Posting Title
Electrical Engineer for Hybrid Energy Systems
Location
CO - Boulder
Position Type
Regular
Hours Per Week
40
Job Description
NREL is seeking a highly skilled Electrical Engineer with a specific focus on microgrid design, analysis, and operation. This role is pivotal in advancing the development and implementation of cutting-edge, community-driven solutions in renewable energy integration and hybrid energy systems, with a strong emphasis on microgrids and/or industrial decarbonization end use applications.
In this position, the applicant will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing microgrid systems within the context of hybrid energy projects. Their expertise in microgrid design will be crucial in creating resilient and sustainable energy systems that incorporate renewable sources, energy storage, and grid infrastructure. The applicant will also contribute to the research and development of novel power systems solutions tailored for hybrid energy systems. Their deep understanding of power systems will be leveraged to design innovative solutions that enhance system performance and efficiency to accelerate the development and deployment of these hybrid systems. Proficiency in power systems software tools such as PSS/E and PSCAD will enable modeling, simulation, and analysis of microgrids and power electronics components, driving innovation and achieving project goals.
Basic Qualifications
Relevant PhD. Or, relevant Master's Degree and 3 or more years of experience. Or, relevant Bachelor's Degree and 5 or more years of experience. Demonstrates broad understanding and wide application of engineering technical procedures, principles, theories, and concepts in the field. General knowledge of other related disciplines. Demonstrates leadership in one or more areas of team, task, or project lead responsibilities. Demonstrated experience in management of projects. Very good writing, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Minimum Qualifications
Master's or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
Additional Required Qualifications
- Microgrid Design and Optimization: Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of microgrid systems within hybrid energy projects, ensuring the seamless integration of renewable energy sources, energy storage, and grid infrastructure.
- Microgrid Operation: Develop and implement control strategies, real-time monitoring systems, and DER integration solutions to ensure the efficient and reliable operation of microgrid systems.
- Simulation and Modeling: Utilize specialized power systems software tools such as PSS/E, PSCAD, and others to model, simulate, and analyze microgrids, power electronics components, and overall electrical systems.
- Collaboration: Work closely with multidisciplinary teams within NREL to conceptualize, develop, and execute research projects related to hybrid energy systems and microgrids, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
- Documentation and Reporting: Document research findings, prepare technical reports, and present results to both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of project outcomes and insights.
- Safety Compliance: Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations throughout all stages of project development and operation, prioritizing safety as a fundamental aspect of the work.
- Technology Evaluation: Continuously evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies in microgrid design, power electronics, and renewable energy integration to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.
- Professional Development: Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in renewable energy and electrical engineering fields, enhancing personal expertise and contributing to the overall knowledge base of the team.
- Project Leadership: Take a leadership role in specific projects or initiatives related to microgrid design, power electronics, or hybrid energy systems, guiding project teams towards successful outcomes.
Preferred Qualifications
- Strong background in systems engineering for power systems, particularly in designing and optimizing complex systems.
- Previous experience in the electric utility industry, with knowledge of utility-scale renewable energy projects and grid integration.
- Proven experience in electrical system design, particularly in the context of renewable energy integration and hybrid energy systems.
- Strong knowledge of power electronics, control systems, and energy storage technologies.
- Proficiency in simulation tools such as PSCAD, MATLAB/Simulink, or equivalent.
- Familiarity with grid integration and distributed energy resources (DERs) is a plus.
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work in a collaborative and dynamic research environment.