Leader Electric Distribution Planning
Job Summary
The Leader, Electric Distribution Planning will lead a team responsible for shaping the near- and long-term development of the electric distribution system through data-driven planning, advanced system modeling, and cross-functional collaboration. Reporting to the Manager, Distribution Planning and Protection, this role owns the development and maintenance of distribution planning models (including CYME and AMI data integration), performs and oversees planning and performance studies, and translates results into actionable investment and upgrade recommendations. The position partners across the organization to ensure deliverability projects secure required approvals, remain on track, and align with evolving planning criteria, reliability needs, customer growth, and distributed energy resource integration. This leader also supports executive and regulatory reporting and represents the company in regulatory forums by providing clear technical justification and defensible analysis.
Essential Functions
Leads the development and maintenance of engineering models of the distribution system
Uses engineering models as the basis for system planning, operation, and performance studies
Organizes the performance of various studies and reports for executive and/or regulatory purposes (e.g., IURC, FERC, OUCC or other regulatory body)
Leads the integration of new customers, load growth, and distributed energy resources
Investigates distribution system failures, customer complaints or other operating problems and develops corrective action plans
Leads efforts to develop a long-term capital investment plan
Works cross-organizationally to ensure deliverability projects have the required budget approval and are progressing as required
Coordinates work with the team and various internal and external customers relating to the impact, capabilities, and development of the distribution system
Leads cross-functional collaboration with various stakeholders within the company to advance distribution system needs
Attends IURC, OMS, and other regulatory body meetings to ensure NIPSCO’s position is presented
Ensures AMI system integration in CYME models to more accurately propose system upgrades
Spearheads efforts to develop and evolve Distribution Planning Criteria
Responds to operational needs to address system shortcomings in the near term and develop a comprehensive plan, as applicable, for long-term solutions
Serves as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for NIPSCO distribution-related inquiries
Presents to senior leadership on distribution planning-related topics
Maintains proficiency by participating in industry reliability and protection forums or working groups to consult with external entities to ensure proper protection techniques are implemented in accordance with applicable industry standards and for the safe and reliable operation of the grid
Identifies and implements process improvement changes to better facilitate Distribution Planning duties, responsibilities, and/or workflow
Required Qualifications For Position
Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or electrical engineering technology from an ABET-accredited college program.
4+ years of experience in the electric utility industry, preferred electrical distribution planning
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to use appropriate judgment based upon internal/external business situations
Strong communication, presentation, and computing skills, as well as strong quantitative and qualitative analytical skills
Valid driver’s license
Preferred Requirements
Master’s Degree: Advanced degree in engineering, economics, or business, with a preference for candidates holding an electrical engineering degree.
Demonstrated leadership experience with responsibility for managing others, preferably engineers.
Prior experience in an electric utility and/or a senior-level engineering role in Distribution Planning
Mastery of distribution system planning and associated computer modeling programs such as CYME or any other distribution load flow software.
The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.
As a public utility, NiSource is required to provide continuous service to customers at all times. To ensure we fulfill that obligation, employees may be required to work outside their normal work hours and perform tasks outside of their normal responsibilities in support of emergency operations.
Work Authorization
Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
Workplace Connection
Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.
Respect the unique lived experiences within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represents all walks of life and all backgrounds.
Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.
Equal Employment Opportunity
NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.
By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities.
ADA Accommodations
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at [email protected] or 1-888-640-3320
Safety Statement
Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.
E-Verify
NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify program. As part of this process, we provide the following notices to all job applicants: These documents inform you of your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. You can view or download them using the links below:
- E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish
- Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish) If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away
Salary Range*:
$113,500.00 - $170,300.00*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate’s skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.
Posting Start Date:
2026-04-17Posting End Date (if applicable):
2026-05-01
