Duke Energy Corporation

Lead Engineer - Advanced Automation & Integration Standards

Duke Energy Corporation$100K — $130K *
Energy & Utilities
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited program
  • Minimum of 8 years of relevant engineering experience
  • Professional Engineer (PE) certification
  • Experience with DER automation, protection, microgrids, or energy storage systems
  • Familiarity with IEEE 1547, IEEE 2030, and IEC 61850 standards

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a Lead Subject Matter Expert for advanced automation and control in DER systems
  • Develop and manage standards for DERMS integration and system protection
  • Translate project requirements into enterprise-ready automation standards
  • Direct advanced integration and validation activities with SCADA/ADMS
  • Lead operational oversight of Control Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL) testing environments
  • Mentor engineers in automation and grid integration disciplines
  • Act as technical liaison for internal and external stakeholders including IEEE and EPRI

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model after onboarding, requiring reasonable commute to Duke Energy facility
  • Relocation assistance provided as applicable
  • Opportunities for professional mentorship and development in advanced automation and DER integration
  • Engagement with cutting-edge technologies and industry standards
  • Collaboration with leading experts in the field concerning emerging technologies
Full Job Description
Important Application Submission Information
In order to ensure your application is successfully received before the job posting expires, please submit your application by 11:59 PM on Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Position Summary

The Lead Engineer - Advanced Automation & DER Protection / Integration Standards serves as an enterprise technical authority supporting the integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) into Duke Energy's distribution system. This role provides leadership across automation, system protection, and control, supporting DERMS-enabled grid operations, microgrids, defined control areas, energy storage systems, and other non-wire alternatives.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a Lead Subject Matter Expert (SME) for advanced automation and/or system protection and control for DER-enabled distribution systems.
  • Lead development and governance of standards related to DERMS integration, automation, and system protection.
  • Translate project-based requirements into repeatable, enterprise-ready automation and protection standards.
  • Lead the development, governance, and lifecycle management of standards supporting:
  • DERMS visibility, monitoring, and remote control interfaces
  • Edge control RTUs for planned islanding and microgrid operation
  • High-speed switching and advanced reliability automation systems
  • Establish standardized automation architectures, including:
  • Enterprise RTU designs and 80%-engineered templates
  • Control applications, logic frameworks, and integration models
  • Direct advanced system integration and validation activities to ensure reliable coordination with SCADA/ADMS, field devices, and enterprise platforms.
  • Serve as the standards owner for automation systems supporting behind-the-meter generation, large customer special loads, and evolving grid-edge use cases.
  • Own and lead the Operational & Automation Standards Control Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL) Lab, including:
  • Standards validation strategy
  • Remote lab access and testing governance
  • Technical oversight of production and pre-production automation testing
  • Partner with the Grid Automation & Innovation (A&I) team on production CHIL lab alignment, advanced testing strategy, and technology readiness.
  • Provide strategic coordination with the Grid Systems team to transition devices and automation solutions from development into commissioning and production.
  • Lead vendor engagement and collaboration with the Emerging Technology Office to evaluate, pilot, and mature advanced automation and embedded edge-control technologies.
  • Mentor and technically guide senior and mid-level engineers, strengthening enterprise bench depth in automation and grid integration.
  • Provides engineering/technical expertise and guidance in the identification, analysis and resolution of complex problems in area of expertise with the ability to visualize long-term results and assess impacts on a system-wide basis.
  • Support development of the Engineering Guidebook for Integration of Distributed Energy Resources.
  • Lead or support planning for protection standards associated with intentional islanding, black start, and abnormal grid conditions.
  • Provide technical oversight and governance of Control Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL) testing environments.
  • Serve as technical liaison for internal and external stakeholders including IEEE and EPRI.
  • Act as technical mentor to engineers across automation, protection, and grid integration disciplines.


