Engineer I - Renewable Engineering (DER Integration Engineer)

Job Purpose

The Engineer, Grid Modernization and Renewable Integration will serve as a strategic technical leader within MGE's Energy Production team, advancing electrification, grid modernization, and distributed energy resources (DERs) in support of MGE's net-zero carbon goal. This individual will provide subject-matter expertise and manage complex projects in transportation and building electrification, renewable generation, battery storage, and related technologies. The role requires technical proficiency, cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to align customer-focused initiatives with regulatory, operational, and financial objectives.

Core Responsibilities

Note: This is not an all-inclusive listing

• Lead evaluation and deployment of electrification and renewable technologies, grid-interactive devices, and customer energy platforms.

• Set technical direction for pilots and programs, ensuring scalability and alignment with decarbonization goals.

• Design and implement programs across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors in collaboration with internal departments.

• Oversee MGE-owned EV charging, wind, solar, and battery storage assets to ensure safety, interoperability, and performance.

• Manage vendor selection, contract negotiations, and technology partnerships.

• Represent MGE in statewide/national forums and build long-term partnerships with customers, municipalities, and stakeholders.

• Provide technical support for major customer projects and collaborate on community education initiatives.

• Communicate technical and regulatory concepts for executives, regulators, and public audiences.

• Document and update EV, PV, storage, and wind MGE specifications and standards.

Behavioral Competencies

Note: These are in addition to MGE's Core Competencies

• Tech Savvy - Anticipates and adopts innovations in digital and technology applications.

• Manages Complexity - Makes sense of complex, high-quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to solve problems.

• Strategic Mindset - Sees ahead to future possibilities and translates them into strategies.

• Communicates Effectively - Tailors messages to diverse audiences.

• Persuades - Uses compelling arguments to gain support and commitment.

• Plans and Aligns - Prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals.

Skills

• Power systems engineering and renewable integration (advanced).

• Distribution planning, DER modeling, and grid modernization tools (intermediate-advanced).

• Regulatory and compliance knowledge (intermediate).

• Project management and stakeholder engagement (intermediate-advanced).

• Data analysis, modeling, and simulations (advanced).

• Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills (advanced).

• Vendor management and contract negotiation (intermediate-advanced).

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, Civil or Structural Engineering, or related field required.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain preferred.

• Advanced degree (MS) in renewable energy, power systems, or related discipline desirable.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in utility engineering, renewable integration, or grid modernization.

• Demonstrated experience in DER interconnection studies, distribution planning, or renewable project implementation.

• Experience with regulatory agencies, standards bodies, and cross-functional technical teams preferred.

Work Location

This hybrid role is based at our Madison, WI headquarters. While three days onsite is the minimum, team collaboration and business needs may require additional in-office presence.