Senior Power Systems Modeling Engineer, Real Time Simulation

At SMA America, we believe in Energy that Changes. Since 1981, we've been developing innovative solar technology that simplifies, secures, and enhances the performance of photovoltaic systems, all while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in clean energy.

But we're not just transforming power, we're empowering people.

We've built a culture where bold ideas are welcomed, collaboration is second nature, and your career growth truly matters. With our Rocklin, CA headquarters as the hub, we offer a hybrid work model, competitive benefits, and a team-driven environment where your impact is seen and felt.

Whether you're a sales expert, service pro, or engineering innovator, if you're ready to join a purpose-driven team committed to shaping the future of energy, we'd love to meet you.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

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Join SMA America and help shape the future of renewable energy grid integration. As a Senior Power Systems Modeling Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in advancing the deployment of SMA's industry-leading utility-scale solar PV and BESS solutions, supporting utility-scale renewable energy, battery storage, and next-generation data center applications. In this unique position, you will develop, validate, and analyze advanced power system models that support grid integration, interconnection compliance, and reliable operation of inverter-based resources. You will leverage high-fidelity real-time simulation models to evaluate and optimize inverter and plant control performance under a wide range of grid conditions.

The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in power systems engineering, hands-on experience with real-time simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) platforms such as RTDS, OPAL, and Typhoon, and a strong understanding of inverter-based resource controls and grid behavior. Beyond technical excellence, we are seeking a collaborative and forward-thinking professional who thrives in a dynamic global environment, enjoys solving complex engineering challenges, and is passionate about accelerating the energy transition.

At this position, you will have the opportunity to work with world-class experts in renewable energy and grid modernization. This role offers exposure to cutting-edge technologies, state-of-the-art simulation systems, global collaboration, and innovative projects that support the evolving needs of utilities, developers, and data center operators. PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES

Support the development and deployment of SMA's utility-scale solar, battery energy storage, hybrid power plant, and data center solutions through power system modeling and performance analysis.

Develop, maintain, and optimize real-time simulation models and Hardware-in-the-Loop test environments using platforms such as RTDS, OPAL-RT, and Typhoon HIL.

Perform simulation studies and model validation activities to support project development, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure alignment with customer and grid requirements.

Contribute to grid interconnection and compliance activities by interpreting utility and ISO requirements for generation and load, supporting the configuration and validation of SMA inverter and plant control solutions.

Analyze the performance of inverter-based resources, energy storage systems, and plant-level controls across solar, storage, and emerging data center power applications.

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution.

Minimum of 5 years of experience in power systems, renewable energy, utility applications, or a related engineering field.

Experience with real-time simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) platforms such as RTDS, OPAL-RT, Typhoon HIL, or similar technologies.

Experience supporting power system modeling and analysis activities, including dynamic performance studies, electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations, inverter and plant controller validation, and grid interconnection assessments.

Working knowledge of utility-scale PV and BESS plant design, single-line diagrams, control strategies, power electronic converters, and grid integration considerations.

Familiarity with inverter-based resource (IBR) behavior, grid support functions, and plant control strategies for utility-scale renewable energy and energy storage applications.

Exposure to or familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, CAN, DNP3, GOOSE, and SCADA systems.

Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret technical requirements and translate them into practical engineering solutions.

Proven ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, project-driven environment.

Willingness to travel internationally on an occasional basis, including visits to SMA headquarters in Kassel, Germany.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.

Compensation: $130,000 to $160,000 annually, dependent on experience and qualifications.

Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage, including $0 premium options.

Work Model: Hybrid, based at our Rocklin, CA headquarters.

401(k) plan with company match.

Opportunities for professional development and training.

Inclusive, collaborative, and innovative work environment.

Extent of responsibility: Regional.

We are an equal opportunity employer and we make our employment decisions on the basis of merit and without regard to one’s race, color, creed, sex (includes gender, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender identity, religion, marital status, age (over 40), national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability (includes HIV/Aids), medical condition (cancer, genetic characteristics), veteran’s status, sexual orientation, or any other consideration made unlawful by law. In accordance with applicable law protecting qualified individuals with known disabilities, SMA will attempt to reasonably accommodate qualified applicants with known disabilities, unless doing so would create an undue hardship on SMA. Any qualified applicant with a disability who believes he or she requires an accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job for which he or she is applying should identify the accommodation(s) needed in the application.

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