Required/Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelors degree in Engineering
  • In addition to required degree, eight (8) years related work experience
  • Professional Engineer


Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with DER automation, DER protection, microgrids, or energy storage systems.
  • Familiarity with IEEE 1547, IEEE 2030, IEC 61850, and related standards.
  • Experience with SCADA and control protocols such as DNP, Modbus, or IEC 61850.
  • Modeling and analysis experience using CYME, PSCAD, Mathcad, Simulink, or similar tools.
  • Familiarity with IEC 61131 programming language
  • Familiarity/experience utilizing and programming SEL RTACs
  • Experience serving as technical lead or SME for enterprise automation or DER integration programs.
  • Experience with DERMS, microgrids, high-speed switching, and Control Hardware-in-the-Loop testing environments.


Additional Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with IEC 61131 programming language
  • Familiarity/experience utilizing and programming SEL RTACs
  • Experience serving as technical lead or SME for enterprise automation or DER integration programs.
  • Experience with DERMS, microgrids, high-speed switching, and Control Hardware-in-the-Loop testing environments.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and advanced automation protocols.
  • Skilled in engineering theories and principles
  • Skilled in the practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations and preparing and presenting recommendations.
  • Good written and oral communication skills.
  • Skilled principles of project management.
  • Experience in the utility industry.
  • Department specific experience applicable to the hiring department.


Working Conditions
  • Hybrid - Work will be performed from both remote and onsite locations after the onboarding period. However, hybrid employees should live within a reasonable commute to the designated Duke Energy facility.
  • Office, Lab, Field


Specific Requirements
  • Must have obtained Bachelor of Science in Engineering from an ABET accredited program and PE
  • Minimum of 8 years of engineering experience
  • Nuclear may require either Professional Engineer registration, a Masters Degree in a technical discipline, SRO certification, an RO or SRO license, or Technical Nuclear certification.
  • A Master's degree in Engineering will be considered in lieu of the B.S. Engineering degree.


Travel Requirements
15-25%

Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)
Yes

Represented/Union Position
No

Visa Sponsored Position
No

About Duke Energy Corporation

Duke Energy is one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States. Its Electric Utilities and Infrastructure business unit serves approximately 7.5 million customers located in six states in the Southeast and Midwest.

Duke Energy Corporation Careers

Join the dynamic team at Duke Energy Corporation, a leader in sustainable energy, where innovation, leadership, and diversity drive success. As one of the largest electric power holding companies in the United States, there has never been a better time to explore job opportunities with us. Work You’ll Do At Duke Energy, your work will directly contribute to shaping the future of energy across the nation. Our commitment to sustainable, reliable power is matched by our dedication to our team's professional growth and development. Lead in an Environment Focused on Innovation and Sustainability Duke Energy is at the forefront of integrating renewable energy and cutting-edge technology to meet tomorrow's energy needs. Join a team where your innovative ideas can flourish and where you are part of leading the charge toward a cleaner energy future. Transform Your Career with Unmatched Opportunities With a wide range of career paths, from engineering to customer service, Duke Energy offers job opportunities that cater to diverse skills and ambitions. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, you'll find a culture that supports your career aspirations. Internship Programs and Professional Development Start your career journey through Duke Energy’s internship programs designed to give you real-world experience and insights into the energy sector. Our programs help bridge the gap between academic learning and professional employment, enhancing your resume and preparing you for future hiring opportunities. Be Part of a Great Team Duke Energy’s commitment to diversity and inclusive culture makes it a great place to work. Our team is our strength, and we thrive on the creativity and different perspectives that each member brings. Enjoy benefits that support both your professional and personal life, as you collaborate with talented professionals dedicated to making a difference. Future-Proof Your Career Advance your career with Duke Energy’s extensive training and development programs. From leadership development to technical skills enhancement, we provide the tools you need to succeed. Our commitment to your growth ensures that your career is always moving forward. Explore Discover how Duke Energy is leading the way in renewable energy solutions and how our workforce is pivotal in driving this change. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Ready to start your journey with Duke Energy? Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and join a company that values what you bring to the table. SEARCH DUKE ENERGY JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Duke Energy Corporation. By joining Duke Energy, you’re not just getting a job—you’re gaining a career where you can truly make a difference.
Learn more about Duke Energy Corporation
Size
27,605 employees
Market Cap
$79 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.3 billion
5 Year Trend
+2%
Revenue
$23.8 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Duke Energy Corporation

More Energy & Utilities Jobs

Find similar Lead Engineer - Advanced Automation & Integration Standards jobs: