Distribution Engineer I 4P/684

 Location: Pelham, AL, 35124
 Contract: 3 Years

Client: Alabama Power

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated Distribution Engineer I to support the design, planning, and management of electrical distribution systems that deliver reliable power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

This role is responsible for supporting distribution system design, network analysis, asset management, reliability improvements, and infrastructure projects within a utility and power environment. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, technical aptitude, and a solid understanding of electrical distribution principles.

Key Responsibilities

Distribution System Design

• Design and support electrical distribution systems including:
  • Overhead and underground distribution lines
  • Substations
  • Transformers
  • Protective equipment
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards, utility requirements, and safety regulations.

Network Analysis & System Performance

• Perform:
  • Load flow analysis
  • Fault analysis
  • Voltage drop calculations
• Evaluate system performance and identify opportunities for reliability improvements.
• Support strategies to improve system resilience and power quality.

Asset Management

• Maintain records of distribution system assets and equipment.
• Assist with condition assessments and recommend maintenance, repair, or replacement activities.
• Support long-term infrastructure planning initiatives.

Equipment Selection & Technical Support

• Assist in specifying and selecting distribution equipment such as:
  • Transformers
  • Circuit breakers
  • Switches
  • Protective devices
• Support engineering evaluations based on voltage levels, load requirements, and operational needs.

Project Management & Coordination

• Support distribution infrastructure projects from planning through execution.
• Coordinate with:
  • Construction crews
  • Contractors
  • Vendors
  • Internal engineering teams
• Help ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget.

New Service Connections

• Evaluate requests for new electrical service connections.
• Assess impacts on the distribution network and support infrastructure design for new customers.

Emergency Response & Troubleshooting

• Support restoration efforts during outages and emergency situations.
• Assist with rapid assessment of equipment failures and development of restoration solutions.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze operational and monitoring data from:
  • Smart grid systems
  • Sensors
  • Distribution monitoring tools
• Support data-driven engineering and operational decisions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Basic understanding of electrical distribution systems and utility operations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to:
  • Distribution system design
  • Utility engineering practices
  • Power system analysis
• Familiarity with:
  • AutoCAD
  • GIS systems
  • Distribution modeling software
  • Power system simulation tools
• Understanding of:
  • Protection systems
  • Grid operations
  • Industry standards and regulatory requirements
• EIT certification or progress toward PE licensure is a plus.

Key Skills

• Distribution system design
• Load flow and fault analysis
• Power systems engineering
• Project coordination
• Asset management
• Data analysis and reporting
• AutoCAD and GIS
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving
• Communication and collaboration
• Safety awareness