Distribution DER Modeling & Analysis Engineer -Principal

American Electric Power; New Albany (OH); On-site; USD 88,000 - 151,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power in New Albany, Ohio is seeking an engineer to support DER studies, CYME model creation, and distribution planning activities. The role emphasizes applying engineering knowledge to reliable, economical DER interconnections and planning initiatives.

The position requires ABET-accredited engineering education with 2+ years of experience, plus strong analytical and collaborative skills to work with cross-functional teams within an onsite setting in Ohio.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering with ABET accreditation and 2+ years of related engineering experience.
• Master’s degree may qualify for entry at SG7.
• PE license encouraged and preferred; PE in Puerto Rico or other regions acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Support analysis, methodology, and study of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).
• Evaluate new technologies and participate in DER-related industry forums.
• Develop and maintain interconnection policies, standards, and requirements for DER.
• Improve planning criteria, load forecasting methodologies, and project prioritization processes.
• Lead efforts to enhance and automate system analysis capabilities.
• Develop training materials to ensure consistency across business units.
• Provide regulatory and policy support on DER interconnections and operations.

Skills

DER Interconnections

Distribution Planning

Distribution Engineering

Analytical techniques

Education

ABET-accredited engineering degree

Master's degree in engineering

PE license

Engineering Technology with PE option

Tools

CYME software

Smartsheet

Power BI

Python

SQL/Oracle

SAS

Job description

• Supporting distribution engineering CYME model creation.

What we’re looking for:

Job Posting End Date

08-14-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing complex engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

Job Description

What you’ll do:

The Distribution Modeling and Analysis Department is seeking a motivated team member to perform engineering functions related to Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and advanced distribution system studies as the complexity of system studies grows with the increasing integration of DERs and EVs, as well as evolving interconnection requirements and planning criteria.

Candidates with experience in DER Interconnections, Distribution Planning, Distribution Engineering, Transmission functions, or utility operations are encouraged to apply. Knowledge of the CYME software suite is a key function of this team. System reliability and protection coordination skills are a plus. Familiarity with Smartsheet, Power BI and programming or databases (such as Python, SQL/Oracle and/or SAS) is also strongly desired, though candidates without these skills are still encouraged to apply.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the analysis, methodology, and study of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).
• Evaluating new technologies and participating in industry forums related to DER for the Distribution Planning and Analysis function.
• Developing and upkeeping AEP Distribution’s DER interconnection policies, standards and requirements.
• Improving planning criteria, load forecasting methodologies, and project prioritization processes.
• Leading efforts to enhance and automate system analysis capabilities.
• Developing training materials to ensure consistency and scalability across business units.
• Providing regulatory and policy support regarding technical issues related to DER interconnections and operations.
• Supporting distribution engineering CYME model creation.
• Supporting and enhancing key internal software tools including CYME, DGP, and CSII.
• Collaborating with Distribution/Transmission Planning, DER interconnection, Operating Company, and Operations Engineering, IRP, and Economic Forecasting teams.
• Technical Expertise: Possesses intermediate level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis. Demonstrates competency in analytical techniques necessary to handle assignments of moderate complexity. (e.g., by dividing the problem into component steps, and performing the analysis necessary to complete each step). Exhibits ability to understand interrelationship between systems and component equipment. Demonstrate ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.
• Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entity as necessary to complete routine activities. Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees.
• Planning & Organization Ability: Coordinates the development of input necessary to prioritize deliverables and forecast costs for the routine projects, improvements requisitions, etc. Uses scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Initiates corrective action when project objectives are not being met.
• Problem Solving & Initiative: Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine. Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.
• Communication: Develops, reviews, or presents technical reports such as improvement requisitions, studies, and analyses in as clear, concise and effective fashion.
• Interpersonal Skills: Is an active team member. Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system. Identifies key stakeholders. Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus.
• Decision Making: Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures. Makes decisions that affect the work of the team. Aware of risks. Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.
• Business Awareness & Characteristics: Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.

What we’re looking for:

Engineer SG7

Education/Experience

• Has typically acquired a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* along with 2/two or more years of related engineering experience.
• Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.
• Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

Acceptable alternative:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.

Engineer Senior SG8

Education/Experience:

• Has typically acquired 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
• Or 2 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*; Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred
• Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

Acceptable alternative:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

Engineer Principal SG9

Education/Experience:

• Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
• Or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP
• Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

Acceptable alternative:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation is preferred to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
• VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program
• ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Where you'll work:

This role sits onsite in New Albany, Ohio.

What you'll get:

• Engineer SG7($89,000-$110,000)
• Engineer Senior SG8($110,000-$129,000)
• Engineer Principal SG9($116,000-$151,000)

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do

At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

American Electric Power (On-Site)

$89K- $151K / Year

#AEPCareers #engineering

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-007

Compensation Range:

$87,633.00 - $151,132.50

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.