Job Summary – DERMS Project Manager

This position will be responsible for activities related to the Company’s development, implementation, post-implementation evaluation and optimization of the Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS). This Project Manager position will assist with project planning and execution, quality assurance, stakeholder engagement and communications, and budget management. The successful candidate must ensure this complex and high exposure project is completed on time and within budget, while ensuring stakeholder satisfaction by managing expectations and delivering high quality results.

The Southern Company DERMS project requires cross-functional collaboration across Operating Company leadership, operations technology support groups, TO, cybersecurity, system operations, and subject matter experts (SMEs). This position will also work closely with Strategic Initiatives project managers, VaDER, accounting, supply chain, and organizations responsible for distributed energy resource (DER) customer programs. 

The DERMS Project Manager will also provide oversight and supervision of direct reports responsible for DERMS hardware and software implementation, data modeling, technical support, and development of operational workflows.

In addition to DERMS Phase 1 hardware and software implementation, this position will also assist with related parallel workstreams, such as organizational change management (OCM), development of DERMS business processes and workflows, and DER gateway development. The DERMS PM will also assist with detailed design, project planning, and implementation of the next phase(s) of the DERMS project. 

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Responsibilities 

Assist with implementation and optimization of the Company’s DERMS Phase 1 deployment Assist with designing, planning and implementing the next phase(s) of DERMS functionalities Assist with OCM, business process development, and training Assist with development of DER gateway needed for communications and controls of DER Assist with communications to OPCO leadership and internal stakeholders Assist with VaDER Distribution and Bulk Leadership Teams Provide oversight and work direction to direct reports responsible for DERMS hardware, software, data modeling, and operational workflows. Work extensively with key DER stakeholders including system operations, fleet operations, interconnections planning, reliability, R&D, renewables, TO, security, legal, regulatory, and marketing, to ensure successful integration.  Work with key stakeholders across Southern Company to share knowledge and best practices relating to DERMS Gather feedback from internal stakeholders, customers, and regulatory, to continue to optimize the Company’s DERMS.  Exhibit technical creativity, foresight, and a healthy willingness to challenge the status quo Demonstrate advanced technical problem-solving skills and the ability to address and solve complex engineering issues associated with grid reliability and optimization Collaborate and ensure strong partnerships across the SO enterprise. Coordinate with Supply Chain Management on contract requirements and negotiations related to agreements with external suppliers Ability to manage a large capital and O&M budget Assist with other duties as assigned.

 

Preferred Experience, Skills, and Abilities 

5+ years of utility experience is preferred.  A bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Engineering Technology, Computer Science or a related field is preferred, with an advanced degree a plus.  Relevant industry certifications, such as PMP or PM certifications, are a plus.   PE Certification is a plus Strong knowledge and experience with DERs and DERMS is highly preferred.  Strong knowledge and experience with SCADA and ADMS systems is highly preferred.  Proven leadership of technical organizations is preferred. Experience with systems integration and implementation.  Strong knowledge of electrical distribution systems and system operations is required.  Knowledge and experience of Bulk Power Operations and Fleet Operations is a plus Knowledge and experience of Renewables, DER, DR/DSM programs is a plus Knowledge and experience with DER forecasting, economic dispatching and/or grid optimization is a plus Thorough knowledge of Georgia Power and Southern Company construction practices, guidelines, and procedures is preferred.   Able to build positive relationships and work well with diverse groups, tailoring communication methods appropriately for customers, peers, and management.   Proven record of communicating effectively with both internal and external stakeholders.   Strong communication and presentation skills to internal and external audiences.   Proven leadership and commitment to Safety Excellence.   Proven experience in developing and improving an inclusive work environment for all employees.  Demonstrated experience leveraging multiple leadership competencies including but not limited to Business Acumen, Business Execution, Communication, and Organizational Savvy. Ability to lead team efforts, identify critical paths, and resolve conflict while effectively managing projects involving multiple work groups and departments Ability to resolve conflict between individuals and functional areas. Strong communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels, including executives, managers, supervisors, individual contributors, business leaders, and customers. Ability to review and understand financial analysis, manage capital budgets, and ensure accurate budget projections.  Ability to manage multiple project schedules, work plans, and budgets Knowledge of contract administration

 

 Behavioral Attributes:

Demonstrates Our Values (Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, Superior Performance). Models ethical conduct in all situations. Ability to cultivate a collaborative team environment for successful project delivery. Skilled in conflict resolution across individuals and functional areas. Enjoys working with a large, diverse team to accomplish projects as a unified group. Ability to lead through influence Self-motivated, results-oriented, and innovative Detail-oriented with problem-solving skills Works well in a team environment (both in person and virtual) Focus on process improvement, training, and mentoring others Adaptable to change