Power Systems HIL Engineer

Merit Controls is seeking a Power Systems Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Engineer to help develop and validate advanced control solutions for utility-scale renewable energy projects. In this role, you'll design HIL simulations, automate testing, and collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure the performance and reliability of our Plant Power Controller (PPC) and related control systems.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve Merit Controls' Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) platform used to verify the performance of Plant Power Controller (PPC) and plant control system applications
• Design, execute, and automate HIL test cases to verify PPC functionality, control algorithms, communications, and project-specific operational requirements
• Develop and maintain automated testing frameworks, scripting tools, repeatability, regression testing, and documentation
• Develop reusable HIL test scenarios, validation procedures, and simulation assets that integrate with Merit Controls' automated testing framework
• Configure, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize HIL hardware, simulation models, communication interfaces, and laboratory test equipment
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and customer demonstrations using the HIL platform to validate system performance and resolve technical issues
• Maintain accurate documentation of HIL models, test procedures, automated test scripts, validation results, and engineering reports
• Develop and validate PSCAD, PSS®E, and GE PSLF power system models to support HIL testing, project execution, and generator interconnection studies
• Perform power system studies including load flow, dynamic stability, reactive power, short circuit, and voltage analysis
• Assist in evaluating utility interconnection requirements, transmission studies, and applicable grid codes to support renewable energy project development
• Analyze HIL test results, identify root causes of control system issues, and collaborate with Controls, Applications Engineering, and Product Development teams to implement corrective actions and continuous product improvements
• Support the development, testing, and implementation of SCADA, PPC, communication, and network solutions for utility-scale renewable energy facilities
• Participate in control system architecture development, product standardization initiatives, and continuous improvement activities
• Partner with Systems Enablement to integrate HIL validation into automated build, test, and release workflows
• Collaborate with customers, utilities, EPCs, consultants, and internal engineering teams to define project requirements, resolve technical issues, and support successful project execution
• Assist with technical evaluations related to NERC, FERC, ISO, utility interconnection requirements, and customer-specific compliance requirements
• Stay current on emerging renewable energy technologies, inverter-based resource (IBR) controls, grid integration requirements, and advancements in HIL simulation platforms

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline is required
• 2–5 years of professional experience in electrical power systems, controls engineering, renewable energy, or a related engineering field
• Ability to interpret electrical drawings, one-line diagrams, control narratives, engineering reports, and technical specifications
• Ability to evaluate utility interconnection requirements, transmission studies, and applicable industry standards
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to balance technical, schedule, and customer requirements
• Ability to organize and manage multiple engineering activities while maintaining attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively with customers, utilities, consultants, and cross-functional engineering teams
• Ability to prepare clear technical reports, test procedures, validation documentation, and engineering presentations
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across Controls Engineering, Applications Engineering, Product Development, and Project Management teams
• Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
• Continuous learner with an interest in renewable energy technologies, power system controls, and emerging industry standards
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative engineering environment
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments
• Willingness to travel up to 25% to support customer projects, testing activities, and Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)
• Ability to stand and sit for 8 or more hours when in an office environment
• Ability to speak, read, and write English proficiently and deliver a variety of instructions furnished in written, verbal, diagram, or schedule form
• Ability to understand a variety of instructions furnished in written, verbal, diagram, or schedule form
• Ability to understand and communicate safety precautions when necessary
• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with an emphasis in Power Systems, Power Electronics, Control Systems, or Renewable Energy Systems is preferred
• Experience with utility-scale solar PV, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), hybrid renewable energy plants, or inverter-based resources (IBR) is preferred
• Experience developing or supporting Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulations, power system models, or control system validation is highly desirable
• Demonstrated experience with power system modeling and analysis tools such as PSCAD, Siemens PSS®E, or GE PSLF is preferred
• Knowledge of NERC, FERC, ISO/RTO, and utility interconnection requirements is preferred