ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Postdoc Power Systems Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Colorado

PostDoctoral Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our research ... Candidates with strong backgrounds in power systems, optimization, machine learning, operations ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Analyzing a DER configuration relative to a conventional separate heat and power (SHP ... For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.) CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME ...

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS The Department of Electrical Engineering is looking for a Postdoctoral Scholar ... D. in power systems or a closely related field is required by the start date. The successful ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsPostdoc Power Systems Jobs

Postdoc Power Systems information

See salary details

$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do postdoc power systems jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc power systems in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoc in Power Systems, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoc in Power Systems, you need a PhD in electrical engineering or a related field, with strong expertise in power system modeling, analysis, and research methodologies. Proficiency with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, or PowerWorld, as well as programming languages like Python or C++, is typically required. Exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong written and verbal communication skills help you stand out in collaborative research environments. These competencies are essential for advancing innovative solutions, publishing impactful research, and contributing effectively to academic or industrial projects in the evolving field of power systems.

What are some common challenges faced by postdocs working in power systems research, and how can they be addressed?

Postdoctoral researchers in power systems often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, keeping up with rapidly advancing technologies, and managing the expectations for publishing high-impact papers. Navigating interdisciplinary collaborations with engineers, data scientists, and industry partners can also require strong communication skills. To address these challenges, it's helpful to proactively seek mentorship, participate in regular team meetings to stay aligned on project goals, and allocate dedicated time for both research and professional development.

What are Postdoc Power Systems?

Postdoc Power Systems refers to postdoctoral research positions focused on power systems engineering and related fields. These roles typically involve advanced research on the generation, transmission, distribution, and optimization of electrical power systems, often addressing challenges such as grid integration of renewable energy, smart grids, and system reliability. Postdoctoral researchers in this area work in academic, government, or industry settings, collaborating on projects, publishing research, and sometimes mentoring students. The role is ideal for those seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute to innovations in power systems before pursuing faculty or industry positions.

What is the difference between Postdoc Power Systems vs Power Systems Engineer?

AspectPostdoc Power SystemsPower Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Electrical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, often with professional licensure
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsUtility companies, consulting firms, industry projects
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research organizationsPower generation, transmission, distribution companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentResearch roles, academic positionsIndustry roles, engineering positions

Postdoc Power Systems typically involves research and academic work with a PhD, focusing on advancing power systems knowledge. Power Systems Engineers work in industry, applying engineering principles to design, operate, and maintain power systems. While both roles require electrical engineering expertise, Postdocs are research-focused, whereas Power Systems Engineers are industry-focused.

Infographic showing various Postdoc Power Systems job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher: Power System Operation and Optimization

Nrel

Golden, CO • On-site

$76K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Posting TitlePostdoctoral Researcher: Power System Operation and Optimization

.

LocationCO - Golden

.

Position TypePostdoc (Fixed Term)

.

Hours Per Week40

.

Working at NLRNLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado is the nation's primary laboratory for energy systems research and development.

Join the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), where world-class scientists, engineers, and experts are accelerating energy innovation through breakthrough research and systems integration. From our mission to our collaborative culture, NLR stands out in the research community for its commitment to an affordable and secure energy future. Spanning foundational science to applied systems engineering and analysis, we focus on solving complex challenges to deliver advanced, secure, reliable, and cost-effective energy solutions. Our work helps strengthen U.S. industries, support job creation, and promote national economic growth.

At NLR, you'll find a mission-driven environment supported by state-of-the-art facilities, multidisciplinary research teams, and strong collaborations with industry, academia, and other national laboratories. We offer robust professional development opportunities, and a competitive benefits package designed to support your career and well-being.

Job Description

The Grid Automation and Controls Group of the Power Systems and Engineering Center (PSEC) at the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) is looking for an exceptional Ph.D. graduate to support research in power grid operation and optimization.

We are looking for a power system researcher who has solid background on power system modeling, operation, and optimization. Ideal candidate is expected to have strong experience in understanding power system operations and energy management topics, and developing optimization models and/or data-driven controls that are related to at least one of the following topics:

  • Developing energy management strategies related to ADMS, DERMS, microgrid controls, home energy management system
  • Developing optimization schemes or data-driven controls for grid reliability and resilience
  • Developing grid automation and control schemes

Ideal candidate is also expected to have a proven record of publishing research work in prestigious journals. Thesuccessful candidate will work on multiple projects, and collaborate with both internal researchers and external partners.

Note: this position requires in-person work arrangements at NLR's South Table Mountain Campus in Golden, CO and is not eligible for 100% remote work.

.

Basic QualificationsMust be a recent PhD graduate within the last three years.

* Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.

Additional Required Qualifications
  • Relevant Ph.D. or Ph.D. candidate in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science or related fields
  • Experience in power system modeling, optimization, and control
  • Experience in at least one of the power system software tools including OpenDSS, PSCAD, PSS/E
  • Experience in at least one of the optimization solvers and platforms such as CPLEX, CVXPY, Pyomo, GAMS
  • Proficiency in MATLAB or Python programming
Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with microgrid, grid resilience, grid cybersecurity

  • Familiarity with market participation, demand response, virtual power plant

  • Familiarity with T&D coordination

  • Proficiency in commercial/open-source optimization solvers and packages (e.g., GAMS,Gurobi, CPLEX)

  • Software development experience is a plus. Experience with software development in Python, C++, or other programming languages

  • Excellent writing and verbal communication skills

  • Track record in strong scientific publications

.

Job Application Submission Window

The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.

Annual Salary Range (based on full-time 40 hours per week)Job Profile: Postdoctoral Researcher / Annual Salary Range: $76,600 - $126,400

NLR takes into consideration a candidate's education, training, and experience, expected quality and quantity of work, required travel (if any), external market and internal value, including seniority and merit systems, and internal pay alignment when determining the salary level for potential new employees. In compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, a potential new employee's salary history will not be used in compensation decisions.

Benefits SummaryBenefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; short-term disability insurance*; pension benefits*; 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match*; life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance; personal time off (PTO) and sick leave; and paid holidays. NLR employees may be eligible for, but are not guaranteed, performance-, merit-, and achievement- based awards that include a monetary component. Some positions may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement.

* Based on eligibility rules

Badging RequirementNLR is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as required by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12), which includes a favorable background investigation.Drug Free Workplace

NLR is committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace in accordance with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug.

If you are offered employment at NLR, you must pass a pre-employment drug test prior to commencing employment. Unless prohibited by state or local law, the pre-employment drug test will include marijuana. If you test positive on the pre-employment drug test, your offer of employment may be withdrawn.

Submission Guidelines

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at NLR you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard basis of age (40 and over), 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, and any other applicable status protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Reasonable Accommodations

E-Verify www.dhs.gov/E-Verify For information about right to work, click here for English or here for Spanish.

E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This business uses E-Verify in its hiring practices to achieve a lawful workforce.

Apply