Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) is currently seeking a Distribution Engineer to join their team in Hughesville, Maryland. This role will involve leading the development, implementation, and facilitation of electric distribution system planning studies, as well as tasks such as power flow analysis, customer generation interconnections, and distribution automation technologies. The ideal candidate for this position should possess a positive attitude, strong technical skills, and the ability to work effectively both independently and in a team-oriented environment. Interested applicants should have a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering, along with a minimum of four years of progressive work experience in the engineering or construction department of an electric utility or consulting firm. SMECO offers a competitive salary range of $88,700 to $114,900, as well as a comprehensive benefits program.
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Position Overview
The Distribution Engineer position at Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) is responsible for various tasks related to electric distribution system planning and implementation. The primary responsibilities include developing and implementing electric distribution system planning studies, power flow and short-circuit software model development, customer generation interconnections, distribution protection device selection and coordination, construction and material standards, distribution automation technologies, data analytics, electric metering principles, equipment selection, primary electric system improvement project concept designs, and customer power quality issue resolution.
Key Responsibilities
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Electric distribution system planning studies: The Distribution Engineer is responsible for conducting and analyzing studies to determine the most efficient and effective distribution system plans.
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Power flow and short-circuit software model development: The Engineer develops and maintains software models to evaluate the power flow and short-circuit capabilities of the electric distribution system.
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Customer generation interconnections: The Engineer coordinates the interconnection of customer-generated energy sources to the distribution system, ensuring compliance with regulations and safety standards.
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Distribution protection device selection and coordination: The Engineer selects and coordinates the installation and operation of protective devices (e.g., fuses, reclosers) in the distribution system.
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Construction and material standards: The Engineer establishes and maintains standards for the construction and materials used in the distribution system.
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Distribution automation technologies: The Engineer explores and implements technologies that enhance the automation and efficiency of the distribution system.
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Data analytics: The Engineer leverages data analysis techniques to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement in the distribution system.
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Electric metering principles: The Engineer has a solid understanding of electric metering principles, including the installation and operation of energy meters.
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15kV equipment selection and application: The Engineer selects and applies appropriate equipment for the 15kV electric system, considering factors such as load capacity and safety requirements.
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Primary 15 kV electric system capital improvement project concept designs: The Engineer develops concept designs for capital improvement projects in the primary 15kV electric system.
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Customer power quality issue resolution: The Engineer addresses and resolves power quality issues experienced by customers, ensuring a high level of service and satisfaction.
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Personal Traits and Characteristics
To excel in the role of a Distribution Engineer, individuals should possess the following personal traits and characteristics:
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Positive influential and confident attitude: The Engineer should have a positive mindset and be able to influence others positively. Confidence in decision-making and problem-solving is essential.
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Technical savvy and ability to learn new concepts: The Engineer should be technically inclined and able to grasp new concepts quickly, especially in relation to electric distribution system design and operation.
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Ability to work independently and in a team environment: The Engineer should be capable of working independently, but also be a team player, collaborating effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.
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Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills: The Engineer should possess strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills, able to analyse complex issues and find innovative solutions.
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Future leadership potential: The Engineer should demonstrate the potential for future leadership roles within the organization, displaying qualities such as initiative, integrity, and effective communication.
Education and Experience
To qualify for the position of Distribution Engineer at SMECO, applicants should meet the following education and experience requirements:
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Bachelor of Science degree from an ABET accredited engineering college or university in an electric engineering discipline.
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Courses in business administration, computer, management services, power system engineering, and technical writing are preferred.
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MD Professional Engineering license or the ability to obtain within one year.
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Minimum of four years progressive work experience in the engineering, construction, or operations department of an electric utility or equivalent consulting firm.
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Knowledge of National Electric Code (NEC) and National Electric Safety Code (NESC).
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Working knowledge of electric utility-related and MS Office software applications.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply for the Distribution Engineer position via SMECO’s website at www.smeco.coop/careers. The application should include a resume, cover letter, and any additional documents that support the applicant’s qualifications and experience. SMECO is an equal employment opportunity provider and offers a comprehensive benefits program to its employees, including a 401k plan with a 6% dollar-for-dollar match and an additional 3% non-elective company contribution.
Conclusion
The role of a Distribution Engineer at SMECO is critical in ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of the electric distribution system. The Engineer’s responsibilities span various aspects, including planning studies, system modeling, interconnections, protection coordination, construction standards, automation technologies, data analytics, and more. To be successful in this position, individuals should possess personal traits such as a positive attitude, technical aptitude, independent and teamwork capabilities, problem-solving skills, and future leadership potential. Applicants are expected to have a Bachelor of Science degree in an electric engineering discipline, relevant work experience, and knowledge of applicable codes and software applications. Interested candidates are invited to apply through SMECO’s website.
