What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Power Systems Engineer position at SPOC Automation?
Position Summary
SPOC Grid Inverter Technologies is pioneering hybrid power, electrification, and DC grid systems. We are seeking a Senior Power Systems Engineer to lead the end-to-end power system design from proposal through system delivery.
The Senior Power Systems Engineer will act as the primary point of contact for power system design activities, including solution architecture (SLD), equipment selection and rating, system studies (short-circuit, protection-coordination, arc flash, etc.), system integration and support for commissioning/ testing activities.
Key Responsibilities
· Architect solutions and provide single line diagrams for AC, DC, and hybrid systems (gensets, BESS, shore/grid tie, propulsion motors).
· Specify equipment for solutions (e.g., VFDs/AFEs/grid-forming inverters), switchboards/switchgear, transformers, UPS, protection relays, metering, and EMS/PMS controls.
· Write procurement specifications, evaluate vendor bids, and support design reviews with suppliers and customers.
· Lead power system studies: load flow, short-circuit, protection coordination/relay settings, arc-flash, harmonic/filter design, motor starting, transient stability, grounding (HRG/IT), and selective coordination.
· Develop protection & control philosophies (ANSI/IEC functions, relay logic, interlocks, trip curves) and author setting files and test plans.
· Ensure compliance with applicable standards (e.g., IEEE/IEC, NEC/NFPA 70E, UL/CSA; marine: ABS/DNV/USCG).
· Responsible for deliverables: SLDs, cable schedules, I/O lists, bill of materials, study reports, test procedures, ops/maintenance docs, etc.
· Mentor engineers; review calculations, drawings, and firmware/parameter sets for quality and safety.
· Support proposals: scope, risk, assumptions, and engineering estimates.
· Serve as the technical subject matter expert (SME) for Power Systems
· Provide input for project updates, milestones, and schedule.
· Monitor risks and implement mitigation strategies to keep projects on track.
· Support installation, commissioning, and sea trials, ensuring technical and contractual requirements are met.
· Provide technical leadership in maintaining SPOC’s reputation for quality, safety, and on-time delivery.
Qualifications
Education & Expertise
· B.S. in Electrical Engineering (Power) or related; 8–12 years in power systems design/analysis, protection, and commissioning or 10 Years experience in Marine with focus on Electric Power and Propulsion Systems
· Experience with modeling/ simulation tools (SKM, ETAP, etc.) for studies; strong relay setting/coordination experience (e.g., SEL, ABB, GE, Siemens, Stucke).
· Experience with VFDs/AFEs/inverters and power-electronics integration
· Proven experience generating SLDs/schematics and writing specifications and test plans.
· Understanding of grounding methods (solid, HRG, IT), short-circuit behavior, arc-flash mitigation, harmonics and EMC.
· Working knowledge of PLC/SCADA/PMS/EMS integration and common protocols (Modbus, TCP/IP, Profibus, etc.).
· Strong field/commissioning skills: instrumentation, phasing, relay testing, and safe energization practices.
· Excellent technical writing, customer communication, and cross-functional leadership.
· Familiarity with VFDs, switchgear, hybrid power systems, marine propulsion systems, automation control systems, and Dynamic Positioning.
· Ability to read and interpret electrical one-line diagrams, schematics, and class approval documents.
· Knowledge of marine standards: ABS, DNV, USCG, IEEE, IEC.
Soft Skills
· Adheres to SPOC’s Lift Up Culture.
· Excellent communication and collaboration with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
· Strong organizational skill and attention to detail.
· Ability to work effectively with teams in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
· Commitment to quality and reliability.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION / EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Please advise us of any reasonable accommodation you may need in completing our application process.