What are the responsibilities and job description for the Renewable Energy Automation Engineer position at Nidec Conversion?
Job Title: Renewable Energy Automation Engineer, BESS
Department: Power Systems & Products Application Engineering
Reports directly to: Controls Team Manager
FLSA Status – Exempt
Location: Cleveland, Ohio preferred, but will consider Remote/Hybrid
**MUST HAVE 7 YEARS EXPERIENCE**
Nidec Industrial Solutions:
Nidec Industrial Solutions [NIS] is a $400M Business Unit of Nidec Corporation, a $13 Billion global company focused on motors, drives, and controls. NIS is headquartered in Milan, Italy with footprint in 10 countries and growing. Our US operations are based in Cleveland, OH. NIS Americas activities span a range of business models including products manufacturing, system engineering and automation, installation, and services. Our customers and applications are in O&G, Mining, Renewable Energy & Storage, Metals manufacturing, Pulp & Paper, Marine, Material Handling, Power Generation, and other diverse sectors.
Position Summary:
The Renewable Energy Automation Engineer for BESS, NIS – Americas will assist in
- Develop Power Management System for Energy Storage System this includes
- Design and develop control systems for battery energy storage systems (BESS).
- Architect and implement EMS components including power plant controllers, SCADA systems, historians, and simulation models.
- Configure SCADA systems including data server/client maps, HMI interfaces, alarm management, and user access controls.
- Interpret and refine product and project requirements into actionable engineering solutions within the SCADA and EMS platforms.
- Develop and maintain design, solution, and component specifications to support both development and operations teams.
- Support installation, commissioning, and operational troubleshooting across EMS deployments.
- Develop specifications and execute testing and validation procedures for EMS integration at battery power plants.
- Build and validate dynamic simulation models using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, and others.
- Investigate control algorithm corner cases through simulation and verify performance using HIL test setups.
- Collaborate with firmware/software, compliance, and product teams to define and implement new control behaviors.
- Review and coordinate technical documentation and designs from suppliers and contractors.
- Improve development processes and procedures to enhance product quality and delivery efficiency.
- Ensure system cybersecurity, reliability, and compliance with industry standards.
- Administer network infrastructure including VMware (v8.0), Windows Server (2022), and Identity and Access Management (IAM).
- Perform system backup, recovery procedures, and asset management duties.
- Assist production support teams with controls and SCADA-related issues.
- Document and present control designs and system architecture to gain organizational alignment.
- Train project and service teams on control concepts, system operation, and troubleshooting.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of applicable codes, standards, certifications, and technologies in the energy storage and automation industries.
Skills:
- Strong understanding of energy storage systems, battery technologies, inverters, transformers, and power flow.
- Proficiency in IEC 61131-3 structured text programming (e.g., TIA Portal, ISaGraph, CODESYS, AcSELerator RTAC).
- Experience with SCADA system design and HMI development.
- Skilled in simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, EMTP, PowerFactory, PSSE, PLECS, and PSIM.
- Knowledge of industrial communication protocols including Modbus TCP, DNP3, OPC-UA, MQTT, IEC 61850, and SEL FMP.
- Experience with VMware 8.0, Windows Server 2022, Microsoft Azure, Active Directory, and Fortinet FortiGate firewall configuration.
- Familiarity with cybersecurity standards and certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security , NERC CIP).
- Proficient in HIL/SIL testing environments and EMS integration validation at battery power plants.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and documentation; strong problem-solving and communication skills.
- Comfortable with tools and platforms such as OSIsoft PI, Python, C/C , Linux, MS Excel, Citrix, and managed network infrastructure.
Education/License Requirements
- BSEE or MSEE preferred
- PE License preferred
Experience Requirements
- Minimum 7 years of experience in automation design in utility scale renewable energies EPC projects.
The position will be required domestic and international travel (about 20%).