordination, Arc Flash, Load Flow) for high (115kV), medium (13.2kV), and low voltage equipment
• Design and implement electrical solutions to enhance system reliability, safety, and performance
• Develop detailed designs, calculations, and specifications for utility and facility projects

• Support preventive and corrective maintenance for substations, transmission/distribution lines, and switch gear
• Ensure compliance with national standards (NESC, NEC, IEEE, NFPA 70E, OSHA)
• Work closely with PNM and Los Alamos County on Bulk Electric System (BES) planning, operations, and maintenance

• Provide technical expertise and leadership on LANL projects, ensuring safe, high-quality, and reliable power delivery
• Collaborate across multiple teams, including safety specialists, utility operators, and project managers
• Develop and refine the Utility Health Report, identifying key investment areas for future improvements
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Innovation & Problem-Solving
• Evaluate complex electrical challenges, identify risks, and develop creative solutions
• Provide insights on electrical safety, power quality, system protection, and reliability improvements
Engineer 3 ($114,700 - $191,200)

Additional Responsibilities at the Engineer 3 Level:

• Act as an Electrical Safety Officer (ESO), conducting risk and hazard assessments
• Lead technical discussions, mentor junior engineers, and drive process improvements
• Manage long‑term operational and strategic planning for utility reinvestment and asset management
What You Need

We're looking for an innovative, problem‑solving engineer who's ready to grow their career and take on exciting challenges.

Minimum

Job Requirements
• Hands‑on experience with power system analysis tools like SKM or ETAP
• Familiarity with transmission and distribution system protection, SCADA systems, RTUs, or other operational technology (OT) hardware
• Knowledge of industry standards (NESC, NEC, IEEE, NFPA 70E, NERC)
• Experience in preventive maintenance programs, load flow modeling (PSLF), and GIS platforms (ArcFM)
• Ability to manage complex projects, schedules, and resources effectively
• Leadership or mentoring experience in a team‑oriented, high‑impact environment
Education/Experience at Engineer 2

Position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an ABET‑accredited college or university and a minimum of 3 years practical work experience to the degree necessary to perform the responsibilities outlined above. Bachelor's in Engineering (ABET‑accredited) + 3 years relevant experience. Current registration as an Engineer‑in‑Training (EIT) is highly desirable.

Education/Experience at Engineer 3

Position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an ABET‑accredited college or university and a minimum of 6 years practical work experience to the degree necessary to perform the responsibilities outlined above. Advanced engineering or technical degree is highly desired. Current registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) is highly desirable.

Desired Qualifications
• Profess…