Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior SCADA Controls Systems Engineer - Battery Storage

at Plus Power

๐Ÿข About Plus Power

Plus Power is at the forefront of the renewable energy transition, specializing in utility-scale battery energy storage systems that enable a more resilient and sustainable grid. Their remote-first culture and focus on cutting-edge technology make them an exciting place for engineers who want to directly impact the clean energy revolution.

About This Role

As a Senior SCADA Controls Engineer, you will design and implement the control system infrastructure for large-scale battery storage plants, ensuring seamless integration with the grid. Your work will directly support critical use cases like frequency regulation and black start, making you a key player in stabilizing renewable energy.

๐Ÿ’ก A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a stand-up meeting with the remote controls team to discuss commissioning progress. You'll then dive into programming an RTU for a new plant, troubleshoot a DNP3 communication issue via VPN, and later review technical documentation for a PPC upgrade. Afternoons often involve integration testing with field engineers or collaborating on network upgrade plans.

๐ŸŽฏ Who Plus Power Is Looking For

  • Has 6+ years of SCADA/controls experience, with deep expertise in Inductive Automation Ignition, Schneider Modicon, or SEL RTACs.
  • Understands battery energy storage use cases (PFR, FFR, black start) and can program PPC, HMI, and RTU systems.
  • Is proficient in industrial protocols like DNP3.0, Modbus, OPC-UA, and MQTT, and can troubleshoot complex OT/control system issues.
  • Holds a BS in Electrical Engineering (preferred) and has experience commissioning utility-scale renewable energy plants.

๐Ÿ“ Tips for Applying to Plus Power

1

Highlight specific battery storage projects you've worked on, detailing the SCADA platforms and protocols used.

2

Quantify your impact: e.g., 'Reduced system downtime by 20% through improved RTU programming.'

3

Mention experience with black start or grid-forming inverters, as these are key for Plus Power's use cases.

4

Tailor your resume to emphasize remote collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Jira) since the role is remote.

5

Include a link to your GitHub or portfolio if you have open-source SCADA projects or technical writing samples.

โœ‰๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Express passion for renewable energy and grid stability, specifically battery storage.', 'Detail your hands-on experience with the exact platforms mentioned (Ignition, Modicon, SEL RTACs).', "Explain how you've solved complex OT issues in previous roles, emphasizing your systematic approach.", 'Show enthusiasm for remote work and ability to self-manage while collaborating across time zones.']

Generate Cover Letter โ†’

๐Ÿ” Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • โ†’ Review Plus Power's project portfolio to understand the scale and locations of their storage plants.
  • โ†’ Read their blog or press releases about recent grid interconnection successes or innovations.
  • โ†’ Familiarize yourself with their technology stack by checking job descriptions for related roles.
  • โ†’ Look into their company culture on Glassdoor or LinkedIn to see how they support remote employees.

๐Ÿ’ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a SCADA system you designed from scratch for a battery storage plant.
2 How do you handle communication failures between PPC and RTU during commissioning?
3 Describe your experience with DNP3.0 secure authentication and how you've implemented it.
4 Explain how you would test a black start sequence for a 100 MW battery system.
5 How do you stay updated on evolving industrial protocols and cybersecurity standards?
Practice Interview Questions โ†’

โš ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't list generic SCADA experience without mentioning battery storage or renewable energy specifics.
  • Avoid vague statements like 'familiar with protocols'โ€”instead, specify which ones and your proficiency level.
  • Don't overlook cybersecurity; emphasize your knowledge of OT security best practices and standards like NERC CIP.

๐Ÿ“… Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

โœ“

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Plus Power!