POSITION OVERVIEWThe Senior Grid Modeling Engineer serves as a subject-matter expert in power system modeling and grid-integration analysis of SMA's utility-scale photovoltaic and battery energy storage solutions. The role provides modeling expertise to support the U.S. Application Engineering team, supplying analytical inputs required to conduct dynamic and steady-state studies, electromagnetic transient analysis, and comprehensive interconnection and regulatory compliance evaluations using industry-standard simulation models. Success in this position requires a strong foundation in power system engineering, advanced proficiency with simulation tools such as PSS/E, PSCAD/EMTDC, and TSAT, and deep technical insight into inverter-based resource behavior and control. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical rigor, a collaborative approach, and the ability to work effectively across U.S. and global teams.
PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES- Serve as a subject-matter expert in the modeling and analysis of utility-scale solar, storage, and hybrid power plants, supporting the U.S. Application Engineering team across multiple SMA America projects and applications.
- Interpret ISO/TSO interconnection requirements (e.g., ERCOT, MISO, CAISO, ISO-NE, NYISO, PJM, SPP) and recommend appropriate SMA control configurations and parameter tuning, delivering customized models aligned with project-specific scopes.
- Maintain and manage versions of SMA's model portfolio across PSS/E, PSCAD/EMTDC, TSAT, and other simulation platforms used in the North American market.
- Provide technical support to the U.S. Application Engineering team by troubleshooting model functionality and executing simulation studies to validate dynamic model behavior against design specifications.
- Analyze inverter control modes and plant-level control strategies -- including their interactions in solar, storage, and hybrid system configurations -- and support model validation testing, benchmarking activities, and interconnection study workflows.
- Prepare comprehensive modeling study reports, technical documentation, and project deliverables that clearly communicate simulation findings and recommendations for IBR integration projects.
- Evaluate the impact of inverter-based resources on power system stability and propose technically sound mitigation strategies using SMA's technology portfolio.
- Act as a liaison between the U.S. Application Engineering team and SMA's Global Competence Center, ensuring effective communication and alignment on modeling-related tasks.
- Collaborate with SMA's modeling team in Germany by providing feedback on model performance, identifying potential issues, recommending new functionality, and communicating emerging modeling requirements and trends in North America.
- Participate in industry working groups and technical discussions related to modeling standards and grid-code requirements in North America (e.g., NERC, ESIG, ISOs, TSOs, utilities), representing and supporting the advancement of SMA technologies.
- Develop and deliver internal and external training materials on modeling tools, methodologies, and SMA model capabilities, supporting customer engagements, workshops, and technical presentations.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, product management, engineering, and service teams to ensure alignment on technical requirements and modeling-related initiatives.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational and departmental objectives.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution is required. A master's degree is preferred; a doctoral degree is highly advantageous.
- Minimum 5--7 years of professional experience in the utility-scale renewable energy sector, specifically involving photovoltaic and energy storage systems.
- At least 5 years of hands-on experience developing and analyzing dynamic and steady-state models of inverter-based resources using PSS/E, TSAT, and PSCAD/EMTDC.
- Experience performing power system analyses including SMIB generation modeling, power flow, transient stability, electromagnetic transient, and short-circuit analyses is highly desirable.
- Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) platforms such as RTDS/GTSOC, OPAL-RT, or Typhoon HIL is a strong plus.
- Experience with TSAT modeling tools, particularly in ERCOT and MISO jurisdictions, is a strong plus.
- Familiarity with Python, ASPEN OneLiner, MATLAB, or similar analytical tools is advantageous.
- Demonstrated knowledge of utility-scale PV and BESS plant design, including single-line diagrams, control strategies, and integration considerations.
- Comprehensive understanding of power electronic converters, medium-voltage transformers, MV switchgear, and protection system design.
- Strong familiarity with grid-forming inverter technology and advanced battery storage control solutions is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with NERC reliability standards, IEEE technical standards, and grid-code requirements across major North American system operators is advantageous.
- Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally and work effectively in a fast-paced environment managing multiple concurrent projects.
- Willingness to travel internationally on an occasional basis, including visits to SMA headquarters in Kassel, Germany.
- Proficiency in English, with strong written and verbal communication skills, is required.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook) is required.
- Note: Degrees completed more than three years ago are preferred for this role, as we are seeking candidates with substantial hands-on industry experience beyond their academic foundation.
WE OFFER- Base salary range of $137,000 to $157,000 annually, dependent on experience, plus bonus eligibility.
- Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage, including $0 premium options.
- Remote-first work schedule. Continental U.S. candidates only.
- Relocation assistance available; budget to be confirmed.
- 401(k) plan with company match.
- Opportunities for professional development, training, and participation in industry working groups and standards bodies.
- Inclusive, collaborative, and innovative work environment with global cross-functional exposure.
