DER Associate Engineer / Engineer (Richmond, VA)

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Engineer to join our team. This role may be filled at either the Associate or Intermediate Engineer level, depending on qualifications. The Engineer will be primarily responsible for DER Interconnection Studies and Engineering, as well as supporting the planning, coordinating, and overseeing distributed energy resource (DER) projects including Energy Storage. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to developing, implementing, and managing various engineering projects. This role combines expertise in power systems, renewable energy, energy storage, and advanced grid integration to deliver innovative and sustainable energy solutions. The DER Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams, from DG Contracts, Distribution Design, Distribution Planning, Project Management, to System Protection Engineering and Substation Engineering and Standards to ensure successful deployment and integration of DER systems into grid infrastructure.

This role requires a strong technical background, excellent project management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

Candidate Attributes:

• Passion for DERs and innovative grid solutions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities associated with the DER Engineering role include but are not limited to the following:

•    The review of DER requests for attachment to the distribution feeders.
•    Performing engineering studies for voltage analysis of generation and its effects on existing facilities, equipment, and customers.
•    Reviewing protective equipment of the attaching generation facilities and existing distribution protective equipment.
•    Recommending distribution system upgrades for the proper operation of generation within the distribution system.
•    Acting as a liaison between Electric Distribution System Planning and groups such as System Protection Engineering, Electric Transmission Substation Engineering, Distribution Contracts, and developing generation Customers.
•    Assessing Dominion Energy distribution equipment and facilities including electric substations. These substations may also contain Electric Transmission assets.
•    Performing operational review and/or root cause analysis of system of events associated with DER Interconnections

Other Responsibilities, as more experience is gained within the organization, may include providing support in the following area:

•    Conduct technical analysis and provide engineering solutions to project challenges
•    Identify and mitigate project risks while ensuring high-quality deliverables.
•    Prepare and review engineering designs, specifications, and documentation.
•    Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations ((e.g., IEEE 1547, FERC, and NERC standards), and company policies.
•    Monitor project progress and adjust as necessary to meet deadlines and budget constraints.
•    Provide technical support and guidance to project team members.
•    Oversee system commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting to ensure compliance with performance and safety standards.
•    Conduct and review performance validations and post-installation evaluations to ensure system reliability and efficiency.
•    Collaborate with utilities and stakeholders to ensure smooth grid integration of DER solutions.
•    Prepare and present project status reports to management and stakeholders.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience

The knowledge, skills, abilities and experience required for entry into this job include the following: 

Associate Engineer 0-2 years of related experience 

Engineer 2+ years of related experience 

•    Background in renewable energy systems, energy storage, and grid integration preferred.
•    Experience in project engineering, lead, or a similar role preferred.
•    Strong knowledge of engineering principles, practices, and standards.
•    Excellent project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
•    Proficiency in project management software and tools.
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
•    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
•    Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
•    Fundamental Engineering (FE) license is preferred but not required.

Preferred Skills:

•    Proficiency in power system analysis tools (e.g., Synergi, CYME, PSS®E, ETAP, PowerFactory, RTDS).
•    Proficiency in Protective Relaying as it applies to Electric Distribution
•    Advance Knowledge of Programming language such as Python
•    Good understanding of grid-edge technologies, advanced inverters, and DERMS platforms.
•    Excellent project management and problem-solving skills.
•    Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with diverse stakeholders.

Education Requirements

Required Degree (equivalency not accepted in lieu of required degree):

Bachelor’s In Engineering

Preferred Discipline(s): 

Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Power Systems, or a related field .

Working Conditions