Senior HVDC System Engineer - Real Time Simulations

Role Overview: This role will focus on operating real-time simulation equipment such as RTDS NovaCor hardware and utilizing RSCAD software to conduct testing and system studies for HVDC substations and related equipment. The successful candidate will be responsible for simulating and testing substations that connect to HVDC interconnectors for global projects, contributing to both system studies and on-site commissioning preparation.

 

Key Responsibilities:

Operation of Real-Time Simulation Systems:

• Operate and manage RTDS simulation equipment to support testing of HVDC substations.
• Translate PSCAD models into RSCAD models for real-time testing purposes.
• Simulate and test substation equipment, including circuit breakers and control systems, for integration with HVDC networks.

System Studies and Testing:

• Conduct system studies and simulations for the first 4-6 months of the project, followed by 12 months of running tests in the lab for various network configurations.
• Collaborate with a team of engineers in the HV laboratory to test and simulate faults, such as overvoltage, lightning strikes, and grid connection failures, ensuring correct configuration of the equipment.

Project Delivery & Integration:

• As a key member of the Control & Protection team, participate in the delivery of three parallel HVDC projects across the French, US, and UK markets.
• Work closely with the Local Integration Test Manager to ensure seamless execution of over 1,000 tests, from laboratory simulations to on-site commissioning.

Lab & Test Field Operations:

• Operate in the HV laboratory, working with high-voltage generators, insulators, and control cubicles to simulate real-world electrical conditions.
• Monitor and measure outcomes of voltage and current injections into the systems, reporting results using GitHub for tracking and bug identification.
• Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Pre-FAT processes for global projects.

 

Project Details:

Project Timeline:

• Each project runs for approximately 24 months from engineering through testing, with around 40 months dedicated to full project completion.

Lab Environment:

• The Manchester lab has been operational for 2 years and includes high-voltage testing facilities designed to simulate real-world electrical faults and system behaviour.

Global Scope:

• Delivering three projects simultaneously with a total value of €500 million as part of larger projects worth €4-5 billion globally.

 

Work Environment:

Lab-Based Role:

• Primarily based in the Manchester facility, with flexibility for start and end times to accommodate project needs.

Testing Schedule:

• Early stages involve approximately one test per day, scaling up to 30-40 tests per day during Pre-FAT phases.

 

Qualifications and Experience:

Technical Expertise:

• Hands-on experience with RTDS NovaCor hardware and RSCAD software is essential.
• Previous experience in HVDC simulation or testing is preferred but not required.
• Candidates with experience in real-time simulation from related industries, such as automotive, gas turbines, or control systems

Project Experience:

• Previous experience in a testing environment, particularly in high-voltage laboratories or OEMs.
• Ability to evaluate and benchmark projects against industry best practices, ensuring adherence to construction timelines and test protocols.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Strong collaboration skills, working closely with commissioning engineers and test managers to ensure the smooth transition of equipment from lab testing to field commissioning.
• Experience in reporting and tracking issues through software tools like GitHub.