Lab Technician or Engineer - DC Microgrid

Overview

Our electrical infrastructure sits at an inflection point, soon to be overwhelmed by rapidly increasing demand and aging, vulnerable infrastructure. Energy costs will continue to rise and outages will become more frequent unless we rapidly transition from our current centrally managed model, to a decentralized and intelligent grid.

DEP’s mission is to make clean, resilient, and renewable energy systems accessible to everyone by developing intelligent software that automates the design and deployment of ultra-efficient decentralized micro grids. The future of energy is decentralized and we're building the team that will make it a reality.

Job Description

We are seeking a skilled and motivated DC Microgrid Lab Technician and/or Engineer to join our project engineering team in Charlotte, NC in our DC Microgrid Lab (a hub of innovation and development of advanced energy technologies).  As a DC Microgrid Lab Technician/Engineer, you will play a crucial hands-on role in the testing, operating and maintaining, evaluating microgrid component performance, and aiding the development and integration of components into our DC microgrid systems. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in the field of renewable energy and power distribution.

Responsibilities

• Microgrid Testing: Conduct a variety of experiments and tests on DC microgrid systems to assess their performance, efficiency, and reliability.

• Equipment Setup and Maintenance: Install, operate, and maintain DC Microgrid laboratory equipment, including inverters, batteries, solar panels, and DC power sources, ensuring they are in optimal working condition.

• Data Collection and Analysis: Monitor and collect data during microgrid testing, analyze results, and prepare detailed reports to provide valuable insights for research and development efforts.

• Troubleshooting: Identify and diagnose issues or malfunctions in the microgrid systems and work with engineers to develop and implement solutions.

• Safety Compliance: Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines while working in the lab to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and colleagues.

• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of experiments, procedures, and equipment maintenance activities, ensuring that all data is well-organized and easily accessible.

• Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, researchers, and project managers, to support the development and improvement of DC microgrid systems.

• Inventory Management: Assist in the procurement and management of lab supplies and equipment, ensuring that the lab is well-stocked and organized.
  
  

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent with minimum of 5 years’ experience; associate's degree or technical certification in electrical engineering, renewable energy, or a related field preferred.  Bachelor's degree preferred.  

• Prior experience working in a laboratory setting, especially in the field of renewable energy or power systems, is a plus.

• Strong understanding of electrical circuits, components, and instrumentation.

• Proficiency in the use of laboratory equipment and tools, including oscilloscopes, multimeters, and data acquisition systems.

• Basic knowledge of DC microgrid systems, renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind), and energy storage technologies (e.g., batteries).

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot electrical issues.

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and documentation skills.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Commitment to safety and adherence to safety protocols.

• Experience with electrical schematic generation and controller programming preferred.

• Residing in Charlotte, NC area or willing to relocate within driving distance to lab.

• Ability to lift and move laboratory equipment and materials (up to 50 pounds).

• Comfortable working in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to electrical hazards.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Excellent Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible work hours with the requirement of being locally based in Charlotte, NC
• Highly dynamic and collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology and make a meaningful impact

Location

This role is based in Charlotte, NC. DEP embraces flexible working arrangements, offering a mix of office-based and remote work.