Engineer II - Substation Physical Design

Job Description

As a member of the substation engineering design team at Puget Sound Energy, you'll contribute to vital projects that power our communities and support the escalating demand for green energy across Western Washington, all while growing your expertise and advancing your career as a Substation Physical Design Engineer II.

Under minimal supervision of more experienced staff, engineer will develop professional knowledge and abilities by developing complex engineering plans, designs, specifications, standards, evaluations and studies associated with new and existing substations. Work assignments will cover design of 230kV, 115kV and 12.5kV open-air substations and 115kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) and can include above ground electrical equipment assembly and layout, below ground conduit and electrical grounding design, and other related elements. Developing an understanding of PSE standards, IEEE, NEC, NESC and industry standards is expected. The ability to communicate effectively, clearly and concisely, both verbally and written to diverse audiences in most settings is desirable. Understanding of electrical substation assembly and safe design practices is a plus.

The engineer shall possess a range of experience, and/or understanding of electrical engineering topics especially related to substation design and construction. Solutions typically provided by the engineer may involve complex issues, requiring interpretation of requirements, application of analytical techniques and non-standard solutions. Candidate should have the flexibility to deal with shifting budgets and priorities; the ability and resiliency to adapt to changes; and a personality that promotes optimism and synergy.

Upholds the safety compliance standards inherent in PSE’s operating and/or field procedures related to work responsibilities. Promotes and supports a culture of total safety.

Demonstrates commitment to conduct business honestly, ethically and consistent with our core values and Code of Conduct.  Ensures duties are performed in accordance with all regulatory compliance obligations.

This job is considered “safety sensitive” as defined in RCW 49.44.240 and is subject to pre-employment drug screening that includes screening for the presence of marijuana and marijuana metabolites.

Job Responsibilities

• Works on projects that are often composed of many interrelated elements.
• Interprets requirements and application of company and industry standards, guidelines, and methods.
• Applies engineering principles, practices, and theories.
• Creates and reviews cost estimates and provides economic analysis for project alternatives.
• Plans and develops project budgets with appropriate documentation.
• Identifies potential areas of weakness with assigned work and initiates corrective action.
• Ensures compliance with codes, standards, and design requirements.
• Supports emergency response work as requested including immediate and extended restoration efforts driven by weather and other system failures.
• May coordinate the work of engineering assistants, technicians, or others who assist in specific assignments (including contractors/consultants).
• Leads technical project teams.
• Performs field work necessary to research project information and support construction.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree or PE license in electrical, mechanical, civil or other appropriate engineering field
• Experience in planning, design, specification preparation, technical field work, project cost estimating and scheduling (typically achieved after 3 or more years practice as a degreed engineer).  Years of acquired experience is provided as a guide and alone does not constitute readiness for job level as individual’s skill acquisition rates can vary significantly.
• Organization, documentation, prioritization, and project management skills.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working with both internal and external customers on projects.
• Familiar with codes and equipment utilized in the design and operation of utility systems.
• Experience with coordinating external consultants in the execution of a project.
• Possession of EIT certificate and ability to acquire PE license.
• Knowledge of engineering economics and utility accounting practices.

Additional Information