ABOUT THE POSITION:
Senior Power Electronics Controls Engineer will be driving development of innovative solutions around grid-forming application controls for PCS in utility scale energy storage solutions. This role demands expertise in power systems, power electronics, control theory, and programming to create innovative solutions that contribute to the integration of renewable energy sources and grid stabilization. Key responsibilities are:
Design and develop cutting-edge control algorithms for power electronic systems used in utility-scale energy storage projects, such as inverters and DC/DC converters.
Collaborate closely in a multidisciplinary environment comprising hardware engineers, plant controls developers, product managers and grid integration experts to clarify constraints and implement comprehensive PCS controls solutions to address innovative application requirements in the battery energy storage systems.
Interact with external development partners to ensure smooth collaboration.
Utilize simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PLECS, or equivalent to model, simulate, and analyze power electronics systems under various operating conditions.
Implement and rigorously validate control strategies through prototyping, testing, and iterative optimization to ensure optimal system performance.
Execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing to validate control algorithms, ensuring compatibility with complex grid scenarios.
Optimize control algorithms for efficiency, grid stability, and operational reliability while considering stringent industry standards and regulations.
Stay abreast of the latest advancements in power electronics and control techniques, applying innovative solutions that address challenges unique to utility-scale energy storage.
Contribute to comprehensive documentation, including control specifications, user guides, and application notes, to facilitate seamless integration and future enhancements.
What will our ideal candidate bring to Fluence?
Here at Fluence, we strive to continuously improve, be intellectually curious and be adaptive to our customers and employee’s needs. Collaboration is key, both in our partnerships with our customers, and with each other. Fluence prioritizes the most critical efforts that allow for the greatest impact.
The ideal candidates will have a minimum of an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, Control Systems, or a related field and 2-8 years of work experience in development of controls SW for power conversion systems in the renewable energy industry.
Thorough understanding of power electronics components, topologies, and their roles in utility-scale energy storage systems.
Familiarity with grid-forming operating modes and applications
Proficient in simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, PLECS, or equivalent, to accurately model and predict system behavior.
Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or similar is a plus
Experience working with digital signal processors (DSPs) and microcontrollers employed in power electronics applications.
Solid background in hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing methodologies, ensuring robust control system validation.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot intricate control system challenges.
Effective communication abilities, enabling seamless collaboration within cross-functional teams.
Knowledge of related utility grid interconnection standards and regional grid codes.
Knowledge of or history working with major component OEMs in the solar or battery storage industry is a plus.
Excellent English verbal and writing skills.
Willing and able to travel, domestically and internationally, approximately 10% of the time.
