Smart Grid Engineer (The Grid Innovator)

Are you excited about developing intelligent, resilient power grids that integrate renewable energy sources, enhance energy efficiency, and improve grid stability? Do you have a knack for designing advanced grid technologies that optimize energy distribution, support demand response, and enable two-way energy flow? If you’re ready to revolutionize the way we manage and distribute electricity, our client has the perfect opportunity for you. We’re seeking a Smart Grid Engineer (aka The Grid Innovator) to design and implement smart grid solutions that make modern energy systems more reliable, flexible, and sustainable.

As a Smart Grid Engineer at our client, you’ll work with cross-functional teams to develop and deploy technologies that enable real-time monitoring, control, and data analysis for the energy grid. Your work will play a pivotal role in integrating renewable energy, reducing energy waste, and ensuring stable power delivery to communities, even as energy demands fluctuate.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Design and Develop Smart Grid Infrastructure:
• Lead the design and implementation of smart grid components, including advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), automated distribution systems, and grid management software. You’ll ensure these systems support real-time monitoring, fault detection, and load balancing.
2. Integrate Renewable Energy and Distributed Energy Resources (DER):
• Work on projects that integrate renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and energy storage into the grid. You’ll ensure grid stability by optimizing energy flow, managing distributed energy resources, and enabling seamless grid interconnection.
3. Develop and Implement Demand Response Solutions:
• Design demand response systems that respond to peak demand periods and optimize grid efficiency. You’ll work on load control, flexible demand strategies, and time-of-use pricing models to balance supply and demand effectively.
4. Ensure Cybersecurity and Grid Security Compliance:
• Implement cybersecurity protocols to protect smart grid systems from potential threats. You’ll ensure that all technologies meet industry standards, such as NERC CIP, to secure data, control systems, and operational infrastructure.
5. Conduct Grid Data Analysis and Forecasting:
• Analyze real-time and historical grid data to optimize performance, predict energy demands, and identify opportunities for improvement. You’ll work with data scientists to build predictive models that enhance grid reliability and efficiency.
6. Collaborate with Regulatory and Utility Stakeholders:
• Work closely with regulatory bodies, utilities, and energy companies to ensure that smart grid projects align with regulatory guidelines and operational requirements. You’ll contribute to strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and grid modernization initiatives.
7. Stay Updated on Emerging Smart Grid Technologies:
• Keep up with advancements in smart grid technology, including IoT applications, artificial intelligence, and edge computing. You’ll continuously explore new solutions to enhance grid functionality, flexibility, and resilience.

Requirements

Required Skills:

• Smart Grid and Power Systems Expertise: Extensive experience in designing and implementing smart grid infrastructure, including AMI, SCADA systems, and grid management software. You’re skilled at optimizing energy distribution and ensuring grid stability.
• Renewable Integration Knowledge: Strong understanding of integrating renewable energy sources and distributed energy resources into traditional grid systems. You know how to handle challenges related to intermittent power sources and manage two-way energy flow.
• Data Analysis and Forecasting: Proficiency in using data analytics tools to monitor grid performance, forecast demand, and develop optimization strategies. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, Python, and R for energy data analysis is advantageous.
• Cybersecurity and Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of cybersecurity practices for grid systems and familiarity with regulations such as NERC CIP. You understand the importance of securing smart grid infrastructure from potential threats.
• Collaboration and Communication Skills: Excellent collaboration skills, with experience working with regulatory bodies, utility stakeholders, and cross-functional teams. You can effectively communicate complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, Energy Systems, or a related field. Equivalent experience in smart grid engineering or power systems is highly valued.
• Certifications in smart grid technology, power systems, or cybersecurity (e.g., Certified Smart Grid Engineer, CIP) are a plus.

Experience Requirements:

• 3+ years of experience in smart grid engineering, with hands-on experience in developing and managing smart grid projects, including AMI and SCADA systems.
• Experience with renewable integration, grid automation, and distributed energy resource management is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards, such as NERC CIP and IEEE standards for grid operations, is advantageous.

Benefits

• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with low co-pays and premiums.
• Paid Time Off: Competitive vacation, sick leave, and 20 paid holidays per year.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible work schedules and telecommuting options.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certification reimbursement, and career advancement programs.
• Wellness Programs: Access to wellness programs, including gym memberships, health screenings, and mental health resources.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to participate in community service and volunteer activities.
• Recognition Programs: Employee recognition programs to celebrate achievements and milestones.