Senior Grid Modeling Engineer, Large Scale Grid Integration at SMA America

United States

$137k - $157k

Why Work at SMA America 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. WORK AUTHORIZATION 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. AI-GENERATED APPLICATION MATERIALS We review all resumes and application materials for AI-generated content. Submissions that show evidence of AI manipulation -- including AI-written resumes, cover letters, or responses -- will be disqualified from consideration without further review. We want to hear your authentic voice and see your genuine experience. POSITION OVERVIEW The 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. Our EEO Policy 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. Our Privacy Policy During your job application or recruitment process with us: (a) SMA may collect your personal information directly from you, such as when you submit your application and resume on our online portal or when you have job interviews with us. We may also obtain your personal information from third parties, including but not limited to your former employers, background or employment check service providers or third-party recruiters; and, (b) SMA may use or process applicants' personal information for relevant purposes including but not limited to general communications with you, identity verification, background or employment checks, determination of eligibility, and making hiring decisions. For successful job applicants who become SMA’s staff, we may retain and integrate your personal information collected during the recruitment process into your records at SMA. For unsuccessful job applicants, [SMA may retain your application for internal records or for future recruitment purposes]. If you are a California resident, you have specific rights regarding your personal information under the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, as amended including by the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020, and its implementing regulations (the “CCPA”). This Company Personnel and Covered Individuals Privacy Notice for California Residents issued by SMA is applicable to you and explains your CCPA rights and our collection, use or disclosure of your personal information. If you have any question regarding our privacy policy, please contact us at US_DataPrivacy@sma-america.com