Senior Controls Engineer, Utility-Scale PV & BESS

Senior Controls Engineer, Utility-Scale PV & BESS

Remote, US

Why Work at SMA America

At SMA America, we believe in Energy that Changes. Since 1981, we’ve been developing innovative solar technology that simplifies, secures, and enhances the performance of photovoltaic systems — all while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in clean energy. We empower people, build a culture where bold ideas are welcomed, collaboration is second nature, and career growth matters. With our Rocklin, CA headquarters as the hub, we offer a hybrid work model, competitive benefits, and a team-driven environment where your impact is seen and felt.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We do not offer visa sponsorship. Candidates requiring sponsorship are not eligible.

AI-Generated Application Materials

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Purpose of the Position

The Senior Controls Engineer enables reliable and compliant plant operation at the point of interconnection (POI) allowing customers to integrate SMA system solutions into their local markets. The role may support integration tests and site acceptance tests for compliance with local grid codes.

Primary Duties / Responsibilities

• Configure, program, integrate, and maintain SMA’s utility‑scale inverters’ plant‑level control system, the SMA Power Plant Manager (PPM).
• Ensure SMA inverter and PPM functions and parameters align with customer expectations and project requirements.
• Oversee performance of large‑scale photovoltaic and BESS power plant projects up to hundreds of megawatts.
• Provide comprehensive control‑related technical support throughout the end‑to‑end process of complex customer projects in North America.
• Act as the key contact during the pre‑sales phase, working with project developers, SCADA vendors, and EMS providers, and serve as primary support for SMA America Service.
• Lead Control System Assessments by gathering project data and defining functional requirements for the PPM.
• Analyze electrical system parameters, grid code requirements, and plant configurations.
• Configure and/or describe the PPM in applications including active and reactive power control, grid‑forming versus grid‑following operation, SOC balancing, battery dispatch strategy, and frequency response.
• Compose documents and high‑level schematics demonstrating PPM functions’ alignment with project and grid requirements.
• Create and support Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) validating inverter functionality in accordance with project and grid requirements.
• Support integration testing, tuning, interoperability with SCADA interfaces and third‑party Power Plant Controllers, and Site Acceptance Testing.
• Other duties as required or assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, energy engineering, control systems engineering, or a comparable field.
• 5–8 years of professional experience in power plant controls or SCADA systems.
• Solid knowledge of utility‑scale PV and BESS system technology, including hands‑on experience with control systems, energy management systems, or communication systems for PV/BESS projects.
• Strong understanding of power system behavior at the POI, grid codes, and grid‑forming functionalities.
• Experience with communication protocols such as Modbus and DNP3.
• Experience with RTDS.
• Familiarity with PLCs, edge controllers, or plant control systems.
• Familiarity with SCADA and EMS.

Other Specialized Skills

• Extensive knowledge of power systems, SCADA/communication protocols, and plant control logic, with ability to deliver communication interface configuration files and control‑related documentation.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Strong methodological competence in structuring complex overall project contexts, demonstrated through successfully delivered projects.
• Proficiency in the English language, both written and verbal; German and/or Spanish language skills are a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Attention to detail and high accuracy.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems effectively.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work individually and as part of a team in a global environment.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to present information to senior management and other audiences.
• May require periodic domestic and international travel.

We Offer

• Base salary range of $125,000 to $150,000 annually, dependent on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision coverage, and $0 premium options.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Inclusive, collaborative, innovative work environment.

Our EEO Policy

We are an equal opportunity employer and we make our employment decisions on the basis of merit and without regard to one’s race, color, creed, sex (includes gender, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender identity, religion, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability (includes HIV/AIDS), medical condition (cancer, genetic characteristics), veteran’s status, sexual orientation, or any other consideration made unlawful by law. In accordance with applicable law protecting qualified individuals with known disabilities, SMA will attempt to reasonably accommodate qualified applicants with known disabilities, unless doing so would create an undue hardship on SMA. Any qualified applicant with a disability who believes he or she requires an accommodation should identify the accommodation(s) needed in the application.