Engineer I/II/III/Principal Engineer - Distribution Planning

PPL Foundation; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the utilities sector is seeking a Principal Engineer to supervise and mentor engineers and technicians. This role includes ensuring compliance with safety standards, developing leadership skills within the team, and overseeing technical quality. An engineering degree and significant experience in the utility industry are essential.

Qualifications

• Engineer I: Bachelor's degree in engineering required.
• Engineer II: 2 years of experience beyond Engineer I.
• Engineer III: 5 years of experience, knowledge of utility regulations.
• Principal Engineer: 10+ years experience and utility knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead and organize work group activities to meet deadlines.
• Evaluate staff performance to develop talent.
• Assist in developing process improvements.
• Train, coach, and develop team members.

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university

Job description

Company Summary Statement

PPL Electric Utilities delivers safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million homes and businesses throughout its 29-county service territory in eastern and central Pennsylvania. Through smart investments and innovation, it has built one of the most advanced electric grids in the United States. With over a century of expertise, PPL Electric remains focused on building the utility of the future, today. Regularly ranking among the country’s best utility companies for reliability and customer satisfaction, PPL Electric has won numerous awards, including 30 J.D. Power Awards for top-quality service. PPL Electric is a major employer and actively supports the communities it serves through volunteerism and investments in education, sustainability, and wellbeing.

Overview

This role involves directing, coordinating, and supervising daily activities of engineers and technicians in related fields. The position is responsible for supervision, coaching, mentoring, safety leadership, and technical guidance, ensuring high-quality, timely, and cost-effective solutions. The role also oversees the technical quality of the group's output and seeks continuous improvement. Decisions are guided by policies, procedures, and business plans, with individual technical and business assignments supporting department goals and projects.

Responsibilities

1. Lead and organize work group activities to meet deadlines.
2. Evaluate staff performance to develop talent and expertise.
3. Develop leadership skills and coordinate technical training.
4. Collaborate with other departments on cross-functional teams.
5. Assist in developing process improvements and recommend implementations.
6. Participate in budget preparation, monitoring, and forecasting.
7. Support department goals and metrics development.
8. Supervise engineers and technicians across locations.
9. Train, coach, and develop team members.
10. Assess workload, manpower, and technical abilities, recommending additional resources if needed.
11. Monitor engineering contractors and consultants.
12. Research and analyze technical and business plans, providing recommendations.
13. Review and revise procedures for administrative and technical improvements.
14. Promote a strong safety culture through leadership and communication.
15. Prioritize tasks and coordinate activities with other supervisors.
16. Manage storm restoration efforts and participate in training.
17. Assist in investigations of power system incidents.
18. Perform special tasks or projects as assigned.
19. Supervise in-person employees to ensure compliance with safety and wage laws.
20. Ensure safety-sensitive functions are adhered to where applicable.
21. Perform other duties as assigned and comply with policies and standards.

Qualifications

Engineer I: Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited college or university. Discipline varies by job requirements.

Engineer II: Meets Engineer I requirements plus at least two years of engineering experience.

Engineer III: Meets Engineer I and II requirements plus at least five years of engineering experience and knowledge of utility industry regulations.

Principal Engineer: Meets Engineer I and II requirements plus a minimum of 10 years of engineering experience and utility industry knowledge.