Research & Development Engineer II

Electric Power Engineers • Austin, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced R&D Engineer II to join our EPE Research and Development team. This role combines expertise in power systems engineering with advanced computational research — including machine learning, adaptive control, and simulation-based modeling — to develop next-generation models that support grid planning, control, and reliability. The primary responsibility is to design, develop, and validate research-driven solutions and modeling frameworks that address emerging challenges in modern power systems, including data center interconnection and large-scale system stability. You will work closely with power system engineers, software developers, and research scientists to translate cutting-edge research into practical, deployable models and tools.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on power systems, controls, or applied machine learning; a Ph.D. is strongly preferred given the research-intensive nature of this role.
• Demonstrated research experience (through publications, thesis work, or applied projects) in power systems stability analysis, control systems, or machine learning applications in energy systems.
• Deep understanding of power systems fundamentals, including transmission and distribution planning, grid dynamics, and stability analysis.
• Strong programming skills in Python, with experience using deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow) and scientific computing libraries.
• Strong presentation and technical writing skills — capable of explaining complex research concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Familiarity with software development and testing practices to ensure robust, reliable research tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, particularly in diagnosing and resolving issues in simulation-based or data-driven power system models.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in power system simulation software such as PSS/E, PSCAD, PSLF, Aspen, or TARA.
• Experience conducting power system studies such as Steady State, Short Circuit, or Dynamic and Transient Stability analysis.
• Experience with model predictive control (MPC), meta-learning, or in-context learning methods applied to dynamical or physical systems.
• Experience developing digital twins or surrogate models for grid-connected assets (e.g., data centers, BESS, renewable generation).
• Familiarity with cloud-based software development and integration of power system models.
• Knowledge of AI-driven or large language model (LLM)-based applications in power systems.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications and/or peer review service for IEEE or related technical venues.
• Experience mentoring junior researchers, interns, or students.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate advanced modeling techniques — including machine learning-based surrogate models, digital twins, and stability certification methods — to support power systems planning and control applications.
• Work with Python and other relevant languages to automate research workflows, build adaptive control tools, advanced generator/load models, and streamline power system simulations and analysis.
• Communicate research findings and technical model capabilities through internal presentations, technical reports, and peer-reviewed publications; support technical demonstrations for internal teams and clients as needed.
• Partner with power system engineers, software developers, and cross-functional research teams to integrate novel modeling approaches into EPE's engineering and software offerings.
• Serve as a technical resource for translating research capabilities into tailored solutions for client engagements and internal product development.
• Test, validate, and troubleshoot research software and models to ensure accuracy, reliability, and performance in real-world power system contexts.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits including medical, dental, and vision with 100% premium coverage for you
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• MyShare Employee Ownership Program
• Work with industry leaders
• 401K, up to a 4% match (100% vested from day 1)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree