How to apply for Senior Power Systems Engineer - EMT Studies

About Electric Power Engineers

Electric Power Engineers (EPE) is a specialized consulting firm focused exclusively on power systems engineering, particularly in the areas of grid reliability, renewable integration, and electromagnetic transient studies. Their remote-first culture and emphasis on mentorship make them an attractive option for engineers seeking flexibility and technical growth.

About the role

This senior role focuses on conducting advanced EMT studies (e.g., subsynchronous resonance, control interactions, insulation coordination) using PSCAD and EMTP, while also performing steady-state studies and mentoring junior engineers. The work directly supports the integration of renewable energy and grid modernization, making it impactful for the sustainable energy transition.

A typical day

A typical day might involve running PSCAD simulations for a subsynchronous interaction study for a solar farm, reviewing results with a junior engineer to explain ferroresonance phenomena, and then joining a client call to discuss insulation coordination recommendations. You'll also spend time updating model libraries and benchmarking against PSSE steady-state cases.

Who Electric Power Engineers is looking for

• Has 4+ years of hands-on experience with EMT studies (e.g., subsynchronous resonance, ferroresonance, TRV) and is proficient in PSCAD, EMTP, or similar tools.
• Possesses a deep understanding of relevant IEEE/IEC/CIGRE standards and can apply them to real-world grid interconnection studies.
• Is comfortable leading projects, mentoring junior staff, and communicating complex technical findings to clients and stakeholders.
• Has experience with both EMT and steady-state studies (load flow, short circuit) and can bridge the gap between PSCAD and PSSE models.

Tips for this application

• Tailor your resume to highlight specific EMT study types mentioned in the job description (e.g., subsynchronous resonance, TOV, lightning) with project examples.
• Include a list of the exact software tools you've used (PSCAD, EMTP, PSSE, etc.) and your proficiency level (e.g., 'expert in PSCAD for EMT studies').
• Mention any experience with renewable generation (wind, solar) and battery storage modeling, as EPE focuses on grid modernization.
• In your cover letter, reference a recent EPE project or white paper (e.g., their work on inverter-based resource modeling) to show genuine interest.
• Prepare a portfolio of 1-2 past study reports or model benchmarking results you can share (if not confidential) to demonstrate technical depth.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Emphasize your hands-on experience with multiple EMT study types and your ability to lead complex studies from start to finish.', "Highlight your familiarity with industry standards (IEEE 1547, IEEE 519, IEC 60909) and how you've applied them in past projects.", 'Showcase your mentoring experience and your approach to teaching junior engineers about EMT phenomena and modeling best practices.', 'Express enthusiasm for remote work and self-directed project management, as the role is fully remote.']

Research before applying

• Review EPE's published case studies or technical articles on their website, particularly those related to renewable integration and EMT analysis.
• Look into their recent projects involving offshore wind or HVDC, as these often require advanced EMT studies.
• Understand their company culture around remote work and professional development (e.g., do they offer training or conference attendance?).
• Check LinkedIn for current employees in similar roles to understand typical career progression and team structure.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Describe a challenging EMT study you conducted (e.g., subsynchronous resonance) and how you resolved unexpected results.
• How do you approach model benchmarking between PSCAD and PSSE for a wind farm interconnection study?
• Explain the differences between TOV and SOV, and when each is critical in a study.
• Walk us through your process for mentoring a junior engineer on a harmonic study.
• How do you stay current with evolving IEEE/IEC standards related to EMT and grid interconnection?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Failing to differentiate between EMT and steady-state studies in your application—this role is primarily EMT-focused.
• Overstating proficiency in a tool you've only used briefly; be honest about your experience level.
• Not mentioning any experience with mentoring or leading projects, as this is a senior role requiring leadership.