Power Grid Dynamics Engineer - Lead

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; Livermore (CA); Hybrid; USD 175,000 - 267,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation Assistance

Education Reimbursement Program

Flexible schedules

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore, CA is seeking an experienced Power Grid Dynamics Engineer Lead to head research on electrical power grid infrastructure analysis, focusing on grid resilience within the CIR program. You will collaborate with DOE and national labs, traveling as needed, in a hybrid work setup.

The role involves leading complex projects, mentoring staff, and developing the CIR roadmap, with opportunities to publish and present research to diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
• Master's degree in Engineering or Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with power grid dynamics simulation software (PowerWorld, PSS/E, PSCAD, PowerFactory, GridDyn).
• Strong record of technical achievements in power systems engineering.

Responsibilities

• Lead research in power grid dynamics modeling, transient stability, and EMT simulation.
• Manage complex projects with competing priorities and mentor staff.
• Collaborate with LLNL scientists and engineers to apply research to LLNL programs.
• Develop CIR program roadmap and secure funding input.
• Co-author scientific papers and present to internal and external audiences.

Skills

lead research

project management

team collaboration

communication

Education

Master's degree in Engineering or Computer Science

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

PowerWorld

PSS/E

PSCAD

PowerFactory

GridDyn

Job description

Company Description

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world‑changing impact, advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi‑domain defense, empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

Job Description

We have an opening for an experienced Power Grid Dynamics Engineer Lead. You will lead system research on electrical power grid infrastructure analysis with a focus on grid resilience and participate in business development for the Cyber and Infrastructure Resilience (CIR) program in the Global Security (GS) Principal Associate Directorate. You will collaborate with and travel to DOE headquarters and other institutions such as national labs, utilities, and vendors in support of CIR’s growing research portfolio in electric grid infrastructure for the Department of Energy (DOE)’s Grid Modernization Initiative and Department of Defense (DoD). This position is in the Computational Engineering Division (CED), within the Engineering Directorate. Depending on your assignment, a hybrid schedule may be offered, blending in‑person and virtual presence with the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

You will

• Lead research in the topics of power grid dynamics modeling, transient stability, electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation.
• Lead and support complex research projects with competing priorities and implement advanced research concepts in a multidisciplinary team environment where dedication and deadlines are important to project success.
• Partner with other LLNL scientists and engineers to bring research results to practical use in LLNL Global Security programs.
• Work closely with other CIR program area leads in developing the CIR program research roadmap.
• Develop internal and external collaborations and provide input for securing funding sources to meet program goals and objectives.
• Co‑author refereed scientific papers and reports and deliver presentations for audiences internal and external to LLNL.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.4 level

• Balance multiple projects/tasks and priorities of customers and partners to ensure deadlines are met.
• Lead various highly complex projects, effectively leveraging the skills of team members. Serve as a mentor for other staff and assist in recruiting efforts.
• Serve as a primary technical point of contact with sponsors and partners and participate in development of new program business.

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q‑level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Master's degree in Engineering or Computer Science, or equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Experience with at least one power grid dynamics simulation software, such as PowerWorld, PSS/E, PSCAD, PowerFactory, GridDyn.
• Advanced record of technical achievements in power systems engineering via peer‑reviewed technical publications or successful project leadership.
• Ability to use standard programming languages to support dynamic modeling, analysis and visualization of transmission grids and its components and control systems.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills needed to effectively collaborate in a team environment, present and explain technical information, document work, prepare and present successful proposals and high‑quality research papers, and provide advice to management.
• Ability to travel off‑site, including potentially internationally, for sponsor and customer interaction.

Additional qualifications at the SES.4 level

• Highly advanced experience in one or more of the following areas: power grid dynamics modeling, transient stability, electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation.
• Subject matter expert knowledge and significant experience as a project manager or principal investigator of projects with differing priorities, loosely defined deliverables, and high visibility.
• Expert communication, facilitation, and collaboration skills necessary to present, explain, and advise senior management and/or external sponsors.

Qualifications We Desire

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science.
• Experience working with Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DoD) and other relevant federal and state government agencies.

Salary

$175,530 - $267,060 Annually (SES.3 level)

$175,530 - $222,564 Annually (SES.3 level)

$210,630 - $267,060 Annually (SES.4 level)

Position Information

This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates. This is a hybrid role (#LI‑Hybrid).

Benefits

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement ProgramFlexible schedules (depending on project needs)

Security Clearance

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q‑level clearance. Also, you must have the ability to obtain and maintain Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access. If you are selected, a Federal background investigation will be initiated. All L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q‑level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.

Pre‑Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post‑offer, pre‑employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all applicants with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.