Distribution Automation Technical Leader II

Job Title:

Distribution Automation Technical Leader II

Location:

Charlotte, NC, Lenox, MA

Job Summary and Description:

EPRI is seeking a Distribution Automation Technical Leader II to support laboratory testing, evaluation, and research activities related to distribution automation technologies. This role will focus on the testing and analysis of equipment such as reclosers, voltage regulators, controllers, monitoring systems, and associated communications technologies used in modern electric distribution systems. The successful candidate will work closely with cross‑functional research teams to evaluate equipment performance, assess asset health, analyze operational data, and contribute to industry‑leading research initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Testing & Evaluation

• Support laboratory testing and performance evaluation of distribution automation equipment, including reclosers, voltage regulators, controllers, and monitoring systems.
• Develop, execute, and document test plans to assess equipment functionality, reliability, and health monitoring capabilities.
• Configure laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and test environments to support research objectives.

Controls, Instrumentation & Communications

• Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain control systems, instrumentation, and communication interfaces.
• Support integration and testing of automation devices and associated control architectures.
• Assist in evaluating communications technologies, protocols, and control logic associated with distribution automation systems.

Data Collection & Analysis

• Collect, process, organize, and analyze laboratory and operational data.
• Evaluate test results and equipment performance to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement.
• Support data‑driven decision‑making through technical analysis and reporting.

Research & Technical Support

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams on utility‑focused projects and initiatives.
• Contribute to technical reports, presentations, member deliverables, and research publications.
• Support the development of innovative solutions that improve distribution system reliability, visibility, and operational efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 3–8 years of relevant experience in power systems, controls, testing, automation, or related engineering disciplines.
• Experience with electrical test equipment and data acquisition systems.
• Strong hands‑on troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with reclosers, voltage regulators, distribution automation controllers, or similar utility equipment.
• Knowledge of communication protocols, networking, control logic, or SCADA‑related technologies.
• Experience supporting manufacturing, equipment design, or material selection activities.
• Strong technical writing, presentation, and documentation skills.
• Experience working for an electric utility, original equipment manufacturer (OEM), research organization, or engineering consulting firm.

Desired Competencies

• Distribution automation systems
• Power system testing and evaluation
• Electrical controls and instrumentation
• Data acquisition and analysis
• Communications protocols and networking
• Technical troubleshooting and diagnostics
• Research and development
• Technical writing and presentation
• Cross‑functional collaboration

Work Environment

• This position combines laboratory testing, engineering analysis, and collaborative research activities. The role involves hands‑on interaction with power system equipment, automation technologies, instrumentation, and communication systems. Occasional travel may be required to support utility engagement, field evaluations, industry meetings, and technical conferences.

The salary range for this position is $130,000 USD to $145,000 USD annually.

This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including without limitation applicant’s education, experience, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. The salary may also be adjusted based on applicant’s geographic location.

This role is eligible to participate in EPRI’s annual incentive program. The amount of incentive varies and is subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.

This role is eligible to participate in EPRI’s standard employee benefit programs, which currently include the following: medical, dental, vision, 401k, STD/LTD and paid family leave, life and accident insurance, paid time off (flexible vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay).

EPRI participates in E-Verify, an online system operated jointly by the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration (SSA). EPRI uses the system to check the work status of new hires by comparing information from the employee’s I‑9 form against SSA and Department of Homeland Security databases.

EPRI is an equal opportunity employer. EEO/AA/M/F/VETS/Disabled