Graduate (Year-Round) Intern – Modeling, Real-Time Simulation and Hardware in the Loop (HIL) Testing of Distribution Systems
Ora
Summary
The Power Systems Engineering Center at The National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) focuses on conducting research projects to improve power systems operations. We develop cutting edge solutions and work closely with industry and utility partners to enhance grid reliability, resilience, and security.
Job description
Our team is looking for a graduate level intern who has solid background on simulation and hardware in the loop testing of microgrids in distribution systems. An ideal candidate is expected to have a good knowledge of dynamic modeling of distribution systems, relay programming, microgrid controller programming as well as setting up controller hardware in the loop (CHIL) interfaces for real-time simulators. This will be a 3 to 6 month opportunity.
The preferred candidate would be working on
- Setting up CHIL interfaces using commercial microgrid controllers and relays for real-time simulation models of microgrids
- Conducting Hardware in the Loop (HIL) experiments using real-time simulation models of distribution feeders and hardware microgrid controllers
- Implementing sequence of operations for grid-connected and islanded operation of utility-scale microgrids in commercial microgrid controllers
- Analyzing high-resolution data collected from real-time simulations and HIL experiments of distribution feeders using Python
- Contributing and/or leading the writing of research papers and working closely with NLR researchers and delivering high-impact work
Note: this position requires regular laboratory testing and in-person work arrangements at NLR's South Table Mountain Campus in Golden, CO are required. This role is not eligible to fully remote work arrangements.
Requirements
- Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average
- Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited institution
- Earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 12 months
- Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a master’s degree program from an accredited institution
- Earned a master’s degree within the past 12 months
- Completed master’s degree and enrolled as PhD student from an accredited institution
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Master’s program, or currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems or a related field
- Demonstrated knowledge or experience in power system modeling, dynamics, and control (OpenDSS or similar)
- Experience in programming commercial relays and microgrid controllers
- Experience in working with RTDS simulator, devices like SEL RTAC and SEL relays
- Self-motivated, having good problem-solving capability, and ability to follow project timelines
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Good programming skills in Python
- Experience in conducting power hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and controller HIL experiments for distribution systems
- Experience in setting up microgrid controllers and relays
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- 403(b) Matching
- Sick Leave
- Performance Awards
- Relocation Reimbursement
Company overview
Ora is the world's leading full-service ophthalmic drug and device development firm, operating as a specialized contract research organization (CRO) focused exclusively on ophthalmology. Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, the company has over 45 years of experience in advancing eye care innovations globally. Ora provides comprehensive research and development services spanning preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory strategy, and product development for both pharmaceutical and medical device companies. With operations across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Asia, the company has helped clients achieve more than 85 product approvals to date. Ora's expertise covers a wide range of ophthalmic conditions including allergy, dry eye, retina diseases, glaucoma, and anti-infective therapies. The company employs over 500 ophthalmology specialists who utilize proprietary clinical models, integrated data solutions, and global regulatory strategies to accelerate product development from concept to market. Ora serves a diverse client base ranging from startups to global pharmaceutical and device companies, positioning itself as the trusted partner for ophthalmic innovation worldwide.