Engineer III

Job Description

The Distribution Capacity Planner in this position will have an emphasis on improving the capacity and operating performance of the distribution system in line with the integration of smart grid devices and systems. Provides advanced professional engineering service and support in the planning, construction, operation, maintenance, and analysis of PSE facilities and assets, contributing sound technical expertise to ensure safe, reliable, and cost-effective outcomes. 

Independently schedules and coordinates major segments of complex projects, proactively managing scope, cost, and schedule to meet project objectives. Leads the review of engineering designs and documentation, ensuring rigorous compliance with PSE standards, applicable codes, and regulatory requirements. Applies strong technical judgment to interpret, apply, and adapt engineering guidelines, principles, and practices to assignments of substantial complexity—confidently navigating multiple interrelated elements and addressing considerations not previously encountered. Identifies potential risks and issues early, recommending effective solutions with minimal need for oversight.

Actively supports the continued development of PSE’s engineering workforce by mentoring less experienced engineers, sharing technical knowledge, and promoting best practices across project teams. 

Demonstrates reliability and technical readiness to support emergency response operations when needed.

Upholds the safety compliance standards inherent in PSE’s operating and/or field procedures related to work responsibilities. Promotes and supports a culture of total safety.

Demonstrates commitment to conduct business honestly, ethically and consistent with our core values and Code of Conduct.  Ensures duties are performed in accordance with all regulatory compliance obligations.

This job is considered “safety sensitive” as defined in RCW 49.44.240 and is subject to pre-employment drug screening that includes screening for the presence of marijuana and marijuana metabolites.

Job Responsibilities

• Interprets and/or modifies available guidelines for application to existing problems or processes.
• Prepares complex designs, standards, studies and analyses.
• Provides a detailed design review of internal or external technical documents.
• Prepares cost estimates and evaluations for project alternatives with minimal supervision.
• Plans and develops project budgets with appropriate documentation.
• Ensures compliance with codes, standards, and design, operation, and maintenance requirements.
• Identifies potential areas of weakness with assigned work, and initiate corrective action.
• Documents and shares work with others to strengthen the depth and breadth of skills within the department’s engineering workforce.
• Ensures that problem solutions are tailored to PSE’s business environment.
• Supports emergency response work as requested including immediate and extended restoration efforts driven by weather and other system failures.
• May lead or coordinate the work of junior engineers, engineering assistants, field technicians, and others who assist on specific projects. (This includes contractor/consultants.)
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree or PE license in electrical, mechanical, civil or other appropriate engineering field. A PE license may qualify in lieu of a degree.
• Substantial experience in planning, design, specification preparation, technical field work, project cost estimating and scheduling (typically achieved after five (5) or more years practice as a degreed engineer). Years of acquired experience is provided as a guide and alone does not constitute readiness for job level as individual’s skill acquisition rates can vary significantly.
• Demonstrated organization, documentation, prioritization, and project management skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working in the utility industry.
• Familiar with codes and equipment ut