Microgrid Controls Engineer

Open Access Technology International; BLOOMINGTON (MN); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Open Access Technology International, Inc. (OATI) in Minnesota seeks a Microgrid Controls Engineer to design, program, deploy, and test microgrid systems.

You will work with software teams to develop platforms and configure SEL RTACs for ancillary functions, while supporting field deployments and site commissioning. Qualifications include a degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science (or equivalent), plus experience with AC power, automation, and coding.

Qualifications

• Bachelor or Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering (Technology), or Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with AC power, 3-phase AC power, real/reactive/apparent power, and metering.
• Experience with automation technology and/or programming or coding.
• Valid US driver's license.
• Local to Minnesota.

Responsibilities

• Work with OATI software teams to develop, deploy, and test microgrid control platforms.
• Configure and test OATI’s software-based microgrid control platform.
• Program SEL RTACs to perform ancillary functions alongside the control platform.
• Support customers in troubleshooting relays, meters, reclosers, and related equipment.
• Design control networks and infrastructure for microgrid site communications.
• Field implementation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of new microgrid sites.

Skills

AC power

Electrical background

Troubleshooting

Analytical thinking

Self-motivated

Team player

Driver's license

MN resident

Education

Electrical Eng / CS degree

Tools

Modbus/TCP

DNP3/IP

SEL protocol

IEC 61131-3

Linux basics

Automation programming

Job description

Open Access Technology International, Inc. (OATI), an innovative Minnesota-based technology company, is seeking a Microgrid Controls Engineer to work in the design, programming, and deployment/testing of microgrid systems. OATI’s Microgrid group is growing fast, and looking to add additional qualified staff to the team.

Microgrids are an exciting part of the new smart grid. They are electrical systems with the ability to generate their own power, disconnect and reconnect with the grid, and perform services to aid the greater power grid when they are grid-tied. These systems provide benefits such as greener power supply, resilient power through catastrophic events, and financial benefits to the system owners. The starting salary range for this position ranges from $70,000 – $85,000 per year.

• Working with OATI software teams to develop, deploy, and test microgrid control platforms
• Configuring and testing OATI’s software-based microgrid control platform
• Programming SEL RTACs (Real-Time Automation Controllers) to perform ancillary functions, along-side OATI’s software based microgrid control platform
• Supporting customers in troubleshooting SEL relays, meters, recloser controllers, etc.
• Designing control networks and infrastructure to perform communications at microgrid sites
• Field implementation, commissioning and troubleshooting of new microgrid sites

Qualifications

• Bachelor or Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering (Technology), or Computer Science – OR equivalent experience
• Experience and knowledge with AC power, 3-phase AC power, real/reactive/apparent power, metering
• Experience with automation technology and/or any type of computer coding
• Valid US driver’s license
• Local to MN

Knowledge/Skills

• Ability to analyze AC power dynamics and provide corrective input to solve problems
• Ability to investigate, learn, and analyze independently
• Ability to troubleshoot system and controls issues
• Detail, quality, and documentation oriented personality
• Highly motivated and a self-starter
• Ability to travel as required (<10%)

Prior experience with the following areas is a plus, but not required:

• Automation protocols such as Modbus/TCP, DNP3/IP, SEL protocol
• Networking design and fundamentals such as IP addressing, IP subnets, IP protocols
• Experience programming automation controllers (e.g. SEL RTAC or other IEC 61131-3 style)
• Linux – at least basic operational skills
• General scripting/coding in computing systems
• Experience with Relays, Meters, Switchboards, Transformers, and other electrical gear
• Knowledge of electric utility operations

OATI offers Full-time employment which includes competitive salary and benefits, 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, and excellent health and dental insurance programs. OATI prides itself on providing a stable, supportive environment for career development with opportunities for future growth and promotion within the company. Applicants must be self-motivated, energetic, and willing to work in a team-oriented company.