Distribution Automation Engineer 2 at CoServ

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.

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 mis-operation 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.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Position Requirements

Education 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.

Education and Certifications Preferred

• Engineer In Training certification.

Experience Required

• 2 years’ experience in electric utility power distribution.

Experience Preferred

• 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.