Senior Planner
Company Overview
Join our dynamic team at Cornerstone Utility Engineering, a premier engineering firm specializing in planning and design services for large utility companies. We focus on electrical transmission and distribution projects, delivering innovative and high-quality solutions that meet and exceed client expectations. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to enhancing the communities we serve, we drive the success of essential utility infrastructure projects. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a skilled and knowledgeable Senior Planner to join our team. This role will contribute expertise and support to our engineering operations, ensuring the highest standards of technical excellence and client satisfaction.
Job Description
The Senior Planner is a top-tier technical expert responsible for leading the most complex distribution design projects, overseeing major infrastructure replacement efforts, and providing guidance and mentorship across the planning team. Senior Planners serve as subject-matter experts in SCE standards, engineering principles, customer coordination, and quality control review.
Responsibilities
- Lead technical planning for major, high-complexity electrical utility distribution projects.
- Define advanced design scope and operational requirements for electrical and civil distribution designs.
- Oversee and lead infrastructure replacement programs (WCR, capacitor upgrades, cable replacements, AR programs, etc.) and specialty projects with significant customer or system impact.
- Prepare, review, approve, and finalize work order packages.
- Apply relatable expertise, knowledge, and experience to all electric utility preferences, companies and standards and train others to adapt to new work types quickly.
- Acquire permits/easements, gather site data, and identify environmental requirements.
- Determine material needs, construction labor, sequencing, and timelines for execution.
- Coordinate extensively with engineering and field teams, project managers, management, local agencies, and customers.
- Lead technical problem-solving efforts for planners, and field teams.
- Train, guide, and quality check the work of Planners, Associate Planners, and Trainees.
- Serve as the primary resource for resolving complex technical issues.
- Leverage internal systems (DM, SAP, AUD) and reference books (DDS, ESR, UGS) to analyze information, solve problems, and support project needs.
- Ensure proper application engineering standards, construction requirements, and client & SCE guidelines to create compliant designs.
- Manage a portfolio of 15–20+ jobs simultaneously (volume adjusted based on workload).
- Spearhead training programs for the development of the team's proficiency in SPIDACALC, design standards, overhead/underground construction methods, and customer engagement.
- Maintain a safety-conscious work environment following Cornerstone and client safety protocols.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Five or more years of distribution planning experience preferred.
- Expert-level knowledge of engineering principles, distribution design, construction standards, and electrical service requirements.
- Expert-level experience with SCE systems (DM, SAP, AUD, SPIDACALC) and resource materials (DDS, ESR, UGS).
- Strong interpersonal skills for handling customer relations effectively, resulting in positive outcomes.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects, function under tight deadlines, shift priorities, and make critical decisions with no supervision.
- Strong oral and written communication skills, with a customer-focused approach to understanding and responding to client needs.
- Experience determining scope, method of service, and work order preparation for overhead/underground facilities.
- Effective collaboration skills to interface with clients, peers, management, and other work units.
- Initiative and accountability for the accuracy of information and achieving results.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and CAD Software (eg AutoCAD)
- Ability to drive, traverse uneven surfaces, occasionally lift up to 40 lbs, sit/stand for extended periods, and possibly work in various weather conditions.
Compensation
$93,600.00 - $145,600.00 annually, depending on experience and productivity.
Benefits
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance with company contributions.
- Voluntary Life Insurance options.
- Company-sponsored 401(k) plan with a 4% company match.
- Generous paid time off: 120 hours of vacation and 40 hours of sick leave annually.
- Company-paid holidays.
- Financial Wellness Program: SmartDollar
- Paid FMLA/Birth and Bonding leave.
- Opportunities for company spot bonuses as a token of appreciation.
Why Cornerstone Utility Engineering?
- Innovative Environment: Be part of a forward-thinking company that values creativity and innovation.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement.
- Supportive Culture: Work in a collaborative and supportive environment where your contributions are valued.
- Impactful Work: Play a crucial role in designing and implementing high-voltage power systems that make a difference.