Specialist Engineer - Power System Modelling

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™, recognised 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, and generator including wind and solar renewables. We also develop load models or validate via field testing, and conduct 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 successful applicant is expected to lead testing activities for model validation and control tuning for generation plants including wind, solar and energy storage systems, and 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.
• Present study results or reports to clients and act as a subject matter expert.
• Assist in proposal development in response to request for proposal (RFP), cost estimates, work schedules and/or developing work scope to meet clients’ needs.

The successful applicant preferably will have a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering specialised in power system. Applicants who have a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering with direct relative work experience will be considered. Registered as Professional Engineer with Engineers and Geoscientists of BC (EGBC). At least ten (10) years of working experience in Electrical Engineering with expertise in the areas of protection and control, power system analysis, or related post-graduate research. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Preference will be given to candidates with knowledge and demonstrated experiences on the following:

• 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.
• Power plant and generator protection and control theory and practice on relay instruments (SEL, Beckwith, GE Multilin, etc.).
• Strong understanding of generator and renewable modelling, power system and/or substation protections and control systems of synchronous generators, renewables, FACTs, etc.
• Power system simulation software (DSA Tools, PSS/E, PSLF, PSCAD, etc.) is considered an asset.
• Proven Project Management and client-facing customer skills are highly desirable.

Must be eligible and willing to work and travel to the US for site testing. Must hold a valid class 5 BC driver’s license or equivalent.

• 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 Status: Full-Time Regular

Job Affiliation: M&P

Job location: Surrey, B.C. Hybrid and/or remote work model will be considered after close review of probation period.

Job Level: P4 Candidates with lesser experience are welcome to apply and will be considered at an appropriate level after an evaluation of their technical experience.

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. As part of the selection process, applicants may be required to complete a written test/assessment and/or a presentation as part of the interview process.