Renewable Energy Automation Engineer - BESS
Job DescriptionRenewable Energy Automation Engineer (BESS / Energy Storage Systems)Salary Range: $120k to $135k Position OverviewWe are seeking a Renewable Energy Automation Engineer specializing in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to support the design, development, integration, and commissioning of advanced Energy Management Systems (EMS) and SCADA solutions.This role focuses on control system architecture, automation engineering, and simulation modeling for utility-scale renewable energy and energy storage projects. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in power systems automation, SCADA/EMS integration, and control system development within complex industrial environments.Key Responsibilities Control Systems & EMS EngineeringDesign and develop control systems for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Architect EMS components including Power Plant Controllers, SCADA systems, historians, and simulation environments Translate engineering and product requirements into SCADA/EMS technical solutions Develop and maintain system design specifications for development and operations teams SCADA & Automation SystemsConfigure SCADA systems including HMI design, data mapping, alarm management, and user access controls Support SCADA integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting across energy storage deployments Develop automation logic using IEC 61131-3 structured text and related platforms (e.g., CODESYS, TIA Portal, RTAC systems) Improve automation workflows and control system performance Simulation, Modeling & ValidationDevelop and validate dynamic simulation models using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, EMTP, or equivalent Perform Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing Analyze control system behavior and edge cases through simulation and validation environments Execute system testing and validation for EMS integration at power plant sites Systems Integration & Engineering SupportCollaborate with firmware, software, product, and compliance teams on control system design and enhancements Support installation, commissioning, and operational troubleshooting of deployed systems Review technical designs and documentation from vendors and contractors Support production and field teams in resolving SCADA and controls-related issues Infrastructure & CybersecurityAdminister supporting infrastructure including VMware, Windows Server, and identity/access systems Support system backup, recovery, and asset management processes Ensure cybersecurity compliance aligned with industry standards (e.g., NERC CIP) Work with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3, OPC-UA, IEC 61850, MQTT, etc.) Documentation, Training & CollaborationDevelop technical documentation, system architecture diagrams, and design standards Present control system designs to technical and non-technical stakeholders Provide training to project, engineering, and service teams on system operation and troubleshooting Contribute to continuous improvement of engineering processes and standards Required QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (BSEE/MSEE preferred) 7+ years of experience in automation engineering within utility-scale renewable energy or EPC environments Strong experience with SCADA systems and Energy Management Systems (EMS) Proficiency in IEC 61131-3 programming (structured text preferred) Experience with power systems and energy storage technologies (BESS, inverters, transformers, power flow) Experience with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3, OPC-UA, IEC 61850, MQTT) Experience with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, EMTP, or equivalent Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills Preferred QualificationsProfessional Engineer (PE) license Experience with VMware, Windows Server, Azure, Active Directory, and firewall/security tools Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks (NERC CIP, Security+) Experience with OSIsoft PI, Python, C/C++, Linux, or similar tools Experience with HIL/SIL testing environments Familiarity with managed network infrastructure and industrial cybersecurity Additional InformationApproximately 20% domestic and international travel required Experience in renewable energy, grid modernization, or utility-scale storage strongly preferred Core CompetenciesBattery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) SCADA / EMS Architecture Power Systems Automation Control Systems Engineering Simulation & Modeling (MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD) Industrial Communications Protocols Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Administration System Integration & Commissioning Technical Documentation & Training