Tampa Electric Hires Data Scientist for Grid Diagnostics

LAKE ALFRED, Fla. – Tampa Electric is searching for a Senior Data Scientist specializing in drone diagnostics to improve its electric grid’s reliability and modernization. The role, based in Lutz, Florida, will use advanced analytics and machine learning to analyze utility data, including smart meter readings, grid operations, geospatial information, and drone imagery.

This position is essential for identifying grid performance risks and recommending proactive measures to prevent equipment failures. The Senior Data Scientist will work with the Drone and Diagnostics Center to ensure grid safety, compliance, reliability, performance, affordability, and resilience. The company aims to develop a unified vision for the center, connecting data engineering, operations, system planning, maintenance, and engineering.

Key responsibilities include leading the development and implementation of analytics to monitor grid performance. This involves applying statistical and machine learning techniques for anomaly detection, time series analysis, failure mode prediction, and geospatial statistical analysis. The role also supports prioritizing maintenance, tracking improvement backlogs, and informing stakeholders about the impact of maintenance and capital improvements. Collaboration with the IT department is crucial for developing data pipelines for large-scale grid data, such as SCADA, AMI, LiDAR, and thermography.

The Senior Data Scientist will also lead the development of analytics for distribution grid models, coordinating with planning and operations teams. Additionally, the role involves creating analytics to support storm operations, including damage estimation, outage tracking, and restoration optimization. The position requires defining and executing the diagnostic center’s data strategy, integrating predictive modeling into reliability programs, and communicating findings to various teams and senior leadership. Mentoring colleagues and encouraging innovation are also core aspects of the role.

Tampa Electric serves about 780,000 customers across West Central Florida and has provided electricity for over 100 years. As a subsidiary of Emera Inc., the company focuses on innovation, solar investments, and sustainable energy solutions while providing customer service. The company emphasizes diversity and inclusion, viewing differences and unique perspectives as strengths.