Lead Controls Engineer

GE Vernova Inc; Town of Niskayuna (NY); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Lead Controls Engineer, where you'll lead innovative projects in the energy sector. Your expertise will drive the design and execution of cutting-edge protection and control systems for Flexible AC Transmission Systems. Collaborate with a dedicated team to tackle the challenges of the green energy transition, ensuring the reliable connection of renewable resources to the grid. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact the future of energy while enjoying a supportive work environment and competitive benefits.

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Tuition assistance

Adoption assistance

Parental leave

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in related fields with a Bachelor's degree.
• Master's degree with 3+ years of experience is also acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of complex power system studies for custom FACTS solutions.
• Coordinate with project teams to meet specifications and goals.
• Develop controls scope for proposals and support vendor quotations.

Skills

Automation controller programming

Microprocessor control hardware

Troubleshooting skills

Excellent communication

Teamwork

Leadership skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering

Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Excel

Word

MathLab

AutoCAD

Microstation

Job description

Job Description Summary

As a member of this world-class team, the Lead Controls Engineer will lead and execute the protection and control aspects of Flexible AC (Alternating Current) Transmission System (FACTS) projects. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, testing, start-up, and commissioning of the protection and control aspects of fixed series capacitors (FSC), static VAR compensation (SVC), and synchronous condenser solutions within GE’s FACTS portfolio.

Job Description

About us:

Grid Solutions, a GE Renewable Energy business, serves customers globally with over 12,000 employees. We provide power utilities and industries worldwide with equipment, systems, and services to bring power reliably and efficiently from the point of generation to end power consumers. We focus on addressing the challenges of the energy transition by enabling the safe and reliable connection of renewable and distributed energy resources to the grid. For more about GE’s Grid Solutions, visit https://www.gegridsolutions.com.

Why we come to work:

At GE Renewable Energy, our engineers are always up for the challenge—and we’re driven to find the best solution. Our projects are unique and interesting, requiring a solution-focused, positive approach. Surrounded by committed, loyal colleagues, if you bring ingenuity and a desire to make an impact, you’ll be involved in game-changing, diverse projects that contribute to the green energy transition.

Role Summary/Purpose:

The Lead Controls Engineer will lead and execute the protection and control aspects of FACTS projects, including performing studies, translating them into specifications, designs, software, test plans, and overseeing testing and commissioning of the protection and control systems for SVC, FSC, and synchronous condensers within GE’s portfolio.

Essential Responsibilities:

1. Lead development of complex power system studies for custom FACTS solutions.
2. Lead development of custom protection and control solutions, including coding, model-based control algorithms, hardware specifications, logic diagrams, and schematics.
3. Lead development and execution of test plans for real-time data system (RTDS) testing of GE FACTS protection and control systems.
4. Serve as the primary technical contact for customer and project manager issues.
5. Coordinate with sourcing and project teams on technical matters to meet specifications, cost, and schedule goals.
6. Interface with internal and external team members such as principal engineers, control engineers, civil engineers, electrical designers, project managers, and support organizations.
7. Develop controls scope for proposals, including writing/reviewing specifications, estimating design hours and materials, supporting vendor quotations, guiding designers/draftsmen, and preparing technical responses.
8. Lead cost reduction initiatives, including vendor selection, design improvements, process automation, and new product development.
9. Perform root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective actions.
10. Support project quality procedures and initiatives, including ISO9001 standards.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science with at least 5 years of related experience, or
• Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering with at least 3 years of related experience.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Willingness to travel up to 25%, including international locations.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. (no visa sponsorship).

Desired Characteristics:

• Experience in automation controller programming and microprocessor control hardware.
• Knowledge of IEEE, IEC, ANSI, NEC, and NESC standards.
• Experience with HV equipment installation, testing, and commissioning.
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency with Excel, Word, MathLab, AutoCAD, and Microstation.

The salary range for this position is $85,600 - $114,100 - $142,600 USD annually. Compensation may vary based on experience, education, and location. The position is eligible for a performance bonus.

Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, prescription, 24/7 nurse resource, Employee Assistance Program, 401(k) with company match, tuition and adoption assistance, parental leave, disability, life insurance, and paid time off.

GE Vernova offers a great work environment, professional development, and competitive compensation. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to legally protected characteristics.

Employment is contingent upon legal authorization and passing a drug screen. Relocation assistance is provided.