Transmission Planning Engineer

Transmission Planning Engineer (East) Transmission Planner

Department Overview

This is one of the most exciting and dynamic times in recent history for the power industry as we evaluate and implement renewable energy and emerging technologies to build the future of energy for the advancement of our customers and communities. Transmission planning plays a critical role in Southern Companys success in achieving this goal by continuously developing a reliable, flexible, and resilient transmission grid that meets the needs of our future.

At Southern Company, our transmission planning organization encompasses all aspects of planning the transmission system for our subsidiary retail electric utilities in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. This includes expertise in numerous areas such as steady-state and dynamic power system analysis, power quality and transient analysis, load modeling and base case development, annual transmission expansion plan development, reliability standards compliance, economic development transmission service evaluations, OATT transmission service requests, generator interconnection and designation studies, generation RFP procurements, unit retirement and new build evaluations, regional planning and coordination with external utilities, interface analysis, GMD and EMP analysis, transmission policy and regulatory, industry committee leadership, and tools and technology innovation. While each group within transmission planning has a targeted function, we foster an environment of cross-functional teamwork and collaboration and are committed to working with our employees on career and personal development in multiple areas of their interest. As a vertically integrated utility, we also have the unique opportunity to work closely with teams from across our organization in all the major business sectors.

Position Details

This position is responsible for conducting and evaluating transmission planning studies on the Georgia Integrated Transmission System (ITS) in order to create bulk electric system expansion plans that reliably and economically meet the needs of all transmission users. Transmission expansion plans must satisfy all user requirements, be coordinated with Georgia Power Company budgeting and project development processes along with ensuring compliance with applicable NERC and Southern Company transmission planning criteria. The successful candidate will lead solution teams, participate in the budgeting, prioritization and project development, and management of proposed projects. This position interfaces with Georgia Power Transmission & Distribution Organization clients and external Transmission System planning contacts.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform power system modeling and analysis including but not limited to:

+ Steady-state load flow thermal and voltage analysis

+ Generator interconnection studies

+ Transmission service studies

+ Economic development studies

• Develop system-wide power flow models and assumptions.
• Coordinate with multiple groups and internal customers within Southern Company and the Operating Companies.
• Develop and coordinate reliable, innovative, and cost-effective transmission solutions including multiple alternatives.
• Lead and participate on solution teams and other initiatives to determine transmission project feasibility, scope, and timing.

Education

• Bachelors degree in engineering from an ABET accredited institution is required (Electrical Engineering preferred). Pending graduates will be considered.
• Masters degree in engineering or business is desirable.
• Professional Engineering License is desirable.

Work Experience

• Experience in transmission planning and operations is preferred.
• Experience in transmission design, maintenance, and protection and controls is desirable.
• Experience in transmission project management, estimating, and scheduling is desirable.
• Experience in electrical power system modeling and analysis is desirable.
• Experience in generator (IBR and/or conventional) operations, control system modeling and analysis is desirable.

Skills and Knowledge

• Power system analysis with common industry accepted tools such as PSS/E, PSLF, CAPE, ASPEN, EMTP, PSCAD, TARA, VSAT, PowerWorld, SINCAL, PSCAD, etc.
• Strong time management and organizational skills required to balance multiple projects simultaneously and adhere to deadlines
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to effectively present complex topics
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and databases
• NERC reliability standards acumen
• FERC transmission policy and regulation acumen
• Working knowledge of programming languages (Python, C#, and Visual Basic.net) and data visualization tools

Behavioral Attributes

• Self-motivated, results-oriented, and innovative
• Analytical and detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills
• Works well in a team environment (both in person and virtual)
• Proactive in training and onboarding in a hybrid or virtual environment
• Adaptable to change
• Strong customer focus
• Exhibits Southern Companys Our Values (Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance).

+ Safety First – We actively care about the safety and well-being of our employees, customers, and communities. Safely approaching every job, every day, always comes first.

+ Intentional Inclusion – We are One Team, working to foster a culture of belonging and ensuring our diverse team feels valued. Investing in an equitable culture benefits employees, customers, communities, and shareholders.

+ Act with Integrity – We act with honesty, respect, and fairness, while demonstrating trustworthiness in all we do. We are true to our word and follow through on our commitments.

+ Superior Performance – We keep customers at the center of everything we do, with a focus on continuous improvement. We provide exceptional service, delivering innovative solutions that benefit our customers, communities, investors, and the environment.

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million residential and commercial customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy infrastructure company with national capabilities, a fiber optics network, and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability, we are taking action to meet our customers and communities needs while advancing our commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture and hiring practices have earned the company national awards and recognition from numerous organizations, including Forbes, Military Times, DiversityInc, Black Enterprise, J.D. Power, Fortune, Human Rights Campaign and more. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com.

Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant’s qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Job Identification: 7504

Job Category: Engineering

Job Schedule: Full time

Company: Southern Company Services