Graduate Intern - Data Center Load Modeling Transmission Planning Studies

Graduate Intern – Data Center Load Modeling for Transmission Planning Studies

Location:

CO – Golden
Position Type:
Intern (Fixed Term)
Hours Per Week: 40

The Grid Optimization and Control Group at the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) is seeking a highly motivated graduate intern to develop composite data‑center load models for transmission planning studies. The internship focuses on building and validating detailed EMT (electromagnetic transient) models and RMS‑based phasor models that represent the unique characteristics of modern data centers, contributing to improved reliability, stability, and protection strategies for transmission systems.

• Gather and analyze technical data on data‑center electrical architecture, including UPS systems, PDUs, cooling systems, and backup generation.
• Develop and validate component‑level models (e.g., UPS with PFC, PDU, VFD), and build a composite data‑center load model integrating IT load, power electronic interfaces, and motor‑driven auxiliaries.
• Implement detailed EMT models in simulation platforms (e.g., PSCAD, RTDS) to capture fast transients and fault behavior.
• Validate the EMT models using real‑world data.
• Build corresponding RMS phasor models for transmission planning tools (e.g., PSS®E and PSLF) to enable computationally efficient studies.
• Perform side‑by‑side comparisons between EMT and RMS models to assess accuracy and applicability for different planning scenarios.
• Document modeling methods, assumptions, and validation results in a clear and reproducible format.
• Collaborate with planning and protection engineers to ensure models meet practical study requirements.
• Contribute to technical reports and research papers.

• Hands‑on experience with utility‑grade EMT and RMS modeling tools used in industry and research.
• Insight into how data centers impact grid stability and how to model their interactions with the bulk power system.
• Collaboration with experienced planning, protection, and inverter modeling engineers.
• Contribution to real‑world studies on transmission planning, protection design, and stability assessment.
• Opportunity to co-author technical reports or publications based on project outcomes.

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Undergraduate:
  Full‑time student in a bachelor’s program at an accredited institution.
• Post‑undergraduate:
  Earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 12 months (internship up to one year).
• Graduate:
  Full‑time student in a master’s program at an accredited institution.
• Post‑graduate:
  Earned a master’s degree within the past 12 months (internship up to one year).
• Graduate + PhD:
  Completed master’s degree and enrolled as a PhD student at an accredited institution.

• Undergraduate degree in power systems, electrical engineering, or a related field; currently pursuing or graduated from a master’s degree, or enrolled in a PhD program in these fields.
• Knowledge and experience with power electronics, machine and drives, dynamic load modeling, and power system stability.
• Experience with EMT simulation tools (e.g., PSCAD or EMTP).
• Strong programming and analytical skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Strong communication and technical writing skills.

• Knowledge or experience with phasor‑domain tools (e.g., PSS®E, PSLF).

$43,700 – $69,900

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match.
• Sick leave (where required by law). Interns working fewer than 20 hours per week are not eligible for medical, dental, or vision benefits.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, martial status, domestic partnership status, military or veteran status, national origin or ancestry, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.