Utility Controls Engineer

Engineer - Utility Industry Controls
Energy Management
Position Description
University of Minnesota

Description of Position

This position provides technical engineering oversight of the University of Minnesota electric utility Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system under the direction of Senior/Principal Utility Controls Engineer(s) and Electrical Engineers. Recommend, develop, design, and implement SCADA system control and monitoring strategies in cooperation with the engineers to enhance the robust operation of the electric distribution system, advance the SCADA system for increased situational awareness, and maintain security of university assets.

Responsibilities

60% - Under the direct supervision of Senior and Principal Engineers, manage the SCADA system functional development. Maintain network, servers, and field devices through trouble shooting, configuration programming, and backup to protect and maintain safe, reliable electrical distribution systems control and operation. Maintain the SCADA database for consistency and conformance to industry and university design standards. Monitor field equipment alarms/issues and provide direction to staff for troubleshooting and resolution of issues.

15% - Develop and revise graphics for the SCADA system. Maintain electric metering network maps and documentation. Build and maintain custom reports for database information access pertaining to system equipment, control configuration and monitoring, and generation metering reports to support Energy Management business operations.

10% - Develop and maintain written standards, procedures and provide instruction in maintaining, operating and troubleshooting the SCADA system.

5% - Collaborate with other Facilities Management areas in developing shared information between SCADA, GIS, Asset Management and other utility systems to improve functional use of data.

5% - Research and recommend communications equipment to use based upon cost, usability, and long-term maintainability. Provide engineering review of SCADA equipment in support of capital construction, repair and renewal project design documents to ensure conformance with university standards. Follow up during project implementation to ensure the recommendations are being followed.

5% - Provide technical support to project teams, engineers, technicians and electrical trades responsible for repair, maintenance, and operations of medium voltage electric distribution infrastructure.

Work Environment

Work is performed in an office setting as well as in the field. This position will be exposed to hazards requiring hearing, visual and electrical shock PPE protection. Must be able to walk and climb in various weather conditions to physically access work sites, including mechanical/electrical equipment rooms, and electric vaults.

Classification: 9741E1 Engineer 1
Status: Exempt

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field. At least two years of
experience, which may include student internship(s), in design, technology evaluation, and project
review activities in the areas of utility control systems (preferably SCADA systems) or information
technology.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Required:
* Experience working in an I.T. environment
* Ability to troubleshoot, upgrade, backup and manage Microsoft OS
* Computer programming experience
* Networking and server management/maintenance skills
* Basic understanding of a relational database
* Understanding of network serial and ethernet communications
* Ability to work collaboratively with others to address and resolve problems
* Highly developed written (including technical writing), verbal, interpersonal skills with both internal and external partners
* Strong organizational and detail-oriented skills
* Proven analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
* Proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite
* Ability and desire to work independently with minimal supervision

Desired But Not Required:
* Basic knowledge of electric distribution systems and associated equipment
* Previous experience working with or developing a SCADA system
* C++ and/or C# programming experience
* Maintaining and optimizing MSSQL databases
* Knowledge of Modbus, DNP3, and BACnet protocols
* AutoCAD experience
* Arc GIS experience
* Graphic design/development experience

Pay Range: $64,431 - $87,171.36, depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).