Hardware & Network Engineer – Power Systems - R&D

Hardware & Network Engineer – Power Systems – R&DJoin to apply for the Hardware & Network Engineer – Power Systems – R&D role at Nextracker Inc.Job OverviewNextracker's Control Systems Engineering team designs and delivers advanced control and communication solutions that optimize the performance of utility-scale solar, storage, and hybrid power plants.We are seeking a Hardware & Network Engineer to design, configure, and validate plant-level control systems that ensure reliable, secure, and standards-compliant operation of renewable generation assets.In this role, you will lead the hardware and network design for these control systems, selecting appropriate controller platforms (PLC or IPC), developing detailed electrical and communication schematics, and ensuring robust system integration.You will collaborate closely with firmware, SCADA, and commissioning teams to deliver fully validated control panels ready for field deployment.The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with strong technical expertise in control hardware design and industrial networking, capable of bridging the gap between electrical design, automation, and cybersecurity.You thrive in collaborative environments, demonstrate excellent problem-solving skills, and are comfortable working in multidisciplinary teams delivering high-reliability solutions for renewable energy projects.Key Job ResponsibilitiesHardware DesignDefine and document controller hardware architecture (PLC or IPC), including CPU selection, I/O modules, power supplies, and redundancy configurations.Design electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN.Generate I/O lists, instrumentation diagrams, and field interface wiring for sensors, breakers, inverters, meters, and RTUs.Specify and validate industrial enclosures, power supplies, and terminal blocks in compliance with UL 508A and NEC standards.Coordinate Factory and Site Acceptance Tests (FAT/SAT) with vendors, EPCs, and clients.Network and Communication DesignDevelop plant-level network topologies including control, SCADA, and utility communication layers.Configure managed switches, routers, and firewalls (e.g., Cisco, Moxa, Hirschmann, Siemens Scalance).Implement redundant Ethernet networks (RSTP, PRP, or HSR) and define IP addressing and VLAN schemes.Define cybersecurity zones and ensure compliance with IEC ***** and NERC CIP guidelines.Support time synchronization (NTP/PTP) and network diagnostic testing.Integration & Commissioning SupportCollaborate with firmware and SCADA teams to map signals, tags, and commands between controllers and field devices.Support Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and simulation testing using RTDS, OPAL-RT.Participate in on-site commissioning and network validation for renewable generation facilities.Review vendor-provided network and control documentation, including logical/physical network diagrams, VLAN configurations, and VPN setup.Basic QualificationsEducation: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Controls/Automation Engineering, or Power Systems Engineering.Experience: 5–10 years in power plant control system design for solar, storage, or hybrid facilities.Proven experience with PLC/IPC-based control architecture, industrial networking, and SCADA integration.Knowledge of utility interconnection standards and grid code compliance (IEEE ****, UL **** SA, IEC *****).Familiarity with industrial network redundancy, cybersecurity best practices, and remote access (VPN) setup.Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN, and experience generating detailed control panel documentation.Languages: Proficiency in English.Preferred QualificationsEducation: Master's degree in electrical engineering, Controls/Automation, or Power Systems Engineering.Experience with renewable energy control systems and grid-connected automation panels.Hands-on experience configuring and troubleshooting managed switches and firewalls in industrial environments.Languages: Proficiency in English.Familiarity with RTDS, OPAL-RT, or MATLAB/Simulink for control system validation.Understanding of commissioning procedures for control panels, including FAT/SAT execution.Experience with redundant control architectures and industrial VPN solutions.Why Join Nextracker