Power Systems Engineer
The Job of a Power Systems Engineer, a comprehensive guide
Solar Systems Engineers work on large-scale solar projects and are responsible for optimizing the energy generation, transmission, and distribution of solar power. They are also involved in designing and developing solar power systems that meet the specific needs of their clients, whether they are working closely with utilities or large commercial and industrial clients
Overview of the Power Systems Engineer Job
Systems engineers are highly specialized roles that work on optimizing the largest scale utility or industrial projects PV installations and solar thermal systems.
Power Systems Engineer Salary
System Engineers earn an average of ~$94,240 per the IREC.
Common Power Systems Engineer Job Descriptions
Solar Systems Engineer are responsible for the following key activities:
Designing and Developing Solar Systems: Design and develop solar power systems, including photovoltaic (PV) panels, solar inverters, and energy storage systems. They must ensure that the systems meet the specific requirements of their clients and are optimized for maximum energy generation.
Conducting Site Assessments: Conduct site assessments to determine the suitability of the location, the amount of sunlight available, and any potential obstacles that may affect energy production. Systems Engineers partner closely with Project Developers and Designers at this stage
Modeling and Simulation: The core of the systems engineer’s job is to perform modeling and simulation of complex power distribution systems. This will entail modeling different assets such as voltage regulators, capacitor banks, cables, grid edge devices and more
Conducting Technical Analysis: Conduct technical analysis from big data (AMI meters, SCADA) to understand quantitative measures from utilities
Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Solar Systems Engineers are responsible for providing technical support for large-scale solar power systems, including isolating issues and replacing defective equipment, upgrading systems, and monitoring energy production.
Power Systems Engineer Job and Skill Requirements
To become a systems engineer in the solar industry, you will see the requirements below:
BS or higher in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering with a focus in Power Systems Engineering; Master’s in Power Systems may be required
3+ years working in a systems role (unless it’s an entry-level position)
Knowledge of distribution automation, planning, modeling and simulation
Experience using grid modeling tools like Milsoft, OpenDSS, GridLab, Cyme, or Synergi
Experience with programming languages like Python for ad hoc big data analysis
Strong data visualization skills and experience with BI tools like Tableau
In addition to formal education, Utility Engineers in the solar industry should have excellent problem-solving skills, the ability to work well in a team, and a deep understanding of electrical systems and safety protocols.
What's the day-to-day of a Power Systems Engineer?
The majority of a day is typically busy with modeling and quantitative analysis of existing utilities using a variety of software tools. Systems engineers will hold regular meetings with internal stakeholders like Project Developers to update on assumptions, proposals, and findings from their work. They may be looped into troubleshooting problems with the existing grid.
Job Outlook for Power Systems Engineers
Systems engineers are highly specialized roles that will continue to be needed as the utility infrastructure of the United States is overhauled in the coming decade. Solar is expected to outpace overall labor market and these roles will be needed well beyond the installation of large scale solar projects in the next decade
Career Opportunities for Power Systems Engineers
Solar System Engineers are already highly specialized. The opportunity exists to further your career by ascending into management positions at utilities or within larger solar companies undertaking commercial and industrial projects
How to Become a Power Systems Engineer
Systems engineers are a niche profession so be sure to build your network and reach out to college or graduate school alumni in your field for the latest opportunities. Browsing general job boards and subscribing to job alerts for the latest systems jobs will help you hear of the latest posting. Check out the WorkInSolar job board for the latest systems jobs specifically focused on solar opportunities.
How to keep learning more
Systems engineers are a niche role for which you will need the required education and experience to join the solar field. If you have an engineering background and are interested, consider obtaining a Master’s degree in Systems Engineering to join the workforce. Subscribe to our blog to stay up to date on the latest solar market trends in the labor market.
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