Real Time Distribution Systems Engineer

Operate the grid. Modernize the grid. Shape the future.Portland General Electric (PGE) is seeking an experienced, impact-driven Power Systems Engineer to join our Integrated Operations Center; the nerve center for real-time distribution grid management across Oregon.In this role, you’ll provide critical engineering support for live grid operations, maintain and refine the as-operated system model, and help lead our journey toward a smarter, more automated grid. You’ll work directly with control room operators, planners, field engineers, and smart grid teams to ensure our grid is reliable, resilient, and ready for tomorrow.This role is open to both Distribution Operations Engineers and Senior Distribution Operations Engineers. Title and level will be determined based on your experience and demonstrated qualifications.Key ResponsibilitiesFor All LevelsMaintain PGE’s as-operated distribution system model in our Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) and Outage Management System (OMS).Refine and support advanced distribution applications including:Distribution Power Flow (DPF)Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR)Load forecasting toolsReview system configurations, switching procedures, and planned outages for engineering soundness and reliability.Provide real-time technical support to Distribution System Operators during outages and abnormal events.Collaborate cross-functionally with engineers, field crews, and customer managers to ensure modeling reflects real-world conditions.For Senior-Level CandidatesAct as technical lead or SME on complex real-time switching sequences, system protection issues, and voltage regulation strategies.Lead or support grid automation and system modeling projects to enhance operational efficiency and reliability.Serve as engineering SME for large or staged construction projects, coordinating modeling and energization steps.Resolve configuration anomalies in ADMS and OMS through engineering review and stakeholder collaboration.Guide improvement efforts across power flow calculations, automation logic, and operational strategy.QualificationsEducation Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (ABET-accredited program preferred).Experience- Distribution Operations Engineer: 2+ years in electrical/power engineering.- Senior Level: 5+ years in engineering OR 4+ years with PE license.CertificationsProfessional Engineer (PE) license strongly preferred. Valid driver’s license required.Technical Skills- ADMS, OMS, and power system modeling platforms- Distribution protection schemes and automation- Voltage control equipment and clearance management- Utility safety and operations standardsSoft SkillsStrong analytical thinking, communication, collaboration, and the ability to translate technical insights into operational actions.Preferred QualificationsDirect experience supporting a utility control center or working in real-time operations.Familiarity with SCADA integration, outage response procedures, and NESC or utility-specific design standards.Exposure to smart grid initiatives, DER integration, and field validation processes.Ability to mentor junior engineers or lead cross-functional teams on technical investigations.Work EnvironmentLocation: PGE’s Integrated Operations Center (Tualatin, OR)Schedule: Full-time; occasional rotational or emergency support may applyTravel: Minimal, limited to field or team coordination within service territoryFlexibility: Hybrid schedule may be available based on team needs and responsibilitiesFunctional Competencies:Advanced knowledge of engineering and economic principles and concepts.Advanced knowledge of other engineering disciplines and Advanced ability to interpret engineering deliverable content as assigned.Advanced knowledge and application of engineering processes and procedures.Advanced industry knowledge and technology trends.Advanced knowledge of company QA/QC process and procedures.Working knowledge of construction feasibility.Working knowledge of procurement and contract administration.Advanced knowledge of process and procedures for project controls and estimates.Advanced knowledge of applicable codes and standards related to the design and operation of the electrical distribution system.Working skill designing overhead and underground distribution facilities, including relevant civil and electrical subsystems.Advanced knowledge of real-time and off-line power flow and power system analysis software applications.Advanced knowledge of work management, asset management, GIS and outage-management software applications.Advanced knowledge of distribution protection schemes and device-coordination principles.General Competencies:Advanced accuracy skills. Advanced analytical thinking skills.Working knowledge of the utility industry.Advanced organization and prioritization skills.Advanced problem-solving skills.Advanced decision-making skills.Advanced written and oral communication skills.Advanced presentation skills.Physical and Cognitive Demands:Consistent use of relevant principles to solve practical problems and to deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.Ability to adhere to set response times, deadlines, and time-sensitive tasksAbility to follow accuracy standardsAbility to follow through on decision-making tasksAbility to interact effectively and collaboratively within a team environmentAbility to communicate and problem solve when under stressAbility to respond and adapt to frequent changeAbility to accept and demonstrate self-awareness when provided constructive feedbackAbility to discern feedback and acknowledge ownership of areas of improvementAbility to avoid future mistakes by applying reasonable skills to new but similar work situations or tasksAbility to successfully collaborate with peers, managers, and others within the organizationDemonstrates sound memoryAbility to process new information to be applied consistently to work tasksSchedule/Attendance:Ability to adhere to pre-established schedule, including start/stop time and break/lunch scheduleAbility to work long hoursAbility to work a variable scheduleAbility to report to work and perform work during periods of severe inclement weatherAbility to consistently meet attendance standards for regular, reliable, predictable, full-time attendance.Ability to work shift scheduleAbility to work on-call schedulePhysical Capabilities:Driving/travel/commute: Daily within service territory - Frequently (at least once a week or more)Driving/travel/commute: Overnight inside/outside the service territory - Occasionally (one to two times a month or less)Computer use (use computer regularly for entire work shift)Lifting/pushing/pulling: up to 10 lbs.Carrying: up to 10 lbs.Unstable surfaces requiring balance (i.e., moving equipment, boats):Walking distances and surfaces (long distances and over rough, uneven or rocky surfaces)Environment - Indoor/Outdoor:OfficePlantField