Lead Data Scientist – Power System Automation (Hybrid)

The Lead Data Scientist provides specialized technical leadership in the development and implementation of advanced automation strategies and data-driven solutions. This role combines expertise in traditional power systems engineering with modern data integration, predictive analytics, and automation technologies to optimize reliability, efficiency, and operational insight across transmission and distribution assets.

• Power System Automation and Process Optimization:

Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to develop automation solutions for critical operational functions, including defect detection, asset predictive maintenance, circuit patrolling, performance monitoring, etc.

• Domain-Specific Solutions:

Leverage power system knowledge to create tailored automation solutions that meet unique business needs and address operational challenges.

• Automation and Application Delivery:

Lead automation initiatives from proof-of-concept to production, including requirements gathering, prototype development, pilot testing, and enterprise deployment. Champion the adoption of scalable digital tools and platforms for operational decision-making.

• Business Intelligence and Reporting:

Develop dashboards and reporting mechanisms to visualize trends, patterns, and insights from automated systems, enhancing situational awareness and operational efficiency.

• IT and Architecture Alignment:

Serve as a key liaison between transmission and substation engineering and IT, evaluating integration strategies, ensuring alignment with cybersecurity protocols, and supporting enterprise architecture reviews. Promote cross-functional collaboration to streamline solution delivery.

• Vendor Partnerships for Specialized Tools:

Collaborate with vendors to adapt specialized tools for application. Business-side involvement ensures these tools effectively generate operational insights and improve the accuracy of decision-making.

• Cross-functional Engagement and Communication:

Interface with internal stakeholders across Transmission, Substation, Distribution, IT, and Operations to define business requirements, assess technical feasibility, and support implementation of innovative engineering solutions.

• Documentation and Compliance:

Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automation and information handling processes, and work with security teams to ensure regulatory compliance.

• Mentorship and Development

Support development of junior engineering staff through technical mentoring, training, and oversight of project deliverables.

Technical Knowledge/Skill/Education/Licenses/Certifications:

Technical Knowledge/Skill: 

• Solid foundation in electrical engineering principles, especially power flow study, power system equipment, power system protection setup and coordination, renewable energy integration, and grid operations
• Familiarity with machine learning and artificial intelligence and their applications in solving practical power system problems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-disciplinary projects and interface with IT teams for architectural review and solution deployment
• Hands-on experience with power system automation tools and analytics.
• Familiarity with PSSE, PowerWorld, PSCAD, Synergy, and other power system modeling tools.
• Experience with data integration, large-scale data processing (SQL, Python, or related), and system interoperability
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders
• Ability to interface effectively and collaborate with clients, peers, project personnel, and all levels of management enterprise-wide to develop solutions and ensure stakeholder buy-in.

Education:     

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related quantitative discipline required
• Master’s degree in Power Systems, Automation, Computer Engineering preferred
• PE license is a plus

Experience:   

• Minimum 8 years of experience in electric utility industry with a focus on power system study, and/or utility engineering analytics
• Experience leading or significantly contributing to engineering automation, predictive maintenance, or digital grid modernization initiatives
• Demonstrated proficiency in scripting skills for power systems relevant projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
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