Computer Electrical Engineering Intern Microgrid Software & Field Operations

About the Role

We design, build, and commission utility-scale solar and battery storage systems across California. This role is split between the keyboard and the field: some weeks you're writing Python to optimize battery dispatch, and some weeks you're standing in front of a live switchgear lineup with a laptop and a meter, figuring out why an inverter won't come online. You'll work directly with our licensed engineers on real projects that are energized, interconnected, and being watched by clients and utilities. Nothing here is a sandbox exercise.

What You'll Do

Field & Commissioning Support

• Support microgrid and BESS operations on-site — startup, shutdown, mode transitions, and routine checks under the direction of a licensed engineer
• Troubleshoot inverters, batteries, protective relays, and communications links (Modbus, DNP3) when systems misbehave
• Execute functional and acceptance test procedures; document results, punch-list items, and as-found conditions
• Verify SCADA points, alarm mappings, and HMI displays against actual field equipment

Software, Data & Optimization

• Write Python for dispatch optimization, tariff and bill-savings modeling, and performance analysis
• Build data pipelines connecting inverters, meters, and controllers into our historian and monitoring stack
• Develop forecasting and anomaly-detection models on live sensor data
• Build web dashboards so engineers and clients can see system performance in real time

New Systems & Technology

• Prototype and evaluate new control strategies, storage technologies, and monitoring tools
• Help stand up test benches and bring new equipment into our EMS
• Support single-line diagrams, load calculations, and NEC-compliant layouts alongside our PEs

Tech Stack

• Python
• pandas / NumPy
• scikit-learn or TensorFlow
• REST APIs
• SQL
• Modbus & DNP3
• React (or similar)
• Git
• Linux
• SEL RTAC / Ignition SCADA (we'll teach you)

Must Have

• Pursuing a BS/MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field
• Strong Python — clean, readable, version-controlled
• Willing and able to work in the field: outdoors, in equipment yards
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites (day trips, occasional overnight)
• Methodical about testing and documentation — you write down what you did and what happened
• Comfortable working independently and asking smart questions

Big Plus

• Hands-on experience with hardware: labs, robotics, embedded systems, car projects, anything where you've debugged something physical
• Coursework or projects in power systems, controls, ML, or data science (send us your GitHub)
• Industrial protocol exposure — Modbus, DNP3, BACnet, CAN
• Experience building a UI or dashboard
• Interest in energy, grid reliability, or climate tech

Logistics

All field work is performed under the supervision of qualified personnel. We provide required PPE and safety training, including electrical safety orientation before any site work. Some sites require background checks for access.

Pay: $24.00 - $50.00 per hour

Work Location: In person