The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is seeking an enthusiastic and driven power distribution system intern within the Strategic Energy Analysis and Decision Sciences (SEADS) directorate. The SEADS directorate contributes to an exciting portfolio of energy analysis, grid futures studies, applying advanced modeling and simulation tools to optimally plan and control for, design, and analyze distribution and bulk power systems.
You would join us in researching, supporting and advancing electric distribution systems research, using power-flow modeling, optimization, machine-learning, capacity modeling, forecasting techniques, statistical analysis, and data analysis among other research techniques. You would join a highly collaborative team of distribution researchers who are focused on delivering a reliable, sustainable, affordable, equitable, and resilient grid of the future. This team works with distribution utilities, regulators, and government entities across the U.S. and internationally, and works across multiple Department of Energy offices. The team focuses on major challenges including capacity expansion of the distribution system to enable electrification of buildings and vehicles, and integration of distributed energy resources including solar, wind, and battery storage.
Click here to learn more about the exciting work this team is doing! https://www.nrel.gov/grid/distribution-integration.html
Job Responsibilities may include:
- Working with NREL staff to run simulations and analyze data related to distributed energy resources and distribution systems
- Distribution system analysis, including upgrade analysis, non-wire alternatives, and DER and electrification integration
- Developing modeling and analysis tools, simulation techniques, and visualizations related to the DERs and distribution systems
- Following all environment, safety, and health policies and procedures to ensure and maintain a safe working environment.
Basic Qualifications
Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average. Undergraduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited institution. Post Undergraduate: Earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year. Graduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a master’s degree program from an accredited institution. Post Graduate: Earned a master’s degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year. Graduate + PhD: Completed master’s degree and enrolled as PhD student from an accredited institution.
* Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
Additional Required Qualifications
The successful candidate will have either completed their graduate degree or be enrolled in a graduate degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, data science, or related discipline. In addition, the successful candidate should have:
- General knowledge and application of electricity distribution system planning, operations, and DER concepts
- Strong computer skills including at least one programming language relevant to simulation, data analysis, visualization, optimization, and/or high-performance computing e.g. (python, Julia, R, Matlab)
- Strong writing, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in design, modeling, simulation, and analysis of distribution systems, DERs, building loads, and power-flow.
- Experience with NREL-developed tools for energy modeling, simulation, and analysis.
- Experience with open-source software development in Python and with distribution power-flow (e.g., one of OpenDSS, WindMil, Synergi, CYME, PowerWorld, MATPOWER, PowerFactory, etc.).
- An understanding of distribution system planning and operation, DERs, electrification load modeling, and network resilience.
- An understanding of building and transportation electrification, renewable energy, and energy efficiency technologies.
Job Application Submission Window
The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.
Submission Guidelines
Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at NREL you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.
