Transmission Planning Engineer: Grid Reliability & Analysis

Key Job Performance Criteria Perform comprehensive power system planning studies, including steady‑state load flow analysis, short‑circuit and protection coordination studies, dynamic performance assessments, electromagnetic transient analysis, and geomagnetic induced current studies.Steady-State Load Flow Analysis under normal and contingency conditions (N-1, N-1-1, and extreme events) to identify system limitations and develop mitigation strategies.Short-Circuit and Protection Coordination Studies to ensure appropriate equipment ratings, relay coordination, and breaker duty compliance.Dynamic Performance Assessments, including Transient Stability and Small-Signal Stability Studies.Electromagnetic Transient (EMT) Analysis for evaluating control interactions and fast dynamic phenomena.Geomagnetic Induced Current (GIC) Studies aligned with NERC TPL-007 standards.Support Regulatory Compliance And Model Validation Activities Perform NERC TPL-001-5.1 compliance assessments, extreme event analyses, and black start restoration studies.Support dynamic model validation efforts per WECC and NERC MOD standards.Conduct Advanced IBR Integration Studies Assess grid-forming/grid-following inverter technologies and their impact on system strength.Apply IEEE 2800 requirements for IBR performance.Develop mitigation strategies to maintain bulk power system reliability.Support Western Interconnection And Regional Planning Coordinate with WestConnect Planning Management Committee, WECC Reliability Subcommittees, and interconnection working groups.Engage in regional and subregional transmission planning processes.Perform Resource Interconnection And Transmission Service Studies Execute System Impact Studies (SIS) and Facility Studies consistent with FERC Order 2023.Evaluate interconnection requests for conventional generation, IBRs, storage, hybrid resources, and emerging technologies.Recommend necessary transmission reinforcements, upgrades, or operational solutions.Evaluate Grid-Enhancing Technologies (GETs) Analyze and model Dynamic Line Rating (DLR), Advanced Power Flow Controllers (APFC), and Topology Optimization (TTO).Support cost-benefit assessments and pilot project implementations for GETs.Automation And Digitalization Develop and maintain Python-based automation tools for study execution and scenario management.Advance digital workflows to reduce engineering effort and improve repeatability.Reporting, Regulatory Filings, And Knowledge Dissemination Author and deliver technical reports, regulatory filings, and executive summaries.Present findings at regional stakeholder meetings and industry conferences.Industry Engagement And Representation Represent Xcel Energy in NERC working groups, IEEE technical committees, WECC Model Validation Working Group, WestConnect Planning forums, and other industry task forces.Mentorship And Technical Leadership Mentor engineers, interns, and analysts on advanced simulation methodologies and emerging grid technologies.Provide technical leadership and foster expertise development.Lead internal technical workshops and contribute to planning documentation and standards.Support development of capital budgets, conceptual transmission projects, and economic analyses.Position Summary: Transmission Planning Engineer (Entry Level) Annual Base Salary $70,000 – $88,666This entry-level position develops technical expertise in transmission planning and power system simulations, learning planning and modeling tools under senior guidance.Essential Responsibilities Model development, modeling reviews, design, and analysis using PSSE, PSLF, TARA, DSA, or similar software.Develop study documentation and assist with procedures.Coordinate the work of interns and technicians.Explore or implement new processes to improve Integrated System Planning efficiency.Minimum Requirements Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Physics from an ABET-accredited program.0+ years relevant engineering experience.EIT/FE preferred.Graduate degree preferred.Introductory Power Systems coursework preferred.Internship experience within the power industry.Position Summary: Staff Transmission Planning Engineer Annual Base Salary $81,800 – $106,266Demonstrates complete understanding of power systems engineering, independently determines solutions, and may lead small or medium projects.Essential Responsibilities Scope and/or perform power system simulations to evaluate reliability.Develop study documentation.Maintain compliance with NERC and FERC standards.Construct information and data for exchange with Integrated System Planning groups.Coordinate model development activities to meet RTO/RE and internal criteria.Develop simple scopes of work for long-range transmission system plans.Minimum Requirements Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Physics from an ABET-accredited program.2+ years of demonstrated experience.Experience with at least one power system transmission analysis tool.Broad knowledge of power systems studies and related disciplines.EIT/FE strongly preferred.Graduate degree preferred.Position Summary: Senior Transmission Planning Engineer Annual Base Salary $97,000 – $129,266Applies extensive technical expertise, carries out complex assignments, and serves as a staff advisor in a technical specialty.Essential Responsibilities Lead and perform modeling and analysis for steady state and stability simulations.Develop scopes for studies to guide long-range planning.Communicate study results to various audiences.Improve Integrated System Planning procedures through self-directed work.Implement NERC and FERC compliance activities.Assign tasks to lower-level engineers, interns, and technicians; mentor junior staff.Minimum Requirements Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Physics from an ABET-accredited program.5+ years with nationally recognized certification; 7+ years without certification.Experience with multiple power system transmission analysis tools.Preferred Requirements EIT/FE and/or PE registration.Graduate degree.Benefits Summary Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement, Health Care Reimbursement, Health Savings Account, Limited-Purpose FSA, Transportation Reimbursement, STD, LTD, EAP, Fitness Center Reimbursement, Tuition Reimbursement, Transit Program, Employee Recognition Program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid Time Off, Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off, Parental Leave.EEO Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.Accessibility Statement Xcel Energy endeavors to make accessible to all users. 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