Microgrid Controls Engineer

OATI; BLOOMINGTON (MN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Health and dental insurance

Job summary

Open Access Technology International, Inc. (OATI) in Minnesota seeks a Microgrid Controls Engineer to design, program, deploy and test microgrid systems. The role emphasizes developing software-based control platforms, configuring hardware, and field deployment across microgrid sites.

The position requires AC power expertise, automation/coding experience, and a valid US driver’s license with local MN residence. Competitive salary and benefits are offered.

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, metering.
• Experience with automation technology and/or computer coding.
• Valid US driver’s license and local to MN.

Responsibilities

• 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 to perform ancillary functions alongside OATI’s software-based platform.
• Supporting customers in troubleshooting SEL relays, meters, recloser controllers, etc.
• Designing control networks and infrastructure for microgrid site communications.
• Field implementation, commissioning and troubleshooting of new microgrid sites.

Skills

AC power analysis

Automation/coding

Self-motivation

Travel willingness

Education

Electrical Engineering Technology

Computer Science

Tools

SEL RTAC programming

Modbus/TCP

DNP3/IP

Networking basics

Linux basics

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.

This position will involve the following tasks/responsibilities:

• 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/Requirements:

• 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

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

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• 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%)

OATI offers full-time employment with competitive salary and benefits, including 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.

OATI is an EEO/AA employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance, or protected Veteran status.

OATI is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the Personnel Services Department at 763.201.2000 x 1262 or [e-mail].