About the role#
The Power Systems Engineering Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory is seeking a graduate-level intern to assist with research on power systems operations. You will work on real-time simulation and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing of microgrids within distribution systems. This is a full-time, year-round internship based in Golden, Colorado, requiring regular in-person laboratory work.
What you'll do#
- Set up controller hardware-in-the-loop (CHIL) interfaces using commercial microgrid controllers and relays for real-time simulation models.
- Conduct HIL experiments using real-time simulation models of distribution feeders.
- Implement sequences of operation for grid-connected and islanded utility-scale microgrids.
- Analyze high-resolution data from simulations and experiments using Python.
- Contribute to or lead the writing of research papers while collaborating with laboratory researchers.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in or recent graduation from a Master’s program, or current enrollment in a Ph.D. program in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Power Systems or a related field.
- A minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average.
- Experience with power system modeling, dynamics, and control (such as OpenDSS).
- Proficiency in programming commercial relays and microgrid controllers.
- Experience working with RTDS simulators and devices such as SEL RTAC and SEL relays.
- Strong Python programming skills.
- Demonstrated problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and the ability to follow project timelines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience conducting power hardware-in-the-loop and controller HIL experiments is preferred.
Location & details#
- This position is located on-site at the South Table Mountain Campus in Golden, Colorado.
- This is a paid, full-time internship with a rolling term.
About National Renewable Energy Laboratory
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory operates as the primary national laboratory for the United States Department of Energy focused on energy systems research. Founded in 1977, the organization conducts research in energy efficiency, basic science, and energy security. It maintains a staff of approximately 3,751 employees. The laboratory is based in Golden, Colorado.
How to get in at National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Securing a position at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory requires speed, as early applicants often receive more attention before the candidate pool becomes crowded. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, helping you apply among the first. This timing advantage helps you get your materials in front of the team before the pile grows. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the right people. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral. This direct approach is often more effective than submitting an application into a general queue.
