Tacoma Power's Transmission and Distribution Line Engineering and Standards group is seeking a Power Engineer II to work in the areas of:  joint use/joint pole attachments, work practices development, and generalized distribution line engineering functions. Joint use and pole attachments will require evaluating and responding to pole attachment requests, work practices development will require conducting research and provide recommendations for the development and revision of work practices for inclusion in the T&D Work Practices Manual that is utilized by field forces, and generalized distribution engineering functions will include pole line relocations and upgrades as well as underground distribution work.

Responsibilities Include:

• Perform detailed load analysis and develop structural loading models of in-service power poles and structures, both distribution and transmission (wood) class poles, by applying engineering methods and judgment. Calculate additional impacts created by proposed new or additional communications installations.
• Apply and interpret safety codes and laws as they pertain to utility pole installations for strength and operational needs.
• Work collaboratively with and direct others to verify and validate customer provided data.
• Perform field reviews to include compatibility of the proposed changes and additions with existing Tacoma Power infrastructure.
• Perform or direct others to gather field measurements.
• Apply knowledge of transmission and distribution line construction practices and materials to assure proper materials are utilized.
• Lead/collaborate with Construction and Maintenance field staff to prepare make-ready estimates for unique installations.
• Correspond with and provide make-ready estimates to applicants; articulate rationale for the required work.
• Create make-ready construction packages for T&D line impacts.
• Coordinate/manage make-ready work in the field as necessary, including field staking, layout of locate areas, and coordination with various construction personnel.
• Provide input and guidance for the management of unallocated communication zone space on jointly used poles.
• Apply engineering expertise to the development of work practices.
• Coordinate and assemble sub groups to address specific work practices and processes.
• Research means and methods employed by others in the industry to accomplish specific construction related tasks.
• Work with engineering technicians to develop create a publish ready work practice.
• Design power line relocations required to support development and road improvements. This may include transmission or overhead and underground distribution.
• Perform economic analysis for project proposals.
• Develop technical specifications for construction and materials.
• Establish and/or administer consulting contracts and direct related efforts.
• Represent Tacoma Power interests in meetings with external customers.

Qualifications:

• Four year degree from an accredited college or university in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering; other degrees considered with relevant experience
• Valid driver's license at the time of appointment with maintenance thereafter.

Desirable Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) Certificate
• Engineer in Training (EIT)/Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) is highly desired
• 3 or more years in an electric utility, industrial, or engineering consulting environment
• Experience with pole line modeling software
• Demonstrated engineering competence and judgment
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Team and Time Management Skills
• Working knowledge of NESC & Applicable WACs

Knowledge & Skills:

• Demonstrated knowledge of transmission and distribution line work
• Experience with pole and line modeling software: O-Calc Pro, PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, Sag10, or similar
• Experience in direct work/interface with field personnel (Line crews)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong decision making skills
• Adaptable to change; business needs, processes, and tools

The City of Tacoma

Tacoma is a mid-sized urban port city that sits along the Puget Sound with a population of nearly 210,000. The third largest city in the state of Washington, it is a diverse, progressive international gateway to the Pacific Rim.

Propelled by significant developments such as the University of Washington Tacoma, the Tacoma Link light rail system, the restored urban waterfront of the Thea Foss Waterway, the expansions of both the MultiCare and Franciscan health systems, and a significant influx of foreign direct investment in its downtown core, Tacoma has evolved considerably since the 1990s. 

Tacoma boasts the state's highest density of art and history museums, and is home to a flourishing creative community of writers, artists, musicians, photographers, filmmakers, chefs, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who each add their unique flair to the city's vibrant commercial landscape. The iconic Tacoma Dome has endured as a high-demand venue for some of the largest names in the entertainment industry.

A magnet for families looking for affordable housing options in the Puget Sound area, Tacoma also draws those who prefer to live in a more urban downtown setting with competitively priced condos and apartments that feature panoramic mountain and water views.

Tacoma's natural beauty and proximity to the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier draws hikers, runners, bicyclists, and maritime enthusiasts to the area. Its lively social scene is infused with energy by thousands of students attending the University of Washington Tacoma, the University of Puget Sound, the Evergreen State College Tacoma campus, and Tacoma Community College, as well as a number of local trade and technical colleges. Its prime location – just 20 minutes south of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, 30 miles north of the state capital in Olympia, and within 10 miles of the U.S. Department of Defense's premier military installation on the West Coast – only adds to Tacoma's desirability.

Selection Process & Supplemental Information:

Interested individuals should apply online and attach a detailed resume and cover letter that highlights job experience, major responsibilities and accomplishments related to this position. Applicants whose backgrounds most closely reflect the current needs of the department may be invited to participate in one or more interviews.  Reference checks will be conducted on final candidates and appointment is subject to passing a background check.  A valid driver's license with maintenance thereafter is a condition of employment.

Communication from the City of Tacoma:

We primarily communicate via e-mail during the application process. E-mails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk e-mail folders.

If you have any additional questions regarding this position, please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 before the closing date of the job announcement.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY, PLEASE VISIT OUR CITY WEBSITE AT WWW.CITYOFTACOMA.ORG/JOBS. PLEASE NOTE THAT APPLICATIONS ARE ACCEPTED ONLINE ONLY AT OUR CITY WEBSITE