Renewable Energy & Smart Grid Lab Manager

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., a Fortune 500 manufacturer of industrial gases, has an immediate opening for a Renewable Energy & Smart Grid Lab Manager to be based out of our Allentown, PA. Air Products is a world-leading Industrial Gases company having both process gas applications and gasification technology that has been in operation for over 75 years.

We have multiple product lines, over 750 production facilities in over 50 countries, and serve over 30 different industries, crafting broad opportunities for growth and development. And, we are growing! We pride ourselves on being an innovative technology company that furthers an environment of partnership and inclusion. We need and seek out people who are dedicated and driven to build the future. People with passion and dedication to get it right and a never-ending desire to innovate, learn, improve and supply. Sound like you? Are you someone who is creative, detail oriented and able to organize multiple priorities within a lively environment? We have the opportunity for you!

Position summary

Air Products implements solutions to help meet the world’s most significant energy and environmental sustainability challenges. As a leader in developing hydrogen for energy projects, the Company is currently driving the first commercial-scale, carbon-free hydrogen project -- NEOM HELIOS in Saudi Arabia. With the growing momentum and interest in green hydrogen and decarbonization, Air Products expects to demonstrate its capabilities into more renewable energy projects around the world focused on the production of green hydrogen or green ammonia. The “Renewable Energy & Smart Grid Lab Manager” will play a vital role supporting the growth of the CoE and assisting throughout all phases of green hydrogen projects, development, concept design, detailed design, commissioning and operations. They should be able to model (mimic) different power systems & renewable components.

The candidate will play a critical role in providing technical expertise to support decisions on the new development of projects and identifying potential risks for on-going projects. In addition, they will recommend and test proper mitigation actions. They will also support with selection, sizing and optimizing of all related power components to ensure the reliable integration of renewable energy sources to the green hydrogen facilities. The incumbent is encouraged to be recognized internally and externally as an authority in power systems modeling & simulation through the employment of Real Time Simulator (RTS) and HIL. They will possess a deep understanding of modeling different power conversion components. They will also have a proven track record of mega-scale renewable and energy storage projects. The Candidate will be responsible for ensuring competitiveness, successful asset creation, productive internal and external interfaces, risk management, and building capability and expertise to support growth projects.

Dimensions

Have a thorough knowledge of modelling & simulation of all power systems components using different simulation software and Real Time Simulator (RTS). The candidate must possess both excellent analytical and leadership skills. They will need to have the knowledge, experience, and ability to employ the analytical skills to optimize both projects CAPEX and OPEX and to influence partners with findings. Ability to work in a global, fast-paced, and increasingly metric-driven environment and deliver against exciting performance targets. Monitor, communicate and respond to changing market conditions and business drivers to increase leverage and minimize risk. Maintain a safe work environment and support corporate and organizational safety goals in the office and with suppliers.

Principal accountabilities

As a valuable and critical member of the Renewable Energy Center of Excellence, you will Plan, verify, conduct, and coordinate system studies and analysis, including integration of renewables and energy storage systems using RTS & HIL. Demonstrate technical leadership on modelling, simulation, and analysis of various power applications, including renewable grid integration, electrolyzers, energy storage and VAR compensation. Verify and develop system models for simulation of different power systems components and conduct independent studies and research encompassing advanced analytical techniques and be able to work and coordinate with other teams. Develop and maintain knowledge of different grid codes, standards, and regulations such that cost effective, legally compliant designs can be produced. Train future operators on RTS systems. Serve as a technical lead and advisor for business development, modelling, technology, engineering, and project management teams. Verify third party models and technical reports. Prepare high-quality technical reports and presentations supporting the findings of the system studies/simulations. Collaborate with internal and external partners on technical matters. Manage and train teams & individuals.

Critical Competencies

Experience in complex renewable energy and energy storage projects. Strong technical, analytical, modelling & simulation techniques. Proficient in RTS & HIL modelling, simulations, and testing. Proficient in RSCAD and at least other two standard Power System Modelling Software suites (i.e., PSS/E, DIgSILENT, ETAP, NEPLAN, …) Strong understating of all related standards and regulations. Ability to design and analyze results to ensure high operational reliability. Ability to architect/mimic the operational logic of the power systems. Must be able to discuss technical issues for different power conversion components. Must be able to discuss commissioning plans and chair technical discussions for different power system components. Strong influencing, and communication (written and verbal) skills including cross cultures and geographies. Innovative problem solver, with a passion for solving sustainability challenges. Highly collaborative individual with experience in working in a central, functional team.

Preferred qualifications

MSc in Electrical Engineering field (advanced degree, preferred). Minimum of 15 years of experience in performing system studies and modelling using RTS & HIL. Experience in renewable energy integration, energy storage and related emerging technologies. International Experience. We are the world’s largest hydrogen producer with over 80 years of industrial gas experience. We are hydrogen experts delivering safe, end-to-end solutions, investing in real, clean energy projects at scale, and driving the industry forward to generate a cleaner future. At Air Products, we work in an environment where we put safety first, diversity is essential, inclusion is our culture, and each person knows they belong and matter. To learn more, visit https://www.airproducts.com/company We offer a comprehensive benefits package including paid holidays and vacation, affordable medical, dental, life insurance and retirement plans. You will be eligible for benefits and also be 100% vested in your retirement benefits on your first day of employment.