Principal Performance Engineer

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that's leading the charge in the global energy revolution. With operations spanning

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, AES is committed to shaping a future through innovation and collaboration. Our dedication to innovation has earned us recognition as one of the

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in renewable energy sales to corporations, and with

$12.7B in revenues in 2023

, we have the resources and expertise to make a significant impact as we provide electricity to

25 million customers worldwide.

As the world moves towards a net-zero future, AES is committed to meeting the Paris Agreement's goals by 2050. Our innovative solutions, such as

24/7 carbon-free energy

for data centers, are setting the pace for rapid, global decarbonization.

If you're ready to be part of a company that's not just adapting to change, but driving it, AES is the place for you. We're not just building a cleaner, more sustainable future - we're powering it. Apply now and energize your career with a true leader in the global energy transformation.

AES Clean Energy

is seeking an experienced Principal Performance Engineer to support engineering, construction and operations teams by analyzing the performance characteristics of photovoltaic and battery storage projects in construction, commissioning and operation.

They will be responsible for bridging the gap between projects in construction, and projects in long-term operation by analyzing production data, identifying commissioning problems such as failed sensors or incorrect SCADA calculations, running standard performance tests such as ASTM E2848, battery capacity testing and assisting the operations team in troubleshooting.

The successful candidate will have a depth of experience in the operation and analysis of photovoltaic and energy storage systems, including a thorough understanding of photovoltaic plant physics, Li-ion electrochemistry, interconnection standards, SCADA and networking systems. Experience with PV systems and battery systems ranging from 5 MW to 600 MW is preferable.

While performance analysis is the primary qualification, the role will require the review of information related to all practical elements of photovoltaic and battery system design. The successful applicant, while not an expert, will be comfortable with high-level review of all elements of practical system design.

The position is in Louisville, CO, and may include up to 30% travel to project locations and partner offices.

Key Responsibilities

Project Execution and Operation:

- Test newly commissioned SCADA systems for completeness and accuracy

- Perform “big data” analysis to identify major sources of project underperformance

- Perform or review capacity and performance tests for projects in construction (PV, BESS & PV + BESS)

- Seek and evaluate proposals for analysis services and consultants where needed

- Troubleshoot systems in operation and review system performance data to identify performance problems

- Work closely with project and field engineers to manage project timelines

Project Development:

- Review production estimates and meteorological data sources for accuracy by comparing to operational systems

- Review contracts to understand requirements of performance testing

Engineering Support:

- Collaborate with operations team to troubleshoot existing projects and develop repair and remediation plans

- Design solutions for repairs and modifications to systems, and “close the gap” between various AES subcontractors and vendors where needed

Growth and Leadership:

- Improve and develop processes for the execution of safe, quality and high-performance projects

- Mentor and educate team on changing trends in technology, best practices and safety

- Participate in AES growth planning process by contributing to process improvement task forces and other strategic planning activities

Skills And Qualifications

Primary Qualifications:

- Undergraduate degree in Engineering or equivalent technical field

- 10+ years professional experience in performance engineering and testing of complex generation systems, preferably PV + BESS

- Experience with advanced Excel or “beyond Excel” data analysis systems such as scientific python, SAS, R, Julia, Domino Datalab or comparable solutions for analysis of complex and large datasets

- Proficiency with SCADA systems (Isotrol Bluence/EtaPRO/OSI PI/Ignition) , network design and advanced analysis tools

- Possess or be able to obtain a valid TWIC card within the first 90 days of employment.

- Field experience on photovoltaic or battery storage projects, including troubleshooting, quality evaluation, and construction support

- Excellent communication, task management and planning skills needed, in addition to technical breadth.

- Demonstrated ability to approach problems with curiosity and a desire to understand root causes.

- Proven track record of acting with urgency and ownership in fast-paced, high-impact environments.

“Plus” Qualifications:

- PE qualifications, or on track to become qualified

- Master’s/Ph.D. degrees in engineering

- +5 years of experience with PV and Battery Energy Storage System design and interconnection

- Spanish language skills

- OSHA 10-hr or comparable job-site safety certification

- Ability to work on different U.S. time zones

- Experience with development of ML/AI algorithms for underperformance detection

AES is an Equal Opportunity Employer who is committed to building strength and delivering long-term sustainability through diversity and inclusion. Respecting all backgrounds, differences and perspectives enables us to improve the lives of our people, customers, suppliers, contractors, and the communities in which we live and work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or expression, race, national origin, ethnicity, age, religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. E-Verify Notice: AES will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's I-9 to confirm work authorization.

The expected salary for this position, at commencement of employment, is between $139,000 and $174,250/Annual; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements such as annual bonus, in addition to a full range of medical, dental, vision, life, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.