Electricity Markets Modeler and Software Developer II/III

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory seeks an Electricity Markets Modeler and Software Developer II/III for the PSGS group in Golden, CO. The role involves developing energy system modeling techniques, collaborating on market operations, and engaging in cross-sectoral research. Candidates should have a relevant degree and experience in software development, particularly with Python or Julia. This position focuses on advancing tools for integrated energy systems and supporting a reliable energy transition.
About the position

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is seeking an Electricity Markets Modeler and Software Developer II/III to join the Price Signals for Grid Services (PSGS) group within the Grid Planning and Analysis Center (GPAC). This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about grid analysis and software development, and who want to contribute to the development and application of next-generation power systems planning tools. The PSGS group focuses on creating tools, data, and expertise to analyze future integrated energy systems, including both retail and bulk power system market and regulatory structures. As a member of the PSGS team, you will be involved in developing state-of-the-art energy system modeling techniques and simulations that support a reliable, affordable, and equitable energy transition. Your work will include applying these tools to conduct analyses across various fidelities, from in-depth engineering models to simplified representations for faster analysis. You will collaborate closely with other NREL research engineers to establish capabilities that integrate traditionally separate analyses, such as modeling advanced market operations, demand-side resources, and quantifying the impacts of various buildout paths on retail rates. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in engineering simulation and technoeconomic design for power system markets, along with collaborative programming experience in languages such as Python or Julia. You will also have the opportunity to engage in cross-sectoral research and collaborate with a diverse team of researchers, engineers, and software developers. This role offers a chance to push the boundaries of innovation in integrated analysis and computational tool development, contributing to high-impact research that informs policymakers and utilities about the future of the electric power system.

Responsibilities
• Develop and apply energy system modeling techniques and simulations for analyzing future energy systems.
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• Collaborate with NREL research engineers to integrate separate analyses related to market operations and demand-side resources.
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• Write user-oriented documentation and develop automated test suites for software tools.
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• Conduct analyses across various fidelities, including engineering models and simplified representations.
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• Engage in cross-sectoral research and collaborate with diverse teams on power sector modeling.
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• Contribute to the development of tools that support a reliable and equitable energy transition.

Requirements
• Relevant Master's Degree or Bachelor's Degree with 2+ years of experience for Researcher II; PhD or Master's Degree with 3+ years or Bachelor's Degree with 5+ years for Researcher III.
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• General knowledge of engineering technical standards, principles, and techniques.
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• Intermediate abilities in project management and team leadership.
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• Advanced proficiency in collaborative software development, particularly with Python, Julia, or similar languages.
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• Experience using GitHub in multi-developer teams and familiarity with software development best practices.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience in power systems modeling and analysis.
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• Coursework in optimization and economic modeling.
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• Familiarity with NREL's grid and DER data and tools.
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• Exposure to electric utility retail regulation and rate design.
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• Experience with demand response, demand flexibility, or virtual power plants.

Benefits
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
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• Short- and long-term disability insurance
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• Pension benefits
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• 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match
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• Life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
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• Personal time off (PTO) and sick leave
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• Paid holidays
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• Tuition reimbursement