Generator Interconnection Support Engineer
Job Summary:
This position will focus on providing operational support to reliably integrate new Inverter Based Resources (IBRs) into the Southern Company Transmission System. As a result, the successful candidate will participate in generation interconnection activities and collaborate with multiple stakeholders, perform transmission level evaluation and assessments related to reactive power capability and participate in interconnection and delivery study activities. Due to the operational characteristics of the IBRs and uncertainty around their performance, the engineer will also be responsible for supporting real-time steady-state stability studies in the operations planning horizon.
Job Responsibilities
- Proactive engage in the Generator Interconnection process and work cross-functionally with both internal and external groups to obtain official approvals for initial synchronization and Commercial Operation readiness.
- Monitor IBR performance to ensure appropriate and expected response to system disturbances.
- Conduct operations planning studies to support system operations functions including but not limited to local reliability studies (e.g., Local Generation Limits), Interchange Distribution Calculator (IDC).
- Conduct transient and voltage stability studies using TSAT and VSAT. Periodic on call required.
- Perform technical analysis, including adherence of IBRs to SOCO’s reactive and voltage schedule requirements.
- Review and maintain dynamic and power flow models for generators and associated controls required to perform real-time stability analysis, including IBR modeling.
- Assist in the support of real-time stability studies and special assessments as needed.
- Establish and maintain operating protocols and procedures, and support on-going NERC testing after Commercial Operations (e.g., MOD-025, MOD-026 etc.)
- On behalf of the Southeastern Reliability Coordinator, the Southeastern Balancing Authority Area and the Southern Company Transmission Service Provider, serve as additional contact for generator interconnection issues that are operational in nature.
- Participate in industry committees and initiatives as needed.
- Other duties, as assigned.
Education Requirements (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills)
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited institution is required.
- Advanced degree (master’s and/or PhD) in Engineering is a plus.
Experience Requirements
- Experience in Power System load flow analysis, Control Systems, Electric Machine Theory, and Symmetrical Components is preferred.
- Experience with Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs) including solar, battery energy storage, wind, hybrid power plants is preferred.
- Experience with modeling inverter-based resources for operations studies, particularly with understanding of dynamic models is a plus.
- Experience with generation controls, design and protection is a plus.
- Experience working with TSAT, VSAT power system modeling and analytical tools such as CAPE, PSS/E, PSCAD etc. is a plus.
- Familiarity with computer programming (such as but not limited to C, Visual Basic, VB.Net, or Python) is a plus.
- Understanding of NERC reliability standards, FERC, IEEE industry standards is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Strong problem-solving skills required to find solutions on new/difficult topics with a diverse set of working groups.
- Strong communication and presentation skills is a plus.
- Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize work effectively and adhere to deadlines.
- Work and coordinate with both internal and external groups to resolve technical issues, demonstrating the capability to make prudent decisions in challenging circumstances.
- Be self-motivated, results-oriented, innovative, and work well in a team environment.
- Must function well in a quick paced environment.
- Must be a self-starter.
- Demonstrates behaviors consistent with Our Values: Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance.
Job Location:
This position will be located at the Power Coordination Center (PCC) in Birmingham, AL and will support the 24x7 real-time operations group; however, hybrid work arrangements will be considered dependent upon the qualifications, skills, and experience of the successful candidate. Relocation assistance and/or sign-up bonus available, if qualified.