Senior/Principal Transmission Planning Engineer


San Diego
Permanent
USD140000 - USD200000
Power Delivery
PR/543462_1745948717
Senior/Principal Transmission Planning Engineer

Join a mission-critical team that keeps the grid reliable, resilient, and ready for the future.
We're seeking a seasoned Transmission Planning Engineer to lead regional system planning efforts that support a clean, reliable, and efficient electric grid. You'll take charge of baseline reliability and load/zone planning studies, ensure compliance with industry standards, and help shape the long-term vision for transmission system development in one of the most dynamic regions in the country.


What You'll Do

  • Lead regional system planning efforts, including long-term reliability and load growth studies.

  • Develop and execute transmission and substation expansion plans to meet future demand and reliability needs.

  • Build and analyze power flow models to evaluate system capabilities, identify risks, and support investment decisions.

  • Collaborate with load-serving entities, generation developers, regulatory agencies, and other transmission owners to ensure an aligned and efficient planning process.

  • Analyze recurring system trends (e.g., voltage violations, congestion) and recommend strategic upgrades or operational changes.

  • Conduct economic assessments and feasibility studies to support project development and resource allocation.

  • Support the integration of distributed energy resources and microgrids into the bulk power system.

  • Identify opportunities to reduce losses, improve system efficiency, and support sustainability goals.

  • Represent the organization at regional planning councils and RTO working groups to advocate for system improvements and coordinate with industry peers.

  • Provide technical input for licensing, certification, and permitting of new transmission lines and substation facilities.


What You Bring

  • 8+ years of experience in power systems or transmission planning.

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program - or PE license in lieu of degree.

  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) - required.

  • Strong command of power flow analysis, power system modeling, and planning standards (e.g., NERC, WECC).

  • Proficiency in technical tools and software for system studies and data analysis.

  • Experience with load forecasting, system reliability analysis, and project scoping.

  • Ability to navigate regulatory environments and engage with diverse stakeholders.

  • Proven experience in project/program management and cross-functional collaboration.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Engineering.

  • Prior experience working in California's transmission planning landscape or within an RTO/ISO environment.


Work Location & Flexibility

  • Hybrid Schedule: Work onsite 3 days per week with flexibility to work remotely the rest.

  • Must reside in Southern California or be willing to relocate upon hire.


If you're passionate about grid reliability, future-focused planning, and working at the intersection of engineering and energy innovation, we want to hear from you.

FAQs

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