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Systems Control Engineer

  • On-site
    • San Juan Capistrano, California, United States
  • Engineering

Job description

About us:

Pacifico Energy Group (PEG) is a privately held investment company that seeds and sponsors real asset-based companies. With controlling interests in renewable energy development platforms, vertically integrated independent power producers, and aviation companies around the globe, PEG plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of these sectors. PEG has a proven track record of seeding and scaling development platforms, including Pacifico Energy Japan—the largest solar developer in Japan.


In 2020, recognizing the challenges facing US utility-scale projects, PEG founded and seeded Pacifico Power to target the behind-the-meter (BTM) and distributed generation (DG) markets. Pacifico Power is a U.S. focused energy infrastructure platform that delivers customized industrial scale energy solutions to companies and communities. 


We are seeking a talented Microgrid Controls & Network Engineer to join our innovative team. The Microgrid Controls & Network Engineer will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing control systems for our renewable energy facilities, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. This position requires a strong background in communications protocols, PLCs, networks, control theory, programming, and renewable energy technologies.


What you get to do:

  • Project Execution and Management:
    • Lead the implementation of SCADA systems for microgrid projects, ensuring successful design, programming, and system configuration. Create detailed and simple documentation in Confluence.
    • Oversee project deliverables for controls and protection systems, managing system upgrades, enhancements, and troubleshooting during implementation. Track those deliverables in JIRA.
    • Ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget from design to O&M.
    • Collaborate with stakeholders to gather requirements and ensure technical solutions meet project goals and client expectations.
  • System Design & Configuration:
    • Design and implement control strategies for microgrid projects, including renewable integration and energy management optimization.
    • Configure and program SCADA software such as Ageto ARC, Tesla Opticaster, AlsoEnergy Powertrack, Ignition, Wonderware, WinCC to monitor and control microgrid assets.
    • Review diagrams for seamless integration of PLCs, computers, and network infrastructure based on CANBUS, MODBUS, TCP/IP based networks and more.
  • Architect of System Monitoring & Asset Management:
    • Specify and implement novel monitoring and asset management solution: configuring SCADA systems to track and upload microgrid performance, battery state of charge, and energy output data to proprietary cloud with contractor support.
    • Automate event logging uploading to SSH or FTP server.
    • Perform system diagnostics and troubleshooting, ensuring optimal uptime and quick resolution of technical issues.
    • Develop asset management protocols, including predictive maintenance strategies to ensure long-term reliability of microgrid systems.
  • Technical and Field Support:
    • Provide technical support to field personnel during the installation and commissioning phases, ensuring seamless system integration.
    • Lead Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) to validate system performance against project specifications.
    • Prepare technical documentation such as cable schedules, control enclosure layouts, and relay panel layouts for project execution.
  • SCADA and Controls Upgrades:
    • Implement upgrades and enhancements to SCADA and control systems, staying ahead of technological advancements.
    • Use programming languages such as Python and C# to automate system functions and optimize control logic.
    • Manage database systems such as SQL or MySQL for SCADA data storage and reporting.

Job requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Power Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering/Computer Science, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in control systems engineering, preferably in the renewable energy industry.

  • Strong knowledge of control theory, including feedback control, optimization, and system identification.

  • Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB, Simulink, Python, or C/C++. Experience in project management tools (Confluence and JIRA) would be a plus.

  • Experience with SCADA systems, PLC programming, and industrial automation platforms.

  • Familiarity with renewable energy technologies, including solar photovoltaics, and energy storage systems, fuel cells, CHP …etc. Microgrid experience preferred.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex technical issues.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines and departments.

  • Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

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