SMUD’s Hydroelectric Power Generation team is seeking a knowledgeable designer/draftsperson familiar with computer aided design to support mechanical, electrical and civil design changes to its hydroelectric facilities in the Crystal Basin area of the Eldorado National Forest. This exciting position will give a designer the opportunity to master CAD design skills while supporting SMUD’s hydroelectric system of 18 dams, 9 hydroelectric powerhouses and interconnecting penstocks, tunnels and support structures with both field and office work. This position reports to a satellite office near Pollock Pines, CA (Fresh Pond) and will give the successful candidate the opportunity to work in both the field and the office.
This posting will be used to create an eligibility list of qualified candidates to fill current and future limited term and full time Generation Designer II vacancies.
Purpose
Under general supervision, performs the design of less complex generation facilities resulting in the release of a Design Change Notice DCN package for construction or other fieldwork. Performs all necessary field investigations, drafting, calculations, standards applications, inspections and other design responsibilities associated with the DCN packages. Coordinates with agencies, office and field personnel during the process.
Nature and Scope
This is the first level in the Generation Designer classification series to perform the full scope of the design process to produce DCNs. This is a learning level in the Generation Designer series and guidance is available from team members and lead positions. Incumbents are required to advance to the Generation Designer III level by learning design maintenance and construction practices and processes necessary to perform higher-level design work. Also, incumbents are required to complete training and educational requirements, prove knowledge and abilities through testing and performance measurement, and exhibit proficiency in skills required at the higher level.
Duties and Responsibilities
Performs design work principally for the less complex generation projects; ensures all necessary approvals are obtained and scheduling is accomplished; serves as a primary contact from job initiation through completion; coordinates and communicates work status with outside agencies; consults with field crews and contractors regarding the application of SMUD requirements.
Makes site visits to gather and/or verify information, convey requirements or coordinate tasks with field workers.
Conducts on-site field inspections to verify proper facility installations by contractors or SMUD field forces to ensure conformity with applicable codes and design requirements.
Reviews maps, drawings, plans and other data sources to extract information necessary for design; develops construction drawings, including equipment/facilities drawings, wiring diagrams and job instructions/notes.
Applies SMUD rules, regulations, maintenance or construction standards and other guidelines to develop design alternatives and define the work scope; incorporates safety code requirements and SMUD safety requirements in all designs; applies local and government agency rules and regulations.
Interprets DCN packages and associated documents; develops and revises engineering drawings, using CAD and manual drafting skills as required.
Evaluates and analyzes data and prepares reports; makes routine engineering calculations associated with piezometer and inclinometer field readings.
Assists Generation Designer IIIs and IVs with the physical tracing of wiring in control panels, switchboards and distribution panels.
Assists in training and coaching Generation Designer I incumbents.
Knowledge Of
Basic electrical generation facilities design, operating principles, maintenance and construction standards, terminology and symbols; basic electrical generations systems calculations of electrical, mechanical and civil quantities and clearances; materials, apparatus, equipment and tools used in the electrical generation industry; materials, methods, and equipment used in mechanical, freehand and AutoCAD drawing and lettering; the Work Management System, GIS and other databases and generation facilities tools utilized within SMUD; and powerhouse locations for frequent field trips.
Skills To
Efficiently design DCN packages for the less complex generation facilities modifications or additions; accurately and efficiently develop/revise work sketches, facilities maps and other engineering drawings both manually and with AutoCAD; operate digital equipment and accessories; negotiate, coordinate and deal effectively with contractors, engineers, utilities, public agencies and other SMUD employees; interpret maps, construction plans, DCN packages and associated documents; and, safely perform technical work in a field environment.
Desirable Education
Any combination of education and experience that has provided the necessary knowledge and skills will be considered qualifying.
Example of qualifying experience:
High school coursework in algebra, geometry and trigonometry with vocational training and
(2) years of experience as a SMUD designer I or three (3) years of as a designer in a relevant field (utility, engineering design firm, construction company, etc.)
Desirable Qualifications
Experience with electrical schematics, electrical panel layout, and instrumentation and controls
An electrical, mechanical or mechatronics engineering degree
Experience with mechanical fabrication and assembly drawings (machine design)
Required Licenses/Certificates
Must possess and maintain a valid California Drivers License and a satisfactory driving record (not more than two moving violations in the last two years.)
