Energy Systems Optimization Analyst Postdoctoral Researcher

The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in electrical engineering or comparable disciplines for the Energy and Water Systems Analysis group. This postdoctoral researcher will focus on optimization and decision support analysis for hydropower, batteries, and other power system assets.

The candidate is expected to be a strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and work effectively both alone and as a team member. In addition to being able to efficiently execute work as directed by project managers and principal investigators, an excellent postdoctoral researcher will be creative, proactive, and adaptable. Bringing new perspectives will help our group propose innovative ideas, overcome barriers, and maximize the impact of our work. Additionally, demonstrating adaptability will enable the postdoctoral researcher to create impact in multiple research areas as funding and priorities change over time.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication and presenting research results at conferences and meetings, so strong communication skills are required.

Required:

• PhD in civil/mechanical/electrical engineering, mathematics, computer science, or other relevant disciplines.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English
• Experience using Python for optimization models.
• Familiarity with power system concepts like frequency response and resource adequacy

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience with artificial intelligence or machine learning.
• Practical experience working for a utility or independent system operator.
• Proposal writing experience.
• Previous work in the hydropower field.
• Experience with hydropower, water resources, or interactions between built and natural environments.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information:

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.