​My client is seeking a Lead Interconnection Engineer with a strong technical background and proven experience in PV system design and interconnection. This role is vital for providing specialized support to project managers and ensuring that their projects are not only technically sound but also optimized for cost and efficiency.

This position reports to the Manager, Grid Integration Engineering and will work closely with internal teams including Engineering, Business Development, Policy, and Asset Management to develop and commission commercial and industrial renewable designs. You will be hybrid out of our Chicago office with some business travel to other locations.

Responsibilities:

• Manage a portfolio of utility interconnection applications from initial submission through project close out.

• Function as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on technical standards (i.e. IEEE 1547, NFPA 70, UL 1741, etc.) and requirements (utility) for Distributed Generation projects within an assigned geographic region.

• Perform detailed review, analysis, advanced QA/QC and interpretation of technical documentation, utility interconnection applications, utility pre-screen reports, System Impact Studies, and Interconnection Service Agreements.

• Provide expert technical advice during study reviews and deliver recommendations to internal teams on study outcomes.

• Prepare interconnection cost estimation and hosting capacity map analyses to assist development in identifying low-cost interconnection locations.

• Work alongside Project Managers on value engineering and cost optimization for projects.

• Act as technical consulting support during negotiations and disputes regarding project timelines and costs for assigned projects.

• Participate in the technical closure of projects, including field support along with reviewing witness tests and energization procedures. May also attend site visits and witness tests as required.

• Number of projects actively supporting at a given time should be 90+.

• Lead and contribute to complex and advanced special projects aimed at refining internal processes and setting industry standards, with a focus on innovation in interconnection means and methods. This may include (but not limited to) non-wires alternatives, selective curtailment, and other grid-enhancing technologies.

• Building and managing key relationships with internal stakeholders, and driving strategic developments and insights.

• Leading comprehensive technical assessments to identify interconnection challenges in a given region and creating solutions to overcome technical hurdles (to improve project success).

• Support technical working groups both internally and externally.

• Participate in project design reviews; review of single line diagrams, three-line diagrams, and site layout designs for compliance with utility requirements, which may include incorporating any utility design requirements and/or effective grounding equipment.

• Respond to RFIs on active construction projects as required.

• Provide guidance and recommendations for navigating change with utilities.

• Mentor Interconnection Engineers, sharing expertise and leading by example in all aspects of interconnection processes.

• Support business development through pre-application activities such as site selection based on thorough analysis.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of relevant experience with a utility, solar developer, Regional Transmission Organization (RTO), or consultancy, focusing on technical aspects of interconnection or interconnection-related activities and issues.

• Strong knowledge of industry standard design codes such as National Electric Code, International Building Code, International Fire Code and other standards relevant to the industry.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.

• Working knowledge (or Moderate Proficiency) in AutoCAD software.

• Moderate proficiency with MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Moderate proficiency with MS collaboration tools (Salesforce, Teams, Power BI, SharePoint, etc).

• Valid Drivers License.

• Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred

• Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple projects and tasks.

• Demonstrated experience in effectively communicating information, ideas, and perspectives with people inside and beyond your organization.

• Experience in showcasing initiative to make improvements to current work, processes, products, and services across the organization. We value accountability and an ownership mentality.

• Ability to ask appropriate questions, analyze data, identify the root causes of problems, and present creative solutions.

• Expertise in building strong internal and external relationships with customers and stakeholders, instilling trust and loyalty across the industry.

Benefits:

• A competitive compensation package

• 401(k) employer-match; health, dental, and vision insurance starting day one

• Flexible paid time off and holiday PTO

• Commuter benefits, cell phone reimbursement; as well as a hybrid work environment.