Planning Engineer

Distribution Planning Engineer Join our dynamic team as a Planning Engineer within the Distribution Department. You will collaborate with senior engineers and customer planning teams to conduct critical analyses on grid systems. Your role will involve conducting load flow studies, voltage drops, and inter-connectabilities, ensuring the smooth operation and efficiency of the grid. This position offers a unique opportunity to work directly with customers and contribute to impactful engineering projects. Responsibilities + Develop DACR Phase 3 models, scopes, and device spreadsheets under the direction of senior engineers. + Build and update CYMDIST base cases and feeder models for distribution automation projects. + Conduct coordination and basic arc-flash studies using standard templates. + Prepare design packages for recloser placements, tie configurations, and control upgrades. + Maintain documentation for block diagrams, device settings, and load limit summaries. + Support QA/QC reviews using the DACR Engineering Checklist and participate in milestone reviews. + Coordinate with engineers, planners, and field personnel to confirm design details and resolve discrepancies. + Upload and track project documents within Smartsheet, STORMS, and ADS SharePoint repositories. + Configure and verify protection settings for reclosers, Smart Switches, and automated devices. + Assist with communication integration for telemetered devices, including radio and antenna upgrades. + Support review of breaker relay changes and protection updates. Essential Skills + Proficiency in CYME, Distribution Automation, and Reliability Engineering. + Experience with Protection Device Coordination and Power Distribution. + Expertise in Power Systems and Relay Settings. + Familiarity with Distribution Planning Studies and DACR. + Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Power Systems Engineering from an ABET-accredited university. + 2-5 years of experience in utility or EPC environments focused on distribution design, protection, or automation. + Working knowledge of distribution standards and CYME/ASPEN tools. + Familiarity with protective device coordination, relay settings, and feeder automation. + EIT certification preferred or ability to obtain within 12 months. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Birmingham, AL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $55.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully remote position. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Nov 20, 2025. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.