Director, Distribution System Planning

11/13/2024

Locations: Berlin, Connecticut; Westwood, Massachusetts

Role and Scope of Position:
Accountable for directing the optimal performance and utilization of system assets through the management of the System Planning area for each statewide Eversource electric distribution systems. The director is responsible for coordinating significantly with several internal departments. This position directs the development of Distribution Planning criteria across three state jurisdictions, assessment of system adequacy and reliability, defining the need, size, location, priority, timing and justification of major distribution system projects, incorporation of distribution capital investment proposals into the budget process, etc. Responsible for the directing the development of long-term scenario-based plans for distribution system expansion, replacement and reinforcement. The position is also responsible for reliable integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) across the three states within Eversource’s footprint – leading technical teams in development of distribution system expansion, overseeing the DER Interconnection queue as well as leading development of internal processes and associated controls to ensure Interconnection studies and timelines comply with the applicable state jurisdictions. The Director will be charged with development of the Eversource Distribution Plan – and leading the execution of that plan from conception through its lifecycle including serving as an expert witness before state as well as local jurisdictional siting agencies and in other forums as is needed. The position is also accountable for maintaining the appropriate level of risk and maximizing system performance for a given level of investment. Provides technical support on operations issues and develops responses for technical questions from regulatory agencies. The position is also responsible for policy advocacy, establishing goals, monitoring and reporting results, and continuous improvement.

Essential Functions: 

• Directs the electric distribution system planning and DER Interconnection planning, including compliance with state tariffs, industry standards and regulations and environmental programs, policies, rules and regulations.
• Directs the development of System facilities plan to identify areas requiring additional facilities to permit growth and interconnections between distribution systems and other transmission companies.
• Oversees and directs the coordination of activities across Company departments and with outside organizations including transmission companies.
• Provides direction to the changing needs of the distribution system based upon various scenarios and long- range outlook of load growth, EV (electric vehicle) penetration, PV (photovoltaic) growth among other evolving technologies.
• Establishes and monitors system network capabilities, utilization and performance measures.
• Collaborates with other departments/engineers on preliminary design of system projects.
• Respond to regulator changes and communicate to appropriate parties; represent Eversource at rate case hearings, siting board petitions and regulatory proceedings.
• Implements best practices to achieve efficient and effective planning activities considering load growth, electrification and DER needs.
• Directs the department by establishing and monitoring area goals, policies, plans, programs, performance objectives and budget. 
• Analyzes and recommends resource levels to plan, develop and implement programs and policies. 
• Establishes operational and financial objectives and aligns with department goals. 
• Oversees the management and development of area staff.  Assesses the need for and oversees implementation of programs to ensure employees possess technical, interpersonal and organizational skills required to support operating plans.  Supervises, selects, coaches and develops area staff.

Technical Knowledge/Skill/Education/Licenses/Certifications:

Technical Knowledge/Skills:

• Requires thorough knowledge and experience in electric distribution planning, system analysis, computer applications and modeling, operations support, budgeting, project analysis, working cross-functionally and communicating.  Demonstrated leadership in strategic planning.
• Strong understanding of the distribution power system, distribution models – including modeling of DERs, study practices and planning processes in different regions within US.

Education:                                  

• Requires a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering, Electrical preferred. 
• Advanced degree such as M.S.E.E. or MBA preferred.

Experiences:                           

• Minimum of twelve (12) years of experience in system planning, engineering or operations management, including supervisory experience.   

Licenses & Certifications:

• Professional Engineer’s License preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Must be available to work emergency restoration assignment as required.
• Must be available to travel between MA/CT/NH as necessary.

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Worker Type:

Regular

Number of Openings:

1

EEO Statement

Eversource Energy is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status.

VEVRRA Federal Contractor

Emergency Response:

Responding to emergency situations to meet customers’ needs is part of every employee’s role. If employed, you will be given an Emergency Restoration assignment.  This means you may be called to assist during an emergency outside of your normal responsibilities, work hours and location.