Power Utility Infrastructure Group Leader

SmithGroup is an award-winning, integrated design firm that blends research, data and technology with innovation and a creative spirit to deliver resilient, inclusive spaces that solve our clients' greatest challenges. Our teams create exceptional design solutions for healthcare, science and technology, workplace, mixed use, higher education, cultural, waterfront, parks and open spaces, and urban environments. We are looking for passionate problem solvers who want to elevate design, push boundaries and move us closer to a carbon-free future. Care to join us?

The San Francisco office of SmithGroup is looking for a Power Utility Infrastructure Group Leader to join our team.

Working with us you will:

1. Establish and nurture relationships with institutional, commercial, and academic stakeholders to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing in the field of sustainable central energy plant integration and design.
2. Design medium voltage power systems, including campus wide upgrades, building upgrades, and underground distribution systems.
3. Lead efforts to connect net zero buildings and microgrids to the power grid, ensuring seamless integration while adhering to relevant regulations and standards.
4. Provide expert guidance and solutions on power systems and utilities, microgrid design, and grid interconnection to internal teams, clients, and partners.
5. Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends related to energy integration and contribute to the development of innovative solutions.
6. Manage projects related to utility connections and microgrid integration, from conception to implementation, ensuring they align with sustainability goals.
7. Oversee and direct electrical engineering design teams in planning, analysis, and delivery of construction and specification documents. Familiarity with power systems, studies, equipment selection, and field observations.
8. Ensure all projects adhere to local, state, and federal regulations, and collaborate with regulatory bodies as needed.

An ideal candidate has:

1. A minimum of 15 years of experience in the power utilities sector, with a focus on grid integration and utility connections.
2. Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Professional license required. Advanced degree preferred.
3. Proven track record of successful engagement with institutional, commercial, and academic communities.
4. In-depth knowledge of electrical systems and equipment selection, solar, BESS, generators, microgrid technology, and other renewable energy sources, and grid management.
5. Strong leadership and people skills, as required to build a team and develop cross discipline/market/region and client relationships.
6. Strong project management skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
7. Excellent communication and presentation skills.
8. Familiarity with sustainability practices and net-zero building principles.

SmithGroup's competitive compensation and benefit package is designed to meet the needs of a diverse staff. The anticipated salary range for this position is $170,000 to $210,000 annually, at the time of posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the anticipated salary range for this position. Additionally, an employee in this position is eligible for a performance-based bonus on an annual basis. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental and vision coverage, flexible spending account options and voluntary insurances. We provide an opportunity to invest in your future through our 401(k) program with employer matching and a continuing education reimbursement. We offer 3 weeks of paid time off within the first year of employment, with the option of purchasing additional time off, 8 paid federal holidays, and parental leave benefits. SmithGroup also promotes a healthy work/life balance for our staff which includes an alternative work schedule that provides employees with an additional 15 days off per year (usually Fridays), as well as hybrid work options that give our team the flexibility to work within our vibrant office culture or remotely, as needed.

If you are not sure that you meet all of the suggested qualifications described above, please don't leave this page. Your talents and attributes could be just what we're looking for - and we strongly encourage you to apply. If you need additional accommodations to complete the application process, please contact