Metering Applications Engineer Full Time

Help us Reimagine Rural America!

Bandera Electric Cooperative proudly distributes electricity to members across seven counties in Central Texas. The BEC Fiber division, began offering 100% fiber broadband in 2017 and currently provides fiber internet service to members and subscribers in eight counties in the Texas Hill Country.

We offer Highly Competitive Wages and a Generous Benefit Package!! (no waiting period – benefits start on first day). Paid time off and ten paid holidays.

Our Engineering Department is looking for a Metering Applications Engineer. The Metering Application Engineer is responsible for leading and executing engineering activities at BEC, applies technical knowledge and sound engineering principles to ensure that the electrical system meets the present and future requirements. The engineer will provide accurate data analysis and recommendations to Engineering, and other departments, guaranteeing adequate Metering of the electrical systems present and future requirements; plans and directs analysis of complex business problems to be solved by the Cooperative, including Outage management, Dispatch systems, Energy Efficiency and Sustainability, Distributed Generation Interconnections, and engineering planning system.

Essential Job Duties

Electrical Services

• Provide guidance and assistance in the engineering activities of the cooperative.
• Oversee all metering applications, activities, technical support services such as monitoring calibration, proper selection of metering devices, associated current and potential transformers/transducers, the associated testing and repair, and technical assessments.
• Assist in developing and documenting manufacturing assembly processes, specifications, procedures, product and cost analysis, technical material to support bid documentation, and providing technical training for internal resources.
• Guide and develop energy efficiency and sustainability provided by the Apolloware DERMS and metering platforms. Focus on metering and verification services in support of demand side management and research projects associated with various large and small power systems (distributed generation and energy storage, HVAC systems, various pumps, etc.).
• Analyses large data sets to find troubled or optimized energy usages schemes and makes recommendations for a resilient and reliable electric grid.
• Oversees all functions regarding the BEC lighting, including current and future inventory, light standards, light sensors, installation/maintenance processes, etc.
• Works closely with other engineers to evaluate and analyze the electric grid and its associated functions, including transmission, substation, and distribution system.
• Manages projects as assigned, including all aspects for planning, design, construction, and operation.
• Works closely with system operations to ascertain the availability and functioning of the metering system during normal and outages scenarios.
• Cooperate with the optical fiber communications group to integrate next generation grid devices.
• Regularly observes Aclara meter alerts to ensure meters are functioning as intended and to be on the latest software updates.
• Effectively and efficiently address and assist others in addressing member and employee questions and complaints.
• Utilizes a variety of engineering planning and designing software, such as Aclara, Apolloware, or Milsoft for project support functions.
• Review new and existing technologies and evaluate trends in the metering and metering support industry and the associated software platforms.
• Recommend and integrate changes to the current practices in the meter installation, monitoring, and billing process.
• Provide guidance and/or assistance in the maintenance, upgrade, and integration of the Outage Management, dispatch systems by working closely with engineering personnel, other departments, manufacturers, and vendors.
• Manage projects and schedules for smart grid applications and energy topics and create new business development initiatives.
• Proficient to operate BEC’s enterprise software, such as NiSC.
• Assist in budgets and special projects for the department.
• Represent the Cooperative at local, state, and national organizations and meetings.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Knowledge of large data collection methods, analyses, and verification of data.
• Knowledge of the National Electric Code (NEC) and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC).
• Thorough knowledge of electric metering safety requirements and safe work practices. All practices are set up according to established codes, rules, good engineering practices, and specifications.
• Ability to provide recommendations in improving the metering systems.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively on market transforming projects and programs that promote future technologies, energy efficiency and sustainability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to details.
• Organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong computer skills.

Qualifications And Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Engineering License (Optional).

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an electric utility system, primary and secondary metering and service equipment, and AMI systems technology is desired.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Texas Driver’s License and Related Insurance.
• Must pass a background and drug screening.