Power System Modelling Engineer - Field Testing

Powertech's Engineering Service Business Unit focuses on power system software development, power system and substation consulting studies and compliance testing services for electric utilities and other clients in the power industry. We are the vendor of the cutting‑edge power system analysis software package, DSATools™, recognized globally as a leading‑edge software platform for dynamic security assessment of complex power systems for both off‑line (system planning) and on‑line applications (near‑real‑time operation).

Our team provides a full spectrum of study services from fast electromagnetic transient switching studies, power system planning and operation studies (including transient, small‑signal, voltage, and frequency stabilities), post‑mortem investigation of system disturbances and events, generation and load interconnection studies, generator including wind and solar renewables, and load model development or validation via field testing, and to NERC compliance studies (e.g., TPL, PRC, MOD, CIP, etc.). In addition, our Real‑Time Digital Simulator (RTDS)‑equipped protection and control lab provides unlimited potential for testing and evaluation of new control, protection, and communication devices and schemes.

The Field Testing Engineer is expected to perform model validation and control tuning for generation plants including wind, solar and energy storage systems, as well as perform model validation and other simulation studies per NERC and other applicable reliability standards.

• Review power plant technical documents to prepare unit specific test plans per applicable requirements.
• Travel to industrial sites in multiple countries and carry out onsite generator model validation testing.
• Perform simulation study and prepare detailed engineering reports.
• Perform peer review on technical reports.
• Provide technical proposals, cost estimates, and work schedules.
• Remote working is acceptable if the quality of work meets requirements.

• The successful applicant preferably will have a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering specialized in power system. Applicants who have bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering with direct relative work experience will be considered.
• Registered or eligible to immediately register as a Professional Engineer with the Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (EGBC) or other jurisdictions.
• At least 3 years of working experience in power system analysis, protection and control, or related post‑graduate research.
• Knowledge and demonstrated experiences in power plant (thermal, solar, wind, BESS, etc.) site commissioning and testing including regular field work following procedures, data collection using digital DAQ systems, control equipment function and communication troubleshooting, safety training and awareness, etc.
• Knowledge and demonstrated experiences in power plant and generator protection and control theory and practice on relay instruments (SEL, Beckwith, GE Multilin, etc.).
• Good understanding of generator and renewable modeling, power system and/or substation protections, and control systems of synchronous generators, renewables, FACTs, etc.
• Experience on using power system simulation software (DSA Tools, PSS/E, PSLF, PSCAD, etc.) considered as an asset.
• Progressive roles demonstrating technical, project management and client facing work experiences.
• Must hold a valid class 5 BC driver’s license or equivalent.
• Willing and eligible to work in the United States (for site testing).

• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Uncompromising dedication to safety and quality.
• Ability to work independently and with a team and role model high standards of professionalism.
• Experience working in multi‑disciplinary project teams.

Job location: Surrey, B.C. Hybrid and/or remote work model will be considered after close review of probation period. Please be advised that this role has been assessed as safety sensitive and pre‑qualification alcohol and drug testing will be required as a pre‑condition to employment.