Principal Controls Engineer

Fluence Energy, LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Fluence Energy, LLC is seeking a Principal Controls Software Engineer to design energy storage control software. The role emphasizes hands-on development within a dynamic team environment, focusing on delivering high-quality solutions for utility and grid applications.

Applicants should possess over 10 years of experience in control software development along with expertise in MathWorks Matlab/Simulink. The position is based in Houston, Texas, and requires a commitment to collaborating effectively within diverse teams.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of control software development experience with a Master's in related field.
• Strong knowledge of power system market applications and energy storage systems.
• Experience in CI/CD integration processes and toolchains.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop Fluence’s energy storage control software.
• Develop controls and integrate grid-scale battery systems.
• Troubleshoot field issues and ensure compliance with grid codes.

Skills

MathWorks Matlab/Simulink

Agile Scrum

Git

Closed-loop control algorithms

Control software verification

Linux shell scripting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, Controls Engineering, or related field

Master’s degree in Power Systems or Power Electronics

Tools

JIRA

Confluence

Simulink

Job description

Fluence (Nasdaq: FLNC) is a global market leader delivering intelligent energy storage and optimization software for renewables and storage. Our solutions and operational services help create a more resilient grid and unlock the full potential of renewable portfolios. With gigawatts of successful implementations across nearly 50 markets, we are transforming the way we power our world for a more sustainable future.

Role Overview

We are looking for a Principal Controls Software Engineer with a passion for software design and extensive experience with power engineering, MathWorks Matlab/Simulink, Agile Scrum using Jira, and Git. The Control System is comprised of three main applications: Controls, UI, and the Data Acquisition System. You will report to the Senior Manager Control Application Software Development and, as a hands‑on member of the development team, will deliver a releasable increment of product at the end of each sprint.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the Principal controls software developer designing Fluence’s energy storage system control software for utility and grid applications.
• Develop FOS Controls and integrate grid‑scale battery and power conversion systems from industry‑leading manufacturers.
• Design, develop, build, and document FOS controls logic using MathWorks Matlab/Simulink/Stateflow and C.
• Support requisition engineering.
• Troubleshoot field issues and identify root causes.
• Focus on robustness, security, performance, scalability, and maintainability.
• Meet project timelines and budget.
• Track, manage, document, and report work using JIRA and Confluence.
• Foster a spirit of teamwork that allows for constructive disagreement over ideas, conflict, and expeditious resolution.
• Understand grid codes, compliance, and lead the team technically.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, Controls Engineering, or a related Power Engineering field from an accredited university.
• Master’s degree in Power Systems, Power Electronics, or Energy preferred.
• Expertise in MathWorks Matlab/Simulink for model‑based systems engineering.
• Strong knowledge of power system market applications, power generation, and/or energy storage system controls.
• Experience in closed‑loop control algorithms.
• Expertise using the Agile development framework and Git workflow.
• Enthusiasm for getting things done, taking personal responsibility, adding value within a team setting, and ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Willing and able to travel domestically and internationally up to 5% of the time.

Additional Skills

• 10+ years of control software development experience with a Master’s degree (MS or M.Tech) in Power System, Power Electronics, Control Systems, or Software Engineering from an accredited university.
• Significant related work experience considered in lieu of a master’s degree.
• Expertise in control software verification and validation.
• Expertise in Simulink code generation and optimization.
• Experience in Linux shell scripting.
• Experience in CI/CD integration processes and toolchains.
• Experience with industrial protocols: Modbus TCP, MQTT, DNP3, IEC 61850.
• Knowledge of HIL – Typhoon or OPAL preferred.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Fluence, we believe great teams are built on a collaborative and connected culture. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome qualified applicants of all backgrounds. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

Work Authorization

To join our team, you’ll need to be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout your employment, without the need for employer sponsorship. Fluence does not sponsor work visas for this position.