Distribution System Operations Real-Time Reliability Engineer

Job Posting End Date 09-14-2026 Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

The Distribution System Operations (DSO) Real-Time Reliability Engineer is a key member of a newly formed team redefining how AEP operates the modern, DER-enabled grid. This role sits at the intersection of traditional distribution operations, emerging distributed energy technologies, and evolving market structures. Responsible for real-time evaluation and coordination of DER impacts, this position will utilize their engineering expertise to analyze, document, and consult on the impacts of distributed energy resources (DER) and other grid modernization technology as it relates to the real-time operations of the distribution grid. This includes operational coordination of DER, Distribution Automation Circuit Reconfiguration (DACR), Volt VAR Optimization (VVO), SCADA, Sensors, etc. As this team and function mature, the DSO Real-Time Reliability Engineer will play a central role in advancing operational planning functions, enabling innovative grid solutions, leveraging DERMS capabilities, and helping transition AEP toward a more dynamic, integrated, and resilient energy system Job Description What you’ll do: Through collaboration with Distribution Dispatch Centers, the System Control Center (SCC), Planning, Engineering, and other stakeholders, this role develops the operational frameworks, studies, and engineering analyses necessary to support the reliable integration and operation of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and Distributed Energy Resource Aggregations (DERAs) across the AEP distribution system. The successful candidate will evaluate emerging grid conditions, develop operational recommendations, identify system constraints, and support the implementation of DER-enabled solutions that enhance reliability, resilience, and grid flexibility. Candidates should possess strong analytical and communication skills, thrive in collaborative and fast-paced environments, and be capable of translating complex technical findings into actionable operational guidance. Occasional travel for training and cross-functional engagement may be required. Perform engineering studies and operational analyses to evaluate the impacts of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and Distributed Energy Resource Aggregations (DERA) on distribution system reliability, including voltage performance, thermal loading, protection coordination, and backfeed conditions. Develop and maintain operational planning models, forecasts, and contingency analyses to support reliable DER integration and operational decision-making. Identify existing and emerging DER-related system constraints and develop recommendations to mitigate operational and reliability risks. Provide engineering support and operational recommendations to Distribution Dispatch Centers (DDC), the System Control Center (SCC), and other stakeholders regarding DER-related system conditions and planned work activities. Develop operating criteria, procedures, and decision-support tools that support the safe and reliable operation of a DER-enabled electric grid. Support the development and implementation of advanced operational capabilities, including DERMS, ADMS, FLISR, Volt/VAR Optimization, and intentional islanding strategies. Analyze distribution system impacts associated with DER and DERA participation under FERC Order 2222 and evolving wholesale market participation models. Collaborate with Operations, Planning, Engineering, Information Technology, and external stakeholders to enhance DER integration and improve operational readiness across multiple RTO/ISO regions. Maintain technical documentation, study results, operating guidelines, and engineering recommendations related to DER integration, operational planning, and grid reliability. Participate in industry forums (IEEE, EPRI, etc.) to interact with other industry leaders to be current on the latest DER and grid