Graduate (Summer Intern) –Data Center Modeler for Power System Study

National Renewable Energy Laboratory

1d

About The Position

The Grid Automation and Control Group within the Power Systems Engineering Center (PSEC) at NLR is seeking an exceptional graduate to support cutting-edge research in modeling and simulation of modern power grids, particularly as the electric grid undergoes rapid transformation driven by the explosive growth of large data centers. The successful candidate will contribute to advanced projects on data center electrical modeling, EMT/phasor simulation, and stability analysis. We are looking for a highly motivated individual with strong expertise in inverter-based resource (IBR) modeling and power-system dynamics who is passionate about addressing emerging reliability challenges in future high-load, high-IBR grids. This role is ideal for candidates who enjoy solving complex problems at the intersection of large loads and modern grid stability.

Requirements

• Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average.
• Undergraduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited institution.
• Post Undergraduate: Earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year.
• Graduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a master’s degree program from an accredited institution.
• Post Graduate: Earned a master’s degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year.
• Graduate + PhD: Completed master’s degree and enrolled as PhD student from an accredited institution.
• Experience with parameter identification for dynamic electrical devices
• Strong understanding of small-signal, transient, and voltage stability
• Hands-on experience developing user-defined dynamic models of IBRs in PSS®E or PSLF
• Experience in modeling and simulation of inverter-based resources (IBRs) and stability analysis of high-IBR-dominated power systems
• Experience with data center modeling
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to process, interpret, and present technical results clearly
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience with new IBR models (e.g., WECC REGFMA1, REGFMB1, vendor-provided models) is a plus
• Experience with software development in Python, C++, or other programming languages

Responsibilities

• Develop phasor-domain/EMT models for hyperscale data centers to support large-scale power system planning and operational studies
• Conduct model validation using real-world event data and commercial simulation tools (e.g., PSSE, PSLF, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, PSCAD)
• Document results through high-quality reports, presentations, and briefings for internal teams, DOE sponsors, and external partners
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, IEEE transactions, conference proceedings, and NREL technical reports
• Solid background in power systems dynamics and modeling including load flow, short-circuit, and contingency analysis
• Proficiency with power system simulation tools in Phasor-domain (e.g.,PSSE, PSLF, Powerworld, etc., PSCAD or EMTP experience a plus)
• Strong understanding of inverter-based resource(IBR) integration challenges, and power system stability concepts

Benefits

• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match; and sick leave (where required by law).
• NLR employees may be eligible for, but are not guaranteed, performance-, merit-, and achievement- based awards that include a monetary component.
• Some positions may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement.
• Internships projected to be less than 20 hours per week are not eligible for medical, dental, or vision benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees