Power Distribution Engineering Associate at Bay Systems Consulting Inc. – Berkeley, California

Berkeley Lab is hiring a Power Distribution Engineering Associate to provide support for the Advanced Light Source (ALS) and its upgrade project (ALS-U), with a primary focus on AC upgrade infrastructure. This role involves supporting the upgrade efforts for the AC distribution systems for our facility, ensuring efficiency, safety, and compliance with all relevant standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in AC power distribution coupled with excellent troubleshooting and project management skills. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on critical infrastructure upgrades in a collaborative, dynamic environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assist in the design, upgrade, and maintenance of low- and medium-voltage AC distribution systems, including electrical panels, transformers, switchgear, and circuit breakers.
• Conduct system analyses, load calculations, and capacity planning under the guidance of senior engineers to support optimal system performance.
• Support efforts to ensure compliance with NEC, IEEE, and other applicable electrical standards.
• Coordinate with tradespeople and contractors to oversee the fabrication, installation, and testing of electrical systems.
• Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to plan and execute AC distribution system projects, ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Contribute to the integration of new AC distribution systems with backup power solutions as needed.
• Support safety, efficiency, and operational reliability by adhering to established engineering and safety protocols.
• Prepare and maintain detailed documentation of designs, upgrades, and maintenance activities for project records and compliance purposes.

This role requires hands-on experience in the Utility/R&D environment and a background in electronics or electrical engineering. By delivering high-quality technical solutions, this position plays a critical role in the successful execution of ALS-U projects.

What You Will Do:

• Assist in designing and installing AC system upgrades.
• Perform hands-on work with power distribution, cables, power supplies within cable trays and trenches.
• Assist in verifying compliance with electrical requirements (voltage, current, grounding, etc.).
• Assist in troubleshooting connectivity issues and maintain necessary qualifications (e.g., Qualified Electrical Worker, NFPA 70E).
• Assist in implementing AC systems, conducting tests, and selecting reliable components.
• Test cables for continuity, signal strength, and interference post-installation.
• Document cabling systems and designs using CAD tools, adhering to LBNL standards.
• Assist in troubleshooting connectivity issues.
• Maintain qualifications (e.g., Qualified Electrical Worker) and adhere to electrical safety practices (LOTO, NFPA 70E).
• Use procurement systems (ePro/eBuy) and assist in procuring electronics equipment, ensuring compliance with standards (NEC, NRTL, LBNL).
• Coordinate with other trades (electricians, technicians) and outside vendors to avoid conflicts.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safety protocols.
• Communicate clearly and adhere to safety standards.

Additional Responsibilities as Needed:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to manage project timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Experience with subsystems such as Power Supplies, RF, Controls, Diagnostics, and Vacuum systems.
• Use tools like cable testers, VNAs, TDRs, OTDRs, oscilloscopes, signal generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters, and HiPot testers.
• May supervise non-exempt personnel as needed.
• Support non-ALS-U projects at LBNL as required.

What is Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field, or equivalent experience, plus 3+ years of professional experience.
• Strong background in AC distribution systems design, testing, troubleshooting, wiring, power distribution, and control systems, with proficiency in reading electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and technical diagrams.
• Strong foundation in electronics circuit/system design, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Some experience in electronic systems,
• Familiar with cable types (multi-conductor, fiber optic, coaxial, twisted pair) and specifications.
• Comprehensive knowledge of electrical codes (NEC), safety standards (NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, OSHA, IEC), lab safety protocols, and risk assessment in electromechanical systems, with familiarity with qualified electrical worker certification.
• Proficient in CAD design (AutoCAD, OrCAD, KiCAD, etc.) for schematic capture and layout.
• Able to work with mechanical models.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with teams and stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications:

• 7 + years of relevant field experience
• Equivalent certifications and experience will also be considered.
• Minimum of 3+ years of experience in AC power distribution systems, including system upgrades and maintenance.
• Understanding of NEC, IEEE, and NFPA 70E standards.
• Proficiency with electrical testing and diagnostic tools.
• Experience managing infrastructure upgrade projects.
• Adaptable with a strong desire to learn new skills and technologies.