Head of Microgrid Controls

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in California.

📋 Description

• Define and advance BoxPower’s controls software architecture to ensure scalability, maintainability, and reusability across various project types.

• Design a modular and reusable codebase that speeds up deployment for both BoxPower’s standard and custom products.

• Create and sustain integration libraries for batteries, solar PV inverters, generator controllers, fuel cells, wind, and other emerging Distributed Energy Resources (DER).

• Build and oversee a controls engineering team over time: assess hiring requirements, lead recruitment for direct reports, and onboard new engineers.

• Incorporate AI tools and methodologies into the development, testing, and documentation processes of controls software.

• Commission and initiate microgrid control systems on-site, including point-to-point verification, functional testing, and performance assessment.

• Develop and maintain controls documentation, including control system architecture diagrams, I/O lists, communication diagrams, and programming documentation.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline; or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.

• Over 8 years of experience in controls engineering, power systems controls, or industrial automation, with a strong emphasis on microgrid, DER, or power generation applications.

• Proven experience as a platform or software architecture owner for industrial controls or microgrid systems, beyond just project delivery.

• Demonstrated proficiency in programming PLCs or automation controllers for power/energy applications.

• Experience with SEL RTAC is highly preferred.

• Strong skills in software architecture and development, with the capability to design modular and reusable code for production control platforms.

• Familiarity with communication protocols utilized in power systems (Modbus TCP/RTU, DNP3, IEC 61850).

• Proficiency in structured text, Codesys, ladder logic, Linux, Python, JavaScript, and similar technologies.

• Ability to read and interpret single-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, relay settings, and protection schemes.

• Experience with generator paralleling controls, breaker controls, and protection relay coordination.

• Practical experience in commissioning and troubleshooting electrical control systems in the field.

• Capability to work safely on energized electrical control equipment.

• Demonstrated interest in or experience with leadership: mentoring junior engineers, leading project teams, or formally managing direct reports.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information to engineers, executives, and external stakeholders.

• Willingness to travel 10–25% depending on project requirements.

🏝️ Benefits

• Health insurance

• Retirement plans

• Flexible work arrangements

• Professional development