Distributed Energy Resources Engineer I/II 37

Position Purpose and Objectives:

The Distributed Energy Resources Engineer I/II is responsible for the development, implementation, and management of distributed energy resource (DER) projects and integration of DER solutions, alongside leading programs in energy systems, which include solar, electric vehicles, smart thermostats, battery energy storage, and various other emerging hyperlocal distribution technologies. This role involves researching, developing, and implementing strategies and pursuing grants to enhance system visibility, predictability, reliability, and responsiveness, while also focusing on customer engagement and operational efficiency.

Essential Job Functions:

Research and Development

• Research, develop, and implement DER projects and grid integration solutions, including distributed energy resource management system (DERMS) and virtual power plant (VPP) technologies
• Innovate by integrating new energy solutions such as photovoltaics, electric vehicles, battery storage, and other DER technologies into the electrical system
• Conduct cost-benefit studies to assess program effectiveness, align incentives with market behavior, and ensure initiatives deliver meaningful value through member bill savings and reduced system impacts

Program Implementation

• Integrate comprehensive strategies for beneficial electrification that align member needs with electrical system capabilities
• Iterate upon technical requirements for program enrollments and ensure technical compliance with United Power requirements
• Coordinate with vendors and members for installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of various distributed energy resources
• Coordinate inventory of physical equipment where applicable

Data Management

• Coordinate data collection from advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), DERs, and other energy systems for analysis and integration into DERMS
• Manage data for accuracy, reliability, and security, including data verification, validation, and storage
• Assist in maintaining documentation for member DER applications, including signed Terms & Conditions, program requirements, and other legal documents, in coordination with the Legal department

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align DER projects with distribution, transmission, power supply, IT, and cybersecurity perspectives
• Engage with members, vendors, and community stakeholders to promote and support DER initiatives and energy solutions programs
• Coordinate with the Engineering department on the operation of energy systems and their impact on the grid
• Develop periodic reports of energy solution programs that have errors, problems, or concerns, and follow up with a site inspection or service order to address them
• Lead and perform comprehensive energy assessments and audits to evaluate member facility performance, optimize load profiles, reduce system impact, and recommend engineering solutions that support reductions in system peak demand and reduce power costs

Technical Leadership

• Serve as a technical lead for DERMS, VPP operations, and energy system connectivity, ensuring compliance with interconnection standards
• Develop and document operating procedures for DER systems
• Grant permission to operate connected energy systems and work with members to maintain connectivity

Compliance and Standards

• Ensure all DER integration and energy system operations comply with IEEE, NERC, FERC, ANSI, and other relevant standards
• Work with the Power Supply department to keep abreast of SPP and regional market protocols and other regulatory requirements impacting DER performance and monetization
• Assist in the review and filing of internal reports, as well as grant-related reports to state and federal agencies

Project Management

• Manage grant project budgets and timelines; coordinate with consultants, governmental agencies, vendors, and internal teams for project success
• Administer software and document operating procedures related to energy systems in program areas

Innovation and Trends

• Stay informed about emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices in DER integration and energy systems
• Identify and support implementation of process improvements for energy solutions programs and associated software systems.

Secondary Job Functions:

• Coordinate with Member Services to train new employees on energy solutions programs
• Participate in distribution system operator (DSO) and DERMS stakeholder working groups
• Represent United Power at functions and events to assist members in understanding programs offered
• Create, expand, and maintain professional and productive working relationships with peers and stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and foster a spirit of cooperation and inclusion in the workplace
• Perform other duties as may be requested or assigned to fulfill the needs of United Power in the interest of good management practices

Supervision Received and Exercised:

Distributed Energy Resources Engineer I: Reports directly to the Energy Solutions Director. Normally receives general instructions on daily work and detailed instructions on newly introduced assignments.

Distributed Energy Resources Engineer II: Reports directly to the Energy Solutions Director. Normally receives little instruction on daily work and general instructions on newly introduced assignments.

No supervisory duties.

Education and Experience Required:

Distributed Energ.