Renewables Integration Project Manager / Engineer

Renewables Integration Project Manager / Engineer

SCS Fleet Operations, Operations Services Department

WORK LOCATION

This position will be based out of Birmingham, AL at the Energy Center with the flexibility for telework on a limited basis, currently 1 day each week.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Operation Services group in Fleet Operations provides integration, analytical and administrative support to Fleet Operations and the generating plants to ensure reliable and cost-effective operations of the Southern Company power pool. As the Southern Company fleet rapidly transitions from conventional generating units to include more solar, storage, and other renewable resources, our tools and processes must evolve to respond to the unique challenges of these resources as well as the new capabilities they bring. This position is responsible for providing leadership, knowledge and technical skills to successfully integrate and optimize renewables and emerging resources into Fleet Operations. Through influence and partnerships within the organization and across the enterprise, the position will develop and drive strategic direction, generate methodologies for optimal integration of assets, while also providing operational support to unit commitment and real time operations.

This position will be filled at a Level 6 or 7, based on the relevant experience/ qualifications of the successful candidate.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in a technical / analytical area is required

Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• Experience or working knowledge of system operations (unit commitment, economic dispatch, reserves, NERC standards), power plant operation, and the Intercompany Interchange Contract (IIC)/power pool operation

• Detailed understanding of renewable (solar, wind) generation, energy storage, and how they affect system operations

• Must be able to think creatively and independently to develop innovative business solutions and strategies to address complex and new problems associated with the transitioning fleet

• Proven ability to quickly build credibility and influence others as a team leader and as an individual contributor

• Extensive project management abilities and organizational skills with proficiency in prioritizing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

• Extensive experience in effectively communicating complex topics, including preparing and presenting studies, reports, and project results to all levels of leadership and peer groups

• Agile and fast learner as this is a rapidly expanding area of the business due to relentless change in technology, customer interest, and political desires

• Experience in related areas such as asset management, contract development, integrated planning, plant controls and operation, transmission operations, and distribution operations is a plus.

MAJOR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Advance the adoption of operational requirements (e.g. AGC for solar generators; BESS operations) for inverter-based resources through influence, communication, and technical expertise.

• Lead the integration of solar, storage and solar with storage into the Southern fleet

  • Manage operational expectations and changes to processes

  • Develop forecasts, test plans, and an optimization strategy

• Partner and consult across the enterprise on operational needs and impacts in the development and deployment of renewable generation and battery storage projects

• Lead/support demonstration and research projects to advance the operation and integration of renewables into system operations

• Support the integration of distributed resources via new tool and process development as the penetration level grows

• Improve the effectiveness and efficiency of existing operational tools and processes (solar generation forecasts, tools for communicating outages and derates, automatic generation control, etc.). Provide leadership in the scoping, development and implementation of new tools as business needs evolve.

BEHAVIORAL ATTRIBUTES

• Demonstrate Southern Company Values – Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance

• Safety focus and a strong personal safety record 

• Demonstrated initiative and creativity coupled with a strong customer service focus will be expected

• Must lead by example and ensure equity and fairness in interactions with others 

• Must conduct self in a manner that builds trust and confidence with coworkers, contractors, supervisors, and management 

BENEFITS

• Competitive Pay

• Excellent benefits packages which includes:

  • Medical and dental coverage

  • Defined Pension/Cash Balance Benefit Plan

  • Performance-sharing plan

  • 401(k) plan with a generous company match

  • Bonus opportunities

  • Tuition Reimbursement

Please submit an updated resume with your application

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million residential and commercial customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy infrastructure company with national capabilities, a fiber optics network, and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability, we are taking action to meet our customers’ and communities’ needs while advancing our commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture and hiring practices have earned the company national awards and recognition from numerous organizations, including Forbes, Military Times, DiversityInc, Black Enterprise, J.D. Power, Fortune, Human Rights Campaign and more. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com .

Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf . Additional and specific details about total compensation and benefits will also be provided during the hiring process.

Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Job Identification: 10736

Job Category: Engineering

Job Schedule: Full time

Company: Southern Company Services