Graduate; Summer Intern – Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis of Distribution Systems

Graduate (Summer) Intern – Modeling, Real-Time Simulation, and Analysis of Distribution Systems

Location: CO - Golden

Position Type: Intern (Fixed Term)

Hours Per Week: 40

Working at NLR: NLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado and is the nation's primary laboratory for energy systems research and development. Join NLR where world‑class scientists and engineers accelerate energy innovation through breakthrough research and systems integration. The mission is to advance an affordable and secure energy future. The research spans from foundational science to applied systems engineering and analysis, solving complex challenges to deliver advanced, secure, reliable, and cost‑effective energy solutions.

NLR offers robust professional development opportunities and a competitive benefits package.

This Grid Automation and Controls group at NLR focuses on research projects to improve power system operations. We develop cutting‑edge solutions and work closely with industry and utility partners to enhance grid reliability, resilience, and security. The internship is 3 months and requires a solid background in power system modeling, simulation, and analysis of distribution systems, including steady‑state and dynamic modeling.

• Develop steady‑state and dynamic models of distribution feeders in CYME, Milsoft Windmil, OpenDSS, and RSCAD.
• Develop protection schemes for active distribution networks.
• Conduct Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) experiments using real‑time models of distribution feeders and hardware devices.
• Analyze high‑resolution data from electromagnetic transient (EMT) models of distribution feeders using Python.
• Contribute to, or lead, the writing of research papers and collaborate closely with NLR researchers to deliver high‑impact work.

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Undergraduate:
  Full‑time student in a bachelor’s degree program.
• Post‑undergraduate:
  Earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 12 months; eligible for up to one year internship.
• Graduate:
  Full‑time student in a master’s degree program.
• Post‑graduate:
  Earned a master’s degree within the past 12 months; eligible for up to one year internship.
• Graduate + PhD:
  Completed master’s degree and enrolled as a PhD student.

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Master’s or PhD program in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems or related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge or experience in power system modeling, dynamics, and control.
• Experience in modeling, simulation, and analysis of distribution power systems.
• Proficiency in commercial power system simulation software such as OpenDSS, CYME, PSS/E, RSCAD or Simulink.
• Self‑motivated with good problem‑solving capability and ability to follow project timelines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience conducting power hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) and controller HIL experiments for distribution systems.
• Good programming skills in Python.
• Ability to work in a hybrid arrangement with weekly in‑person days over the summer; fully remote arrangements possible but not preferred.

Applications will be accepted for up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match; and sick leave (where required by law). Internships < 20 hours per week are not eligible for medical, dental, or vision benefits.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, national origin/ancestry, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, or any other protected status.

Contact NLR for assistance with reasonable accommodations.

Interns must obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card and pass a background investigation as required for DOE access. Interns assigned beyond six months must meet this requirement.

NLR is committed to maintaining a drug‑free workplace in accordance with federal law. A pre‑employment drug test is required; if the test is positive for marijuana, the offer may be withdrawn.

Submit an application form for each position, including a cover letter and resume. Applications are not kept on file for future positions.

Annual Salary Range (full‑time 40 hours): $44,500 - $71,200.