Director Distributed Generation Interconnection

Origis Energy’s Transmission & Interconnection group is seeking an Interconnection Director for our Distributed Power business unit who is experienced, creative, self-starting and highly motivated to Manage the distribution-scale solar and energy storage Interconnection pipeline across the US. The ideal candidate should be knowledgeable in a broad range of electrical engineering applications, have experience in the solar/storage energy sector, and be able to work collaboratively with a diverse team. 

The Director of Distribution Interconnections is heavily involved in the company’s development strategy related to its portfolio of existing and proposed distribution-scale solar and energy storage projects, and will interact daily with the company’s project development team that consists of subject matter experts in real estate, environmental & permitting, engineering, origination, finance, GIS, procurement, etc. The ideal candidate will work alongside with our internal Transmission Modeling team to provide ongoing technical engineering support for various generation interconnection (GI) studies, coordinate with outside consultants to manage the GI study process associated with various utilities and ISOs, and review and critique interconnection study results. Additionally, will also ensure compliance with relevant tariffs/rules and represent the company’s interests at various States/Utilities/ISOs/RTOs to shape renewable energy policy.

The Interconnection Director is a regular, full-time position, and is eligible for our generous employee benefits package, including employer paid health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions, and other great benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Familiar with TOs/ISO s all throughout the US including but not limited to NYISO, ISO-NE, PJM, ERCOT,  MISO, SPP, CAISO, WECC
• Familiar with means to identify distribution facilities, sizes and voltages
• Familiar with the distribution planning and interconnection procedures
• Work closely with in-house System Modeling team or consultants to identify potential POI’s for new greenfield projects
• Familiar with distribution modeling software such as Milsoft, ETAP, Synergy Electric, DgSilent, CYME, PSS SINCAL etc.
• Evaluation of distribution hosting capacity for different markets/regions
• Evaluation of Interconnection study reports and coordination with Business Development, Project Dev, and Finance Team
• Oversee and coordinate the entirety of the interconnection process from filing to post-GIA phases
• Manage daily interconnection tasks for various renewable projects for prospective projects and projects under development
• Develop distribution strategy and provide expert opinion for grid distribution related topics
• Familiar with Regulatory orders that may benefit renewables
• Perform due diligence on interconnection materials to support project acquisition efforts
• Working knowledge of State/ISO/Utility interconnection Rules/Tariffs
• Provide creative and knowledgeable input to assist in the growth of the company’s resource development pipeline; including project site identification, project size optimization, fatal flaw analysis, interconnection queue management, tariff assessment and risk mitigation strategies.
• Support budget forecasting and provide guidance to minimize financial risk throughout the GI study process.
• Suggest creative bidding strategies that utilize knowledge of the distribution/transmission systems and thoughtful assessment of study results and hedging options.
• Maintain accurate GI data in the company’s proprietary data base.
• Develop processes to effectively manage all interconnection planning activities.
• Provide regular reports to management and project teams regarding project milestones and critical path decisions.
• Coordinate with internal teams and outside consultants to reach consensus on interconnection strategy and estimated project costs.
• Participate in various public forums and represent the interests of The Company at industry related meetings, conferences and/or legislative events.
• Develop strong relationships with outside stakeholders such as TO/ISO/RTO representatives.
• Final – Coordination with management and legal to support execution of the Interconnection Agreement

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering required, preferably with an emphasis in power systems.
• Master of Science Degree in Power Systems and/or a Master of Business Administration Degree highly preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in renewable power system analysis or related fields.
• Familiar with variety of Utility DG experience
• Generation Interconnection model development experience at a utility or RTO is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated competence in state/ FERC/ISO/RTO working groups, contract negotiations, or other related business experience is also valued.
• Must have good analytical, decision-making, communication, creative problem-solving, and human relations skills.
• Must be organized, self-motivated and capable of working both independently and in group settings.

 Key Attributes for Success

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills
• High attention to detail
• Ability to multi-task and work in a very fast-paced environment
• Team-oriented with excellent interpersonal skills and ability to develop collaborative working relationships across multiple functional areas in the organization
• Has a strong customer mindset

Location          Miami, FL; San Diego, CA; Austin, TX; remote considered for the right individual

Job Level         Director – no direct reports

Travel              Up to 30% travel as needed