Distribution Planning Engineer III

This position performs all technical and economic analyses necessary to determine feasible, reliable, and economical expansion plans for the District's distribution system to adequately meet internal and external customers¿ forecasted requirements.  The individual will:
* Support creation of a new, fully-updated computer model of the distribution system every year
* Support T&D Operations, Engineering, and Construction departments with technical advice and scheduling assistance  
* Support efforts of Electric Service Designers, Economic Development personnel, and Key Account Executives to provide outstanding customer service  
* Respond to distribution outage requests from the District's T&D Operations department and conducts operational studies
* Performs switching studies in the spring to prepare the distribution system for peak loading
* Study the integration of Distributed Generation and other new and developing technologies  
* Assist in the training and development junior engineers in the Distribution Planning department  
* Participates in cross functional project teams to support OPPD Strategic Initiatives
* Participates in creation of an integrated system planning model and plan that balances generation, transmission, and distribution needs

1. Perform technical and economic analyses necessary to determine feasible, reliable, and economical expansion of the District's Distribution System
* Perform annual review of responsible distribution circuits to ensure that the system can and is being operated in the most efficient manner within industry standards and best practices  
* Ensure that computer models and study data, which are employed in distribution system analytical simulations, are complete and accurate
* Study the addition of new and changing loads on the distribution system
* Maintain distribution voltage and power factor in acceptable ranges
* Perform long-range distribution expansion plan that aligns with plans for transmission and generation facility additions to ensure an adequate, economic, and reliable supply of power under normal and contingency conditions
* Conduct distribution operational studies to support the T&D operations department
* Conduct distribution system impact studies and determine upgrades needed to support large customer load and distributed generation interconnection requests
2. Aid in the development of System Improvement Projects to address deficiencies and improve operational efficiency.
* Work collaboratively with peers, customers, and clients internal and external to OPPD to identify needs and project scopes
* Develop Business Cases, Budget Input Templates, and Financial Analysis Worksheets to support approval of System Improvement Projects  
* Assist with proposals, development of the annual budget, and budget updates
* Prepare, maintain and provide analytics as needed

3. Support strategic goals and corporate initiatives through creative and dynamic problem solving.  Stay aware of industry trends and incorporate new ideas and technology into department functions.

4. Stay current with and ensure compliance with all applicable NERC, FERC, SPP, MRO, and ANSI standards/policies/regulations.  Participate in standard review, data collection and submittal and audits for any and all applicable NERC Standards

5. Support development of department members and represent department to other work groups.
* Assist in technical review and process compliance for junior engineers in the department
* Serve as a resource/consultant to other District departments particularly in the areas of computer simulation and system operating conditions.
* Represent Distribution Planning in cross functional teams.  Keep the department updated on any potentially impactful outcomes.