Position Summary
The Lead Controls Engineer position is responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of controls software libraries, PLC hardware design, and documentation for battery energy storage projects and product solutions.
Primary Job Functions
Position Summary
This position is responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of controls software libraries, PLC hardware design, and documentation for battery energy storage projects and product solutions.
- Develop and maintain a universal, scalable PLC platform that integrates with multiple project configuration and equipment, including the maintenance of PLC BOM and specification
- Develop and maintain the control libraries for the energy storage controller, including the integration of new PCS and Battery configurations into the control libraries
- Develop and maintain design documentation, including FMEA’s, System Requirements, Design Standards, and the Controls O&M Manual
- Support the development of the application specific HMI/UI for commissioning and operation of the energy storage system
- Testing and validation of developed components, including support for factory acceptance tests, on-site commissioning, and site acceptance tests.
- Vendor oversight – technical oversight of vendors for specific projects
- Participate in product planning and roadmap development
- Understand relevant safety and compliance requirements and ensure adherence
- Other responsibilities as assigned by the Engineering Manager
Other
- Seeks constant improvement, more efficient and less expensive ways and means in work processes.
- Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
- Performs special projects and other miscellaneous duties as assigned by senior management.
- Maintains high ethical standards in the workplace.
- Reports all irregular issues and problems to supervisors for solution.
- Maintains good communication with other management, office staff members and outside contacts.
- Complies with all company policies and procedures.
- Responsible for maintaining a clean and safe working area.
- Capable of performing excellent work independently.
- Regularly interact and work with senior management as high-level specialist in the Controls Engineering field, using advanced techniques, theories, and processes to complete work and collaborate in cross-functional decision-making teams.
- Provides leadership, coaching, and/or mentorship to Levels 1-4, and may act as a lead or first-level supervisor.
Job Dimensions (skills, knowledge & abilities)
- Knowledge of Medium and Low voltage distribution and protection systems
- Knowledge of Analog electronics (e.g., highly accurate power measurements)
- Familiarity with isolation, DC-DC power supplies, serial communication circuits
- Experience with battery and power management strongly desired
- Understanding of communications diagrams and advanced networking topology is required
- Working knowledge of network security, structured programming languages, energy storage control software, industrial communication protocols, and monitor and control systems
- Background with substation communication equipment and industrial protocols (MODBUS, DNP, ICCP, and OPC) is required
- Experience with design tools such as Microsoft Visio, etc. is required
- Experience with GE, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric or SEL PLC products, IEC 61131-3 programming languages, and Ignition HMI is a plus
- Agile, able to handle rapidly changing requirements
- Excellent communication skills (verbal/written)
- Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Windows system administration
- Ability to be self-motivated and perform duties in a collaborative working environment
Qualifications (Education & Work Experience)
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Process Controls, Engineering Technology, or combination of education and relevant experience
- 10+ years’ experience in power systems including high power (100 kW and above) inverters and DC systems or turbine controls
- 10+ years‘ experience in technical and data-related roles including demonstrated experience with implementing, operating, and maintaining PLC based control system software
- Proven history of achievements and advanced decision-making and/or consultative, cross-functional responsibilities
Tools & Equipment
- General office equipment including phones, fax, personal computer
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Project
Certificates/Licenses
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the primary job functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may b