Electrical Engineer Power Systems Operational Technology

The Third Group; Harrisonburg (VA); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Third Group is seeking an Electrical Engineer to drive reliability and integration across the electric distribution system. This role supports both grid infrastructure and OT, bridging System Engineering with field assets to optimize SCADA applications and substation projects.

Applicants should have a BSEE (ABET) and relevant utility experience; PE license preferred. The position requires on-call rotations, hybrid work, and readiness to work evenings or weekends during outages.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited BSEE is required; power systems focus preferred.
• PE license is a plus; CPR/First Aid certifications are desirable.
• Experience with electric utility SCADA, protection and control is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead advanced SCADA & OT integration and provide daily support.
• Coordinate with engineering, AMI, SCADA, and field assets for performance.
• Oversee substation design, procurement, contracting, and construction.
• Support grid studies: voltage, load, and power quality analyses.

Skills

SCADA experience

Power systems

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Regulatory compliance

Project coordination

Education

BSEE from ABET-accredited institution

Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred

CPR and First Aid certifications

Tools

SCADA platforms

AutoCAD

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Position Type:

Full-Time / Exempt

Department:

System Engineering

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and forward-thinking Electrical Engineer to drive operational excellence, system reliability, and advanced technology integration across our electric distribution system. In this role, you will act as a key technical resource supporting both grid infrastructure and Operational Technology (OT).

You will bridge the gap between System Engineering, System Operations, and field assets—optimizing advanced SCADA applications, supporting substation projects, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective power to our members.

Key Responsibilities

1. Advanced SCADA & Operational Technology Integration

• Serve as the primary technical liaison between the electric distribution system and the SCADA network, providing daily support for advanced applications including DPF, SCA, FLISR, VVC, and CVR.
• Coordinate seamlessly across engineering teams, AMI systems, SCADA platforms, and field assets to ensure seamless resource integration and high system performance.
• Partner with System Operations leadership and operators on switching procedures, load management, SCADA operations, and Overhead Operating Manual updates.

2. Substation & Infrastructure Project Management

• Share oversight of substation design, bidding, procurement, contracting, and construction management, including coordination with transmission owners.
• Assist with the configuration, maintenance, and operation of equipment controls (Recloser/Regulator controls, electronic relays, communications systems).
• Oversee budget tracking, financial reporting, and RUS (Rural Utilities Service) contracting requirements for assigned engineering projects.

3. System Analysis & Engineering Studies

• Support engineering studies evaluating seasonal and annual grid performance, voltage drop, fault current, load balancing, and equipment capacity.
• Conduct specialized impact studies for motor starting, sectionalizing, device settings, and power quality issues (e.g., stray voltage, frequency spectrum, interference).
• Maintain up-to-date working knowledge of Distributed Generation (DG) interconnections and interconnection requirements.
• Advise on specialized equipment installations (transformers, meters) and communicate complex technical findings clearly to non-technical stakeholders.

4. Interdepartmental Collaboration & Special Projects

• Provide technical insights and support to Key Accounts, System Planning, and cross-functional teams to resolve complex customer and operational issues.
• Participate in special engineering projects, continuous improvement initiatives, and emergency power restoration efforts.

Qualifications & Prerequisites

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from an ABET-accredited institution required (concentration in Power Systems strongly preferred).
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license preferred.
• Must possess or be able to obtain CPR and First Aid certifications.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of direct experience in electric system protection & control, power system planning, or SCADA.
• 5+ years of total experience in an electric utility environment preferred.
• 2+ years of substation construction and project management experience preferred.

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Familiarity with regional and national regulatory standards (NERC, SERC, RFC, or similar).
• Working knowledge of electric distribution construction specifications, standards, and safety codes.
• Basic proficiency in computer programming, drafting/AutoCAD, and advanced Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word).
• Experience with RUS (Rural Utilities Service) regulations and contracting is a plus.

Core Competencies & Behavioral Expectations

• Problem Solving & Critical Thinking: Ability to dissect complex technical issues systematically and extract actionable data to project future grid needs.
• Communication & Collaboration: Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal skills with a proven track record of breaking down functional silos.
• Adaptability & Leadership: Comfortable managing shifting priorities in a dynamic environment; natural ability to lead, mentor, and motivate peers.
• Professionalism: Maintains composure, sound judgment, and professionalism under high-stress or emergency situations.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Schedule: Full-time with flexibility required. Participation in the Operations Center On-Call rotation is required.
• Emergency Response: Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays during weather events or power outages to assist in service restoration.
• Work Environment: Hybrid indoor office work and outdoor field site visits in varying weather conditions.
• Physical Capabilities: Occasional lifting up to 30 lbs, standing, walking, climbing, or stooping during site inspections.
• Transportation: Must possess a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and access to reliable personal transportation. Must maintain a reliable home phone or mobile phone for emergency contact.