Research Engineer II – Power System Modeling & Analytics

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory•Richland, WA

2d•$100,100 - $150,200•Onsite

About The Position

The Energy and Environment Directorate delivers science and technology solutions for the nation’s biggest energy and environmental challenges. Our more than 1,700 staff support the Department of Energy (DOE), delivering on key DOE mission areas including: modernizing our nation’s power grid to maintain a reliable, affordable, secure, and resilient electricity delivery infrastructure; research, development, validation, and effective utilization of renewable energy and efficiency technologies that improve the affordability, reliability, resiliency, and security of the American energy system; and resolving complex issues in nuclear science, energy, and environmental management. The Electricity Infrastructure and Buildings Division, part of the Energy and Environment Directorate, is accelerating the transition to an efficient, resilient, and secure energy system through basic and applied research. We leverage a strong technical foundation in power and energy systems and advanced data analytics to drive innovation, transform markets, and shape energy policy. Within this division, the Power System Modeling Group (PSMG) develops advanced simulation, analysis, and optimization tools to understand and enhance grid performance across all levels, from the bulk energy system to the distribution grid. PNNL seeks a creative and interdisciplinary Power Systems Research Engineer to conduct advanced research in distribution system planning and operations, with a focus on enabling reliable and resilient integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) and grid-edge technologies. This role involves leveraging power systems expertise alongside advanced analytical methods to design, develop, and apply innovative software tools and algorithms for grid analysis and decision-making. The successful candidate will contribute to the conception, development, and deployment of scalable, research-grade software solutions to model, simulate, and optimize power system behavior. Work will include integrating domain knowledge in power systems with applied mathematics, including optimization and machine learning, to address complex challenges in modern energy systems. Staff in this role will work on nationally-significant problems related to energy systems transformation; analyze large and complex datasets; develop and implement advanced algorithms and models; and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and technical reports.

Requirements

BS/BA and 2 years of relevant experience -OR- MS/MA -OR- PhD

Nice To Haves

Strong foundation in power systems engineering, with demonstrated experience in distribution system analysis, planning, or operations.
Experience applying advanced analytical methods such as optimization, machine learning (e.g., deep learning, reinforcement learning), or probabilistic modeling to power systems problems.
Proficiency in one or more programming languages such as Python, C++, Julia, or similar, with experience in object-oriented software development.
Experience developing or contributing to software tools, simulation platforms, or open-source projects related to power systems or energy systems modeling.
Familiarity with industry-standard power system simulation tools (e.g., OpenDSS, GridLAB-D, PSCAD, or similar platforms).
Knowledge of distributed energy resources, inverter-based resources, and grid-edge technologies and their impact on system operations and planning.
Experience working with large-scale datasets and developing data-driven solutions for engineering applications.
Demonstrated ability to publish research in peer-reviewed journals or conferences.
Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly present technical concepts to diverse audiences, including engineers, researchers, and stakeholders.
Experience working in interdisciplinary teams and contributing to collaborative research environments.
Familiarity with power system economics, planning processes, or utility operations is a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop and apply advanced methodologies for power system planning, operations, and control, including optimization, machine learning, and data-driven approaches.
Design, implement, and maintain software tools and simulation frameworks for power system analysis, including integration across multiple modeling environments.
Develop algorithms and models to support DER coordination, grid-edge device management, and distributed system optimization.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams spanning power systems, data science, and software engineering to deliver impactful research outcomes.
Translate research concepts into practical tools and applications for internal and external stakeholders.
Publish high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and technical reports.
Contribute to proposal development and the advancement of new research directions aligned with DOE and PNNL mission areas.
Work effectively in a team environment while demonstrating the ability to independently manage tasks or lead components of research projects.
Mentor junior staff and collaborate with senior researchers to support knowledge transfer and team development.
Ensure compliance with operational, safety, and project management requirements while delivering work on time and within scope.