How to apply for Senior Power Systems Engineer

About Electric Power Engineers

Electric Power Engineers (EPE) is a specialized consulting firm focused exclusively on power systems engineering, offering deep expertise in grid reliability and resiliency for a sustainable energy future. Their remote-first culture and emphasis on cutting-edge studies like Sub-synchronous Resonance make them a unique destination for engineers passionate about solving complex grid challenges.

About the role

As a Senior Power Systems Engineer, you will lead high-impact studies (load flow, short circuit, dynamic stability) using industry-standard tools like PSS/E and PSCAD, directly influencing grid reliability. You'll mentor junior engineers and contribute to business development, shaping the future of energy transmission and integration of renewable resources.

A typical day

A typical day might start with a team stand-up to review ongoing studies, then diving into PSS/E to run load flow cases for a generator interconnection study. You could spend the afternoon mentoring a junior engineer on dynamic stability modeling, followed by drafting a report section on mitigation recommendations for a transmission owner. The day ends with a call with a client to discuss study timelines and results.

Who Electric Power Engineers is looking for

• Has 5+ years of hands-on experience with bulk power system studies (steady state, dynamic stability, short circuit) using PSS/E, PSCAD, Aspen, and TARA.
• Possesses strong mentorship skills, with a track record of leading engineering teams and reviewing technical reports.
• Excels at communicating complex technical findings to non-technical stakeholders and writing clear, concise study reports.
• Holds a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering with a power systems emphasis; advanced degree or PE license is a plus.

Tips for this application

• 1. Tailor your resume to highlight specific projects involving PSS/E, PSCAD, Aspen, or TARA—quantify results (e.g., 'Reduced congestion by X% through dynamic stability analysis').
• 2. In your cover letter, mention experience with Sub-synchronous Resonance or other advanced studies, as this is a key differentiator for EPE.
• 3. Since the role is remote, emphasize your self-discipline, time management, and experience collaborating virtually with distributed teams.
• 4. Research EPE's recent projects (e.g., interconnection studies for renewables) and reference them in your application to show genuine interest.
• 5. Prepare a portfolio of study reports or summaries you've authored to demonstrate your report writing skills—upload as a supplemental document.

What to cover in your cover letter

["Highlight your technical proficiency with the specified software (PSS/E, PSCAD, Aspen, TARA) and provide examples of complex studies you've led.", "Emphasize your leadership and mentoring experience, showing how you've helped junior engineers grow.", "Express enthusiasm for contributing to grid reliability and the energy transition, aligning with EPE's mission.", 'Mention any experience with business development or process improvement, as these are part of the role.']

Research before applying

• Review EPE's website and recent case studies on renewable energy interconnection and grid modernization.
• Look up EPE's involvement in industry events or publications to understand their thought leadership.
• Check their LinkedIn page for employee profiles to gauge team culture and typical career progression.
• Familiarize yourself with any recent news about EPE's projects or partnerships in the power sector.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• 1. Describe a time you performed a dynamic stability study and how you interpreted the results to recommend mitigation actions.
• 2. Walk us through your experience with PSS/E and PSCAD—what version, and what specific analyses have you run?
• 3. How do you approach mentoring a junior engineer who is struggling with a power flow study?
• 4. Explain a scenario where you identified a system constraint and developed a mitigation plan. What was the outcome?
• 5. How do you stay updated with evolving grid standards (e.g., NERC, FERC) and incorporate them into your studies?

Common mistakes to avoid

• 1. Sending a generic application without mentioning EPE or the specific software requirements—personalization is key.
• 2. Overlooking the mentoring aspect; failing to demonstrate leadership experience can hurt your candidacy.
• 3. Not preparing to discuss remote work challenges—EPE is fully remote, so they'll expect you to address how you stay productive and collaborative.