Engineer I (EMS)

Responsibilities

OPPD's Operational Technology Division is looking for a technically competent and critically thinking individual with a passion for design, development, and engineering to oversee the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of OPPD's Energy Management System (EMS). We're seeking an Engineer to join our team of passionate, hardworking, goal-orientated engineers in the EMS OT Applications group.

Department Overview

The Operational Technology Division provides comprehensive engineering solutions to improve Transmission and Distribution system reliability and facilitate the future growth and expansion of OPPD's generation facilities, transmission grid, and grid modernization efforts. The EMS team provides outstanding engineering support to various grid operations groups by resolving complex issues using of state-of-the-art, industry-recognized technology. The Energy Management System is used by OPPD's real-time Transmission, Distribution, And Generation Operators to monitor, control and optimize the performance of the District's electric system.

Position Summary

The EMS Engineer will report to the Manager of EMS OT Apps. The group consists of both Computer and Electrical Engineers who provide operational support of the tools utilized by Grid Operations and Energy Marketing & Trading. Within the role, candidates will be expected to:

• Provide technical support and engineering analysis of the EMS and its associated applications and infrastructure
• Work with project managers and partners within other areas of the organization (i.e. Substation and System Protection, Protection Automation and Engineering, Telecom, IT, Grid OT) for support in completing critical work
• Maintain internal and external system interfaces
• Manage and optimize EMS performance
  
  

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for Transmission, Distribution and Generation real-time operations including: state estimator and security/contingency analyses, power flows, network model tuning, system health checks, etc.
• Ensure EMS models, databases, applications, process, procedures and subsystems are maintained in such a way that warrants data accuracy and has minimal impact to OPPD operations.
• Develop custom engineering solutions in support of system end-user requirements.
• Perform troubleshooting tasks across all EMS domains and applications.
• Support project/field work in coordination with EMS and ADMS engineers.
• Configure and maintain accurate and reliable network mode and SCADA databases.
• Establish operator situational awareness via EMS alarm development and maintenance.
• Interact with internal stakeholders for the analysis and maintenance of EMS applications, databases and displays to meet their business need.
• Communicate with neighboring utilities to ensure external model accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with NERC Standards and SPP operating protocols/criteria.
• When assigned, participate in 24x7 afterhours EMS on-call rotation for technical assistance and emergency response.
  
  

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or equivalent from an ABET accredited institution.
• Strong technical, problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of electrical engineering or electrical power engineering.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and maintain critical infrastructure/electric power grid models.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
  
  

Desired:

• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) applications
• Work experience in a mission critical or controls environment
• Linux, C/C , Python, Java
• Database Administration
• Writing queries for data extraction
• Substation field devices (e.g. RTUs, breakers, bus, switch, line, etc.)
• RTU protocols (DNP, Conitel, Modbus)
• Display/HMI building
• Debugging programs
• Interpreting user needs and developing solutions to solve user-identified issues
• Fundamental understanding of TCP/IP
• Familiarity with electric utility operations, planning, design, and construction practices
  
  

Time Demands:

• This position is considered an "essential position" meaning when business necessity and continuity needs are emergent, this position will be required to report to work and may be required to work hours beyond an employee's normal shift.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance in alignment with Departmental policy.
• Must be available for overtime work and call-outs as required to ensure continuance of efficient operation.
  
  

Closing Statement

Salary Grade: S3

Base: $79,907

Midpoint: $99,884

At Omaha Public Power District , we're passionate about three things: power, the people who make it, and the people who rely on it.

WE ARE: Where the Light Starts. OPPD is the 12 th -largest public power utility in the U.S., serving over 850,000 people across 5,000 square miles and 13 counties.

WE'RE COMMITTED TO: Each other and the people we serve. This commitment drives us. We're dedicated to providing our communities with affordable, reliable, and environmentally sensitive energy services today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

OUR JOB: To provide power with a purpose. We have real impact - on people's lives, on the environment, and on the future of energy. We're always looking for bright, capable people who want an opportunity to lead from where you are - wherever you are - and know that your ideas will be heard. If you want to be a source of real, positive change for the community and the people who live in this region, then working for a company acknowledged for caring about these same things is likely a priority for you as well.

Org Marketing Statement

EOE: Protected Veterans/Disability

How To Apply

Apply online at www.oppd.com on or before 3/6/2025 .

Recruiter: Scott Green - smgreen@oppd.com

• PLEASE NOTE** - Your application has not been submitted unless you have applied for a specific requisition. If you have not chosen a specific opening, your application will remain in 'DRAFT' form and will not be viewed by our Human Capital staff.