Senior Controls Engineer – OT SCADA Projects

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

📋 Description

• Oversee the comprehensive design of controls for utility-scale solar, BESS, and hybrid projects, from initiation through to commissioning and project closure.

• Program and commission SEL controllers utilizing AcSELerator; create control logic in Codesys using IEC 61131-3 structured text.

• Recognize project-specific deviations from the standard product scope during the contracting phase, and project the necessary development work.

• Implement and validate closed-loop Active Power and Reactive Power, AVR, and PFR Algorithms.

• Maintain version control for all code artifacts following the established version control procedures.

• Diagnose complex SCADA and control issues using tools such as Wireshark, breakpoints, cross-reference, and watch list functionalities.

• Generate project deliverables, including System Architecture Diagrams, Control Narratives, Logic Diagrams, commissioning documents, and operator manuals.

• Collaborate with the Product Engineering team to contribute to new feature development and address bug fixes.

• Review documentation produced by junior controls engineers, covering both technical and non-technical aspects.

• Lead the Continuous Improvement and Lessons Learned program, integrating field insights into product standards and templates.

• Mentor junior engineers through FAT preparation and customer-facing presentations.

• Act as the primary technical contact for controls with EPCs, asset owners, and grid operators throughout project execution, FAT, and commissioning phases.

• Conduct FATs as formal presentations, effectively communicating with non-technical audiences supported by prepared materials.

• Identify technical risks and schedule constraints, providing management with context and suggested solutions.

• Regularly maintain Jira tickets with comprehensive details and enforce best practices with junior engineers.

• Deliver high-quality work independently across multiple concurrent projects, demonstrating ownership and urgency.

• Utilize standardized platforms and tools, steering clear of project-specific one-off engineering methods.

• Ensure 100% compliance with Terabase quality processes and enforce these standards with junior engineers.

• Guide junior controls engineers through technical mentoring, code reviews, and FAT coaching.

• Complete project deliverables on time, within scope, and in accordance with Utility/ISO regulatory standards.

• Maintain Jira, version control, and documentation consistently, without requiring follow-up from management.

• Be recognized both internally and externally as the primary technical authority on Terabase SCADA and OT controls.

• Travel up to 10% for on-site commissioning, FAT, and customer interactions.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Technology, or a related discipline.

• 3-5+ years of experience in IEC 61131-3/PLC programming, ideally within Codesys or AcSELerator environments.

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in utility-scale power plant controls (solar, BESS, or hybrid).

• Proficiency in IEC 61131-3 programming, primarily using AcSELerator (SEL controllers) and Codesys, including Diagram Builder, traces, breakpoints, and watch lists.

• In-depth knowledge of industrial protocols such as Modbus-TCP, DNP3, OPC-UA, etc.

• Expert understanding of grid functionality, including PFR, AVR, Reactive Power, Voltage Regulation, and Capacitor Banks, with a grasp of the underlying grid rationale rather than just controller behavior.

• Competence with Utility/ISO testing and interconnection standards (ERCOT, PJM, BPA, IEEE 2800, NERC, etc.).

• Experience in Power Plant Controller (PPC) design, configuration, and commissioning.

• Familiarity with PSCAD, PSSE, and/or TSAT modeling processes for utility-scale projects.

🏝️ Benefits

• Generous time off and holiday policy.

• Flexibility for remote work.

• Flexible time off options.

• Comprehensive benefits package.

• Opportunities for career advancement.

• 401k matching program.

• Stock options available.

• Allowance for home office setup.

• And much more!