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

NREL • Golden, CO

10d

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.
• Please Note: Applicants are responsible for uploading official or unofficial school transcripts, as part of the application process. If selected for position, a letter of recommendation will be required as part of the hiring process. Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date. Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
• 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
• 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
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to process, interpret, and present technical results clearly
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

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