Job Description:
Applications/Systems Engineer, Principal
Description
Position DescriptionTacoma Power's Power Management team is looking for an Applications/Systems Engineer, Principal to join their team! In this role you will provide and maintain the departmental computing and functional systems capability for the Resource Operations & Trading group, which is a mission critical, 24/7 operation. This position is a highly technical, specialized position that requires the problem solving and design skills of an engineer, with the software development and code-writing skills of a programmer.
The Resource Operations & Trading group optimizes Tacoma Power's resource portfolio through efficient, reliable dispatch of generation resources to maximize wholesale energy sales revenue. This is accomplished with responsible water planning and analysis, regional coordination and analysis, wholesale energy trading and the supporting analysis, the associated accounting and reporting, and the systems engineering to support the work specific business activities. The wholesale energy trading activities directly impact Tacoma Power's ability to maintain low and stable rates to our customers.
Responsibilities Include:- Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive systems and software solutions as business needs are identified for data collecting, processing, and reporting; Integrate 3rd party solutions into existing architecture; Write automated unit tests to ensure proper coverage; Review and update operating guides to ensure quality and understanding of Development, test and production environments
- Provide production support for internal and 3 rd party systems: This will include monitoring all production systems for reliability, responding to user production issues, assisting users in accessing data including developing reports, implementing all support policies and guidelines. For 3 rd parties it would include working collectively with the vendor to provide those offerings listed above
- Assess and implement methods for data sharing with other electric utilities, utility consortiums, regulating bodies and other operating divisions within Tacoma Power
- Learn new technologies for development and advancement of current applications, current tools, and current and anticipated needs of the Resource Operations & Trading functions
- Provide direction for the adoption of technology within the Resource Operations & Trading group
Qualifications Minimum Education* Bachelor's degree (may prefer/require Master's degree)
Minimum Experience* 5 years of software development, software architecture and database/ data warehouse experience including 1 year prior at senior, lead and/or supervisory level
*Relevant education and experience may substitute for one another on a year-for-year basis Licensing, Certifications and Other Requirements As Assigned: Washington State Driver's License
Depending on assignment, some positions may require the ability to pass additional background checks and / or obtain additional certifications, with maintenance thereafter
Selection Process & Supplemental InformationApplyAll interested individuals mustapply online and attach a resume and cover letter that includes major responsibilities and accomplishments related to the position.
Appointment is subject to references and passing a background check.
A Commitment to Equity & DiversityAt the City of Tacoma, we're on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We actively seek out candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. Join our team at the City of Tacoma and help us build a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community for all.
If you have a less traditional background, we want to hear about your transferrable skills and experience. We value a variety of perspectives and are excited to see what you bring to the table.
Tacoma Power
Tacoma Power is an almost 100% hydroelectric, municipally-owned public power utility, located in Tacoma. We serve approximately 180,000 customers as one of the three operating divisions of Tacoma Public Utilities, alongside Tacoma Water and Tacoma Rail. As one of the most livable, walkable cities in the country, you'll find that Tacoma is a great fit for all interests with places to bike, run, hike, and explore, the perks of a big city, and the charm of a small town.
Compensation & Benefits Pay Details:
Annual Salary: $131,248.00 - $184,808.00
Employee Benefits | City of Tacoma
Get AssistanceFor assistance with the application process or questions regarding this job announcement please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 by 4:00 p.m. of the closing date of the job announcement.
For technical difficulties using the Neogov system, call the applicant support line at 1-855-524-5627 between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. This will allow us to assist you before the job announcement closes.
Communication with the City of TacomaWe primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from Tacoma.gov and/or governmentjobs.com should be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders.
The City of Tacoma provides excellent medical, dental and vision plans for the whole family; paid holidays and paid leave; participation in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System (alternate plan for Police/Fire); continuing education and advancement opportunities and a growing variety of City-sponsored health and wellness opportunities and incentives.
Medical Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.
Dental Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.
Vision Coverage: For eligible employees and their eligible dependents.
Paid Leave: City employees are entitled to received paid holidays, sick/vacation leave or personal time off (PTO), depending upon union affiliation and appointment type.
Insurance Plans: Employees are covered by a long-term disability plan. Short-term and expanded long-term disability insurance plans are also available to employees. The State Industrial Insurance Act also covers employees.
Deferred Compensation: Income can be set aside on a pretax basis and invested for supplementation of normal retirement income.
Retirement: All employees of the City, except members of the Police and Fire services, Tacoma Rail and certain project employees, are included in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System. Information on the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System can be found at www.cityoftacoma.org or by calling (253) 502-8200.
Other Employment Information
Direct Deposit: Employees are paid on a bi-weekly schedule by direct deposit.
Salary Increases: Based on satisfactory job performance, the City provides for a regular progression of salary increases for most classifications according to the salary schedule.
Union Affiliation: Many job classifications are covered by union security provisions which require union membership, dues, or payment of equivalent service fees.
Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.
Closing Date/Time: 7/23/2026 4:00 PM Pacific
Salary:
$131,248.00 - $184,808.00 Annually