Power Systems Engineer, Transmission Planning & System Studies

About the role

Power Systems Engineer, Transmission Planning & System Studies | Tesla (Energy Engineering)

Location: Palo Alto, California | Req ID: 275159 | Job Type: Full-time

What to Expect

Tesla Energy is building the power grid of the future. Join us as a Power Systems Engineer to extend our in-house transmission planning and bulk-system modeling capability for energy storage, solar, and charging infrastructure at mass scale across the Americas.

You will own steady-state, contingency, dynamic, and production-cost studies using industry-standard tools, translate complex grid analyses into actionable project strategy, and serve as Tesla's technical voice in planning discussions with utilities and system operators. Most importantly, you will see your work enable the deployment of clean energy projects that reshape the grid.

What You'll Do

• Run transmission planning studies: N-0/N-1/N-1-1/N-2 contingency analysis, thermal/voltage screening, and transfer-capability assessments
• Perform production-cost and market simulation: hourly dispatch modeling, congestion/LMP analysis, and curtailment estimation for storage and hybrid projects
• Execute power-system studies for planning assessments including stability screening and sensitivity studies
• Provide pre-bid site screening and transmission-availability assessments for energy storage, solar, hybrid projects, and large-load opportunities
• Represent Tesla in transmission-planning and production-cost discussions with utilities, IPPs, and ISOs
• Support ISO/RTO planning processes and contribute to FERC planning frameworks
• Develop Python automation to scale study workflows and author utility-grade study report

What You'll Bring

• Degree in Electrical Engineering (power systems focus) with 5+ years transmission planning experience or 3+ years at an ISO/RTO, utility, IPP, or consultancy; or equivalent experience
• Hands-on proficiency in PSS/E, PSCAD, PSLF, and EMTP-RV for power flow, transient stability, and EMT studies
• Expert-level TARA (PowerGEM) for contingency analysis and reliability assessments
• Expert-level PROMOD IV or equivalent production-cost tool (PLEXOS, GE MAPS) for market simulation and congestion analysis
• Strong Python scripting; familiarity with IPLAN, MATLAB, or Excel-VBA for batch workflows
• Knowledge of NERC TPL, MOD, and FAC reliability standards
• Excellent written communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Experience with ISO planning processes, PowerWorld, DIgSILENT, FTR/CRR modeling, or storage capacity accreditation
• P.E. or P.Eng. license
• Willingness to travel domestically up to ~10%

Benefits

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

• Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction
• Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
• Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution
• Company Paid (Health Savings Accounts) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible medical plan with HSA
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
• Company paid Basic Life, AD&D
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions, Accrued hours for Hourly positions), and Paid Holidays
• Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
• Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
• Weight Loss and Tobacco Cessation Programs
• Tesla Babies program
• Commuter benefits
• Employee discounts and perks program
• Earned Wage Access: Real-time pay access paid daily, subject to eligibility and schedule (applicable for below Sr. Managers levels)

Expected Compensation$120,000 - $228,000/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefitsPay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.