Integrated Grid Planning and Dynamics: Modeler/Analyst

National Laboratory of the Rockies•Golden, CO

6d•$83,600 - $180,700•Onsite

About The Position

The Transmission and Distribution Interactions (T&D) group in the Grid Planning and Analysis Center (GPAC) at NLR is looking for exceptional candidates to join our team to help connect bulk/transmission power flow, dynamic, and related contingency modeling within integrated grid planning frameworks and studies. Specifically, this role will work closely with NRL research engineers to build dynamic and steady-state G&T&D models, conduct power flow and dynamics studies for both existing and future grids, help develop co-simulation frameworks, and perform natural hazard and multi-hazard modeling. These will be used in collaboration with a range of partners to understand and propose solutions to 1) managing a high percentage of IBRs and DER, and 2) prioritizing investments to improve the reliability and resilience of the grid. The ideal candidate would bring solid knowledge on bulk power system dynamics, co-simulation, along with experience modeling of distribution systems, DER & IBR, and natural/man-made hazards. We are researchers, engineers, software developers, modelers, physicists, product managers, thought leaders, system thinkers, and life-long learners. We strive to push the boundaries of innovation, integrated analysis, and computational tool development. You would join us in developing innovative modeling approaches, collaboratively applying them with a wide-range of research and industry partners to conduct high-impact analysis and working to articulate current trends and chart future needs in integrated grid systems. A sample of on-going research include reliability studies examining interactions between DER and bulk grid dynamics; interactions between generation dispatch during black-sky days; and impacts of natural and human-caused threats on the grid. Come join a team whose mission is to innovate, inform, and create value for energy systems transitions, including renewable energy, distribution systems, transmission systems, energy storage, markets, and economics and much more.

Requirements

Relevant PhD and 4 or more years of experience OR relevant Master's Degree and 7 or more years of experience OR relevant Bachelor's Degree and 9 or more years of experience (for Researcher IV)
Relevant PhD OR relevant Master's Degree and 3 or more years of experience OR relevant Bachelor's Degree and 5 or more years of experience (for Researcher III)
Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q Security Clearance.
Experience with commercial power system power flow software such as Powerworld, PSS/E, or similar
Applies extensive engineering technical expertise, and has full knowledge of other related disciplines
Considered a technical resource.
Demonstrates leadership in several areas of team, task or project lead responsibilities
Demonstrated experience in management of projects
Excellent writing, interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to work independently and in team settings
Demonstrates broad understanding and wide application of engineering technical procedures, principles, theories and concepts in the field
General knowledge of other related disciplines
Demonstrates leadership in one or more areas of team, task or project lead responsibilities
Very good writing, interpersonal and communication skills

Nice To Haves

Proven expertise with developing, modeling, troubleshooting, and in-depth analysis with power system dynamics (phasor, RMS) and large-scale EMT simulations using widely-used commercial software tools including Powerworld, EMTP, PSS/E, PSCAD, and DIgSILENT
Experience with production cost modeling tools, such as PLEXOS-LT or Sienna, and their interactions with power flow models
Experience automating, conducting, and visualizing engineering analyses for large-scale grids, including N-1, N-1-1, and N-k contingencies; frequency response; and multiple stability criteria for both strong and weak grids
Experience developing and validating dynamic and transient models for both grid-forming and grid-following IBRs with a variety of energy sources, including solar, wind, and storage
Experience troubleshooting and adapting system-scale models for convergence, particularly for future scenarios with extensive changes to the generator fleet and wide-spread transmission expansion
Experience with software development for scripting and automation of such analyses, particularly in Python, Julia, or Rust
Experience with multi-model and co-simulation frameworks such as HELICS
Experience with resilience analysis to both natural hazards and man-made threats.
Experience capturing DER and IBR within these modeling paradigms
Familiarity with DER and IBR interconnection standards, such as IEEE 2800 or IEEE 1547
Familiarity with distribution modeling using widely-used tools such as OpenDSS, CYME, and Synergi

Responsibilities

Build, troubleshoot, and validate large-scale bulk/transmission power system models
Conduct AC power flow, dynamics, and contingency simulations across scales ranging from smaller island and regional-scale systems up to national and international interconnections
Design, develop and maintain co-simulation frameworks
Apply best-practice code development techniques
Perform analysis demonstrating the importance of technical capabilities.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of developers, engineers, and analysts
Present work at conferences, symposia, and project meetings.
Contribute to journal articles, conference papers, and technical reports
Work with other staff to develop proposals and partnerships for funding opportunities