Microgrid Electrical Engineer

University of St Thomas•St. Paul, MN

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The University of St. Thomas (UST) Center for Microgrid Research is seeking an Electrical Engineer for a project funded by the US Department of Defense. This grant-funded, benefits-eligible term appointment is anticipated to last one year, with potential for renewal up to three years based on performance, department needs, and funding availability. The Engineer will support the Center’s power and research infrastructure expansion on the University’s Saint Paul campus. This role involves working alongside the Microgrid Engineer to manage, oversee, and direct electrical maintenance, repair, inspection, and new work on electrical equipment (13800 AC volts and lower or 1200 DC volts and lower) within the microgrid. The position will also contribute to the day-to-day operations of the Center for Microgrid Research (CMR) microgrid, including system operations, independent research and development, contributing to research proposals, engaging with faculty, staff, and students, preparing manuscripts for publication, and presenting work at conferences. Candidates must be able to access controlled unclassified information and export control data without university support and will need to provide proof of authorization to work in the U.S. and confirmation of their ability to receive CUI/export control data.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering with 0+ years of cumulative experience
Ability to understand technical documentation such as oneline diagrams and electrical drawings
Knowledge of fundamental power engineering concepts
Basic programming experience
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Willingness to learn new technologies and skills
Ability to identify potential issues and react resourcefully with a team to rectify
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and communicate effectively across all levels of the organization
US person status (US citizen, permanent resident (green card), or refugee/asylee) due to DoD funding and export control restrictions.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of AutoCAD or similar
Base level knowledge of communication systems commonly used within the power generation industry for the purpose of configuring and troubleshooting SEL relays/RTAC, network devices, substation equipment, and other OEM devices
Experience with Power Generation Controls and Automation
Experience with programming Digital Multifunction Relays
Experience developing relay logic, electrical protection, and coordination schemes
Willingness to learn and adapt to changing technologies and industry practices
Knowledge of applications, electrical codes, and standards (IEEE, NEC, NFPA, API, etc.)
Analytical minded; Detail-oriented; Well-organized; multi-tasker
Experience with design/maintenance of SCADA system

Responsibilities

Work with Microgrid Engineer to operate and manage the UST microgrid and be knowledgeable of system components including: inverters, generators, relays, breakers, battery systems, solar photovoltaic systems, communication network, and system controllers.
Manage and suggest system improvements and expansion projects.
Order parts and equipment for new electrical projects, and ensure that all components are correctly and safely installed and are in working order.
Reconfigure and prepare the microgrid for testing as needed.
Ensure prints, schedules, and O&M manuals are updated as changes are made to microgrid electrical systems.
Work and communicate well with external partners on projects.
Work with Microgrid Engineer on developing innovative solutions and technical approaches to modeling and design and operation of advanced power and microgrid equipment.
Serve as lead author on project reports, journal articles, conference papers, and presentations.
Leads technical proposals for developing new projects and business.
Effectively leads collaborative teams of staff and students.