Overview

The Electricity Infrastructure and Buildings Division of PNNL is accelerating the transition to a decarbonized, efficient, resilient, and secure energy system through basic and applied research. We leverage a strong technical foundation in power and energy systems and in advanced data analytics to drive innovation, transform markets, and shape energy policy.

The Optimization and Control group within the EIBD is looking for a highly motivated intern to collaborate remotely with PNNL scientists in developing advanced modeling and optimization algorithms for the design and control of energy and power systems.

We seek a quantitatively minded individual who is both a creative technologist and a skilled programmer. The ideal candidate will possess a disciplined engineering approach and a passion for developing innovative technologies that directly contribute to project goals. Strong communication skills are essential, as you will be expected to report your technical findings through publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed conferences.

This internship provides a trans-formative experience, combining rigorous technical development with practical applications in renewable energy and power systems.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities will include creating dynamic models and system-level controls for renewable energy-dominated systems. These optimization algorithm developments will be developed keeping in mind a variety of use cases, such as microgrids and offshore wind farms. The developed optimization models for use cases are aimed to be translated into a user-friendly software environment, adhering to best practices in software engineering. The role will also offer opportunities to develop machine learning models—whether physics-based or data-driven—that are crucial for optimization formulations.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidates must be currently enrolled/matriculated in a PhD program at an accredited college.

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Enrolled in a PhD program (Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, or related fields). Cumulative GPA of 3.5 preferred.

• A strong understanding of optimization and libraries ex. IPOPT, CVXPY,GROUBI, etc.

• A strong understanding of object-oriented design, data structures, and algorithms.

• A strong understanding of renewable energy systems modeling, control, and optimization.

• Excellent software development skills in Julia and Python.

• Proficiency in Julia, JUMP, Python, and machine learning libraries/tools (Pytorch, Jax etc.).

• Experience in writing scientific software packages (Julia/Python).

• Demonstrated ability to produce algorithmic code in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent publication record at top optimization, control conferences and/or journals.

• Good communication skills (written and spoken).

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not applicable.

Additional Information

Not applicable.

Testing Designated Position

This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, flexible work schedules and telework options. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or 3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.

Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment Opportunity

Our laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov .

Drug Free Workplace

PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.

HSPD-12 PIV Credential Requirement

In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

Mandatory Requirements

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.

Rockstar Rewards

Regular Hourly :

Employees are offered an employee assistance program and business travel insurance. Employees are eligible for the company funded pension plan and 401k savings plan, once eligibility requirements are met.

Temporary Hourly :

Employees are offered an employee assistance program and business travel insurance.

Click Here For Rockstar Rewards (https://careers.pnnl.gov/rockstar-rewards)

Notice to Applicants

PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.

As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.

Minimum Salary

USD $22.93/Hr.

Maximum Salary

USD $35.00/Hr.