Utilties/Power System Controls Engineer

• Permanent
• $85k - 140k per year

Overview:

We are partnered with a highly renowned global system integrator which leads the market in providing automation and information solutions, specializing in pioneering advanced control systems, process automation, and data-driven technologies to multiple industries, including manufacturing, energy, utilities, and life sciences.

In this role, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Utility/Power System Controls Engineer with expertise in PLC/DCS-based automation systems and experience in microgrid design and operations.

You will play a critical role in developing, implementing, testing, and maintaining advanced control solutions for utility-scale Power System, Automation, and Microgrids utilizing the latest automation technologies from industry leading OEMs.

Key Responsibilties:

System Design and Development:

• Design, program, and implement control systems using PLC or DCS platforms for power generation, distribution, and microgrid operations.
• Develop control algorithms for microgrid systems, ensuring seamless integration of generation, storage, and loads.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system requirements, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Automation, Optimization, and Equipment integration:

• Configure PLC/DCS logic for automation tasks, including start-up/shutdown sequences, load balancing, and grid interconnections.
• Implement Energy Management Systems (EMS) to manage supply-demand dynamics and maximize renewable energy utilization.
• Program controllers to handle switching between grid-connected and islanded modes of operation.
• Integrate various hardware components (e.g., sensors, actuators, relays, and I/O devices) into PLC or DCS platforms.
• Configure Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for real-time monitoring.

Testing, Commissioning, and Maintenance:

• Conduct factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and commissioning of control systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot hardware and software issues in PLC/DCS-based systems during commissioning or maintenance phases.
• Perform system upgrades and implement cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure.

System Maintenance, Monitoring, and Analytics:

• Diagnose and fix hardware and software issues in PLC/DCS systems.
• Develop and configure SCADA/HMI systems for real-time monitoring and data visualization of utility and microgrid assets through SCADA, data historians, and DCS dashboards.
• Leverage data analytics to enhance system performance, energy efficiency, and predictive maintenance.

Skill requirements:

• 3+ years of experience with PLC/DCS systems in the utility or power sector.
• Hands-on experience with microgrid design, integration, and operation is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens S7, Schneider Electric) or DCS platforms (e.g., Emerson DeltaV, Honeywell Experion, ABB 800xA).
• Strong knowledge of renewable energy integration, energy storage systems, and power system controls.
• Expertise in communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, IEC 61850, DNP3) and SCADA systems (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition).
• Familiarity with EMS, HMI configuration, and cybersecurity best practices.

Preferred skills/knowledge:

• Experience with microgrid-specific tools such as battery management systems (BMS) and inverter controls.
• Power generation (nuclear, coal, hydro, wind, solar, etc.).
• Electrical grid automation (substation control, load shedding, demand response).
• Water treatment plants or district heating systems tied to utilities.
• Industrial facilities requiring cogeneration or utility-scale systems.

This role is ideal for professionals passionate about leveraging automation and control technologies to advance renewable energy adoption and modernize utility systems. If you’re ready to contribute to sustainable energy solutions and thrive in a challenging yet rewarding environment, we encourage you to apply!