🔍 Job Summary Table of Power Systems Engineer

⚡ Power Systems Engineer: Shaping the Future of Energy Innovation

Job Description Summary

The Power Networks Demonstration Centre (PNDC) at the University of Strathclyde is seeking an experienced Research and Development Engineer specializing in Power Systems and Protection to join their innovative team. This fixed-term position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research that is actively shaping the energy transition in the UK and beyond.

Power Systems Engineer Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test protection schemes that enable secure and resilient electricity supply networks
• Conduct complex power system modeling and perform detailed power system studies to advance innovation in energy systems
• Deliver research and development projects in collaboration with industry partners or within industrial contexts
• Generate new ideas and concepts to address challenges in power systems and protection technology
• Plan, conduct, and coordinate research and knowledge exchange activities with minimal supervision
• Produce high-quality technical documentation and research reports
• Communicate complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders including industry partners, academic colleagues, and potential funders
• Contribute to the ongoing innovation work across PNDC’s three main focus areas: Advancement of Power Networks, Decarbonisation of Heat, and Decarbonisation of Transport

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary range of £37,174 – £45,413 per annum
• Opportunity to work at a world-class innovation facility unique in Europe
• Collaboration with global organizations at the forefront of energy transition
• Supportive, dynamic, and flexible team environment
• Potential to see your research deployed in real-world applications
• Association with the prestigious University of Strathclyde while working in an industry-facing center
• Chance to contribute directly to reduced consumer costs, increased reliability of supply, and global sustainability efforts

Company Overview

The Power Networks Demonstration Centre (PNDC) is one of the University of Strathclyde’s industry-facing innovation centers, established in 2013. It provides a world-class whole energy systems innovation, test, and demonstration environment across multiple locations. PNDC is uniquely positioned in Europe, attracting global partnerships to accelerate innovation deployment across the entire energy system.

PNDC continues to evolve its facilities in Cumbernauld while supporting innovation in power networks and accelerating the decarbonization of heat and transport. With over £20 million investment in new capabilities, PNDC is expanding its testing facilities to address the most pressing challenges in energy transition.

PNDC Innovation Focus Areas

Advancement of Power Networks

The Power Networks focus area concentrates on accelerating and de-risking innovations that support major changes in electricity generation and demand characteristics resulting from the net zero transition. Key emphasis is placed on solutions that increase power system robustness and security, support the digital transformation of the power network sector, and facilitate greater flexibility and participation of demand-side innovations in the energy transition.

Decarbonisation of Heat

This innovation stream focuses on accelerating and de-risking novel low-carbon heating solutions at both large scale (zero-carbon CHP, district heating schemes, hydrogen-for-heating) and smaller domestic/commercial scale (heat pumps, hydrogen boilers, solar thermal). Special attention is given to integrating these technologies into the wider energy system, their control and scheduling, and how consumer behavior impacts technology deployment.

Decarbonisation of Transport

The transport innovation focus area works on accelerating low-carbon transport systems across land, marine, and aero sectors. This covers innovations in vehicle charging infrastructure and onboard systems, with particular emphasis on new electric drivetrains and power systems, including fuel cells, batteries, and power electronic machine and drive components.

Company Culture

PNDC offers a dynamic, flexible, and collaborative team environment where colleagues support each other through constructive challenge and practical assistance. The team is energized by seeing their development work deployed in real-world applications that reduce costs to consumers, increase supply reliability, and enhance global sustainability. While part of the University of Strathclyde, PNDC functions as an off-campus, industry-facing facility that bridges academic research and practical implementation.

Career Growth Opportunities

Working at PNDC provides exceptional opportunities to develop expertise at the cutting edge of energy innovation. As part of the University of Strathclyde while maintaining strong industry connections, engineers at PNDC gain valuable experience in both academic research and commercial application. The diverse project portfolio and collaborative environment foster both technical and professional growth.

Power Systems Professionals: Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Strathclyde is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background, gender, race, religion, or nationality. The institution values diversity and seeks to create an inclusive environment where all talent can thrive.

Remote Work Policy

This position is based at the PNDC facility near Cumbernauld, Scotland. While part of the University of Strathclyde, PNDC operates as an off-campus, industry-facing center where hands-on work with specialized equipment is essential. The position requires on-site presence to engage with the testing facilities and collaborate effectively with the team.

Application Process

1. Review the complete job description and requirements
2. Prepare your application materials highlighting relevant experience in power system modeling and protection schemes
3. Submit your application through the official University of Strathclyde vacancies portal
4. If shortlisted, participate in the interview process to demonstrate your expertise and fit for the role

Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted by 22 April 2025.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the University of Strathclyde’s vacancy portal. For informal enquiries about the position, contact Ibrahim Abdulhadi, Lead R&D Engineer (Ibrahim.f.abdulhadi@strath.ac.uk). Previous applicants need not apply.

Power Systems Engineering: Additional Information

The successful candidate will join a team at the forefront of power systems innovation during a critical period of energy transition. With significant investment in new facilities and capabilities, PNDC provides a unique environment to develop and test solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in energy systems. The role offers the opportunity to work on projects with tangible impact, accelerating the path to net zero while ensuring security and resilience of supply.

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