Senior Power Systems Modeling Engineer

Senior Power Systems Modeling Engineer, Grid Integration

WORK AUTHORIZATION

• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for current or future visa sponsorship.
• We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

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POSITION OVERVIEW
The Senior Power Systems Modeling Engineer provides power system modeling and grid integration analysis for SMA's utility-scale photovoltaic and battery energy storage solutions. The role supports the U.S. Application Engineering team by producing the analytical inputs required for dynamic and steady-state studies, electromagnetic transient analysis, and interconnection and regulatory compliance evaluations using industry-standard simulation models.

Success in this position requires a solid foundation in power system engineering, working proficiency with simulation tools including PSS/E and PSCAD/EMTDC, and a practical understanding of inverter-based resource behavior and control. The ideal candidate brings analytical rigor, a collaborative approach, and the ability to work effectively across U.S. and global teams.

PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform modeling and analysis of utility-scale solar, storage, and hybrid power plants in support of the U.S. Application Engineering team across multiple SMA America projects and applications.
• Interpret ISO and TSO interconnection requirements, for example ERCOT, MISO, CAISO, ISO-NE, NYISO, PJM, and SPP, and recommend appropriate SMA control configurations and parameter tuning, delivering models aligned with project-specific scopes.
• Maintain and manage versions of SMA's model portfolio across PSS/E, PSCAD/EMTDC, and other simulation platforms used in the North American market.
• Provide technical support to the U.S. Application Engineering team by troubleshooting model functionality and executing simulation studies to validate dynamic model behavior against design specifications.
• Analyze inverter control modes and plant-level control strategies, including their interactions in solar, storage, and hybrid system configurations, and support model validation testing, benchmarking activities, and interconnection study workflows.
• Prepare modeling study reports, technical documentation, and project deliverables that clearly communicate simulation findings and recommendations for IBR integration projects.
• Evaluate the impact of inverter-based resources on power system stability and recommend mitigation approaches using SMA's technology portfolio.
• Coordinate with SMA's Global Competence Center on modeling-related tasks, supporting alignment between the U.S. Application Engineering team and global counterparts.
• Collaborate with SMA's modeling team in Germany by providing feedback on model performance, identifying potential issues, recommending new functionality, and communicating emerging modeling requirements and trends in North America.
• Support SMA's participation in industry working groups and technical discussions related to modeling standards and grid-code requirements in North America, including NERC, ESIG, ISOs, TSOs, and utilities.
• Develop and deliver internal training materials on modeling tools, methodologies, and SMA model capabilities.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, product management, engineering, and service teams to ensure alignment on technical requirements and modeling-related initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational and departmental objectives.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in the utility-scale renewable energy sector involving photovoltaic or energy storage systems.
• At least 3 years of hands-on experience developing and analyzing dynamic and steady-state models of inverter-based resources using PSS/E and PSCAD/EMTDC.
• Working knowledge of utility-scale PV and BESS plant design, including single-line diagrams, control strategies, and integration considerations.
• Working knowledge of power electronic converters and plant-level integration.
• Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally and work effectively in a fast-paced environment managing multiple concurrent projects.
• Willingness to travel internationally on an occasional basis, including visits to SMA headquarters in Kassel, Germany.
• Proficiency in English, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Experience with TSAT modeling tools, particularly in ERCOT and MISO jurisdictions.
• Experience performing power system analyses including SMIB generation modeling, power flow, transient stability, electromagnetic transient, and short-circuit analyses.
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop platforms such as RTDS/GTSOC, OPAL-RT, or Typhoon HIL.
• Familiarity with Python, ASPEN OneLiner, MATLAB, or similar analytical tools.
• Familiarity with medium-voltage transformers, MV switchgear, and protection system design.
• Familiarity with grid-forming inverter technology and advanced battery storage control solutions.
• Familiarity with NERC reliability standards, IEEE technical standards, and grid-code requirements across major North American system operators.

WE OFFER

• Base salary range of $130,000 to $157,000 annually, dependent on experience, plus bonus eligibility.
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage, including $0 premium options.
• Remote-first work schedule. Continental U.S. candidates only.
• Relocation assistance available on a case by case basis.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Inclusive, collaborative, and innovative work environment with global cross-functional exposure.