Planning Engineer, System Modeling

The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) manages the efficient flow of electricity on more than 11,000 circuit-miles of high-voltage transmission lines, dispatching power from hundreds of generating units across the state.

The NYISO’s System Modeling department invites applications for a full-time Planning Engineer.

The primary responsibility of this position is to maintain detailed electric power system network models for the New York Control Area (NYCA) including incorporating the most accurate system representation for the neighboring Areas to represent the specific study conditions for thermal, voltage, stability and short circuit analyses. 

This position will also support the parent Transmission Planning Department which provides transmission related engineering studies, models and database information to stakeholders, including market participant committees, the New York State Department of Public Service (DPS), the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), Northeast Power Coordination Council (NPCC), the New York State Reliability Council (NYSRC), and Eastern Interconnection Planning Collaborative (EIPC). 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Maintain the power-flow, stability and short circuit electric power system network models and databases.
• Communicate and coordinate with New York equipment owners, e.g., Generation Owners and Transmission Owners, and neighboring area databank representatives to maintain the electric power system network models.
• Prepare network model base cases and auxiliary files to be filed with regulatory entities and to be used in various transmission system security and reliability studies.
• Develop and implement procedures for dynamic data validation including simulations of actual dynamic events, and coordinate with NYISO Operations staff to review how actual system behavior compares to simulated responses, in compliance with the NERC MOD-033 standard.
• Develop and implement procedures for review of generator excitation and governor systems in compliance with NERC MOD-026 and MOD-027 standards.
• Represent NYISO on industry committees, task forces, or stakeholder groups involving issues related to system modeling.
• Participate in evaluating the effectiveness of computer simulation programs and/or other tools to ensure the safe and reliable operations of the NYISO transmission and generation resources. 
• Participate in preparing and maintaining NYISO technical support documentation.
• Participate in performing and reviewing analytical power engineering system studies in support of NYISO Planning Coordinator and Transmission Planner compliance requirements for NERC, NPCC, and NYSRC.
• Provide assistance by responding to customer, regulatory, or other outside inquiries as appropriate.

Qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering required, a focus in Power Systems preferred; Master’s degree desired. Course studies related to power system planning and design, particularly transmission planning or design highly desired.
• Two to three years of experience in the area of power system planning or design, especially planning or design of transmission system facilities or generation facilities preferred.
• Experience with computer programs used in analytical power engineering system studies such as power-flow, short circuit and/or transient stability as well as experience with models and databases used in analytical power engineering system studies.
• Knowledge of NERC, NPCC and NYSRC reliability standards and practices related to power system planning and design, especially generation modeling desired; or equivalent combination of education, training and experience. 
• Knowledge of the software tools listed below and the New York State electric power system and its neighbors’ electric power system desirable.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Ability to read, analyze and interpret the most complex documents.  Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints.  Ability to write presentations and articles using prescribed techniques or style.  Ability to make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to top management, public groups and/or boards of directors.
• Ability to comprehend and apply principles of advanced calculus, modern algebra and advanced statistical theory.  Ability to work with concepts such as limits, rings, quadratic and differential equations and proofs of theorems.
• Intermediate competency in Windows operating environment using MS Office applications, e-mail and internet programs. Engineers use a variety of software tools, including:
  • Power Flow – Siemens PTI PSS/E, PSS MOD, & PowerGem TARA
  • Dynamic Stability (primarily PTI PSS/E program)
  • Fault Current (primarily ASPEN OneLiner program)
• Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems.  Ability to deal with nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, musical notes, etc.) in its most difficult phases.  Ability to deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.
• Excellent teamwork, interpersonal, and communication skills required. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.  The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit and use hands to perform routine office tasks.  The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  Contact with staff and public will occur.  Travel may be required to attend and/or conduct meetings, conferences and training. This position may require work on nights, weekends or holidays. 

The NYISO takes pride in recruiting, developing and retaining highly talented individuals. In addition to competitive salaries, we offer a comprehensive benefits package and innovative reward programs.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

All offers of employment will be made contingent upon the successful completion of a drug screening and background check.  

The NYISO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and as such, does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices.