DERMS & Microgrid Staff/Researcher IV

Job Title:DERMS & Microgrid Staff/Researcher IV

Location:EPRI Knoxville Office, Palo Alto, CA, Remote/Home Based

Job Summary and Description:

EPRI’s DERMS team is seeking to fill a Sr Research Scientist position to lead research on emerging technologies in the smart grid including smart inverters, DER Management Systems and Microgrid Controls. The candidate will develop and apply his/her technical expertise to identify solutions to complex problems on the topic of DER control and optimization.

Strong applicants may possess some of the following qualities and experience:

• Demonstrated technical knowledge of solar PV, inverters, energy storage, conventional generation, their interconnection standards (IEEE 1547, CA Rule 21, HI Rule 14) and communication protocols (SunSpec, DNP3, 2030.5)

• Familiarity with the technical concepts on virtual power plants (VPPs) and DER aggregations (DERA), and DER providing bulk-system/market services

• Experience in testing controls and optimization algorithms for management of solar PV, battery storage, and load

• Ability to effectively communicate highly complex ideas with credibility, confidence, and clarity to diverse audiences through technical publications/papers and making presentations

• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams distributed geographically

• Skill in writing crisp and clear emails that put a course of action on strong technical footing

• Experience drafting research proposals

EPRI is a great place to work for people that want to be a part of a dedicated team of engineers moving the industry forward and solving tomorrow’s challenges. We are looking for energetic and inquisitive engineers with experience in DER management and controls.

Key Responsibilities & Requirements:

• Performs advanced analysis with minimal direction and supervision

• Conducts technical searches and analyzes information in support of the project team

• Conducts independent research and begins to manage small, less complex projects with minimal support from technical leads

• Provides technical advice and counsel to other professionals within EPRI

• Reviews progress and evaluates results

• Makes changes in methods, design or equipment where necessary

• Exercises considerable latitude in determining technical objectives of assignment.

Additional Requirements:

• Develops relationships with program advisors

• Assists technical leads and managers in assessing customer needs, formulating technical approaches, preparing proposals, technical publications/papers, and making presentations

• Presents at external conferences and meetings on technical work

• Starts working across EPRI programs and developing relationships with other program technical teams

• Provides guidance to junior staff

Education & Years of Experience:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or relevant field preferred

• Bachelor’s Degree in a technical field or equivalent experience required

• 3+ years of professional experience

The salary range for …