OATI Career Opportunities
Welcome to Open Access Technology International, Inc. (OATI), where your career journey is in constant motion. Our team members bring expertise spanning various industries and technological domains. Combining the agility inherent in innovation with the stability of our 29-year history, OATI has cultivated a nurturing and fulfilling culture. Collaboration is central to our work culture, empowering every individual to surpass their designated roles and explore new horizons. If you seek a dynamic, stimulating, and gratifying career path, OATI awaits your talents!
Job Postings
AI
AI Internship and Full-Time
Open Access Technology International (OATI) is seeking highly motivated individuals to join our team of AI researchers focused on power systems. This is a fantastic opportunity for Master’s and Ph.D. students to gain practical experience working on real-world AI applications alongside leading experts in the energy sector.
Our team is tackling critical challenges in electric power system operations using Artificial Intelligence.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct research on specific AI problems critical to power system operations, leveraging OATI’s vast datasets spanning decades (e.g., forecasting load, wholesale electricity market prices, renewable energy generation; optimizing grid reliability, resiliency, and stability; signature analysis and anomaly detection).
- Develop and implement machine learning models using popular frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) to analyze and extract meaningful insights from power system data.
- Participate in the full research cycle, including literature review, data exploration, experimentation, analysis, and presentation of findings.
- Collaborate effectively with other researchers, engineers, and data scientists.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in AI and power systems research.
- Contribute to the development and documentation of technical code.
Qualifications:
Education:
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s program in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Science, Data Science, or a closely related field (e.g., Robotics, Computational Linguistics). Alternatively, be a Ph.D. student in a relevant field.
Technical Skills:
- Strong foundation in machine learning concepts, including algorithms (e.g., deep learning, reinforcement learning) and statistical methods.
- Proficiency in multiple programming languages commonly used in AI, such as Python, C++, and R.
- Experience with popular AI frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn) is a plus.
- Familiarity with version control systems like Git.
- Familiarity with SQL and No-SQL database engines is a plus.
Research and Project Experience:
- Experience conducting independent research or working on AI-related projects.
- (For Ph.D. students) A strong publication record demonstrating research experience.
- (For Master’s students) Experience conducting independent research or working on AI-related projects.
Other Skills:
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to tackle complex problems.
- Strong communication skills to present research findings and collaborate effectively within a team.
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
- A passion for research and development in the field of AI and a strong interest in the power sector.
Benefits:
- Gain valuable experience working on real-world AI projects with a significant impact on the future of power systems.
- Work alongside leading experts in AI and the energy sector.
- Potential for co-authorship on research publications (depending on contribution).
- Opportunity to develop your research skills and expertise in a rapidly evolving field.
- Be part of a dynamic and collaborative research team working on a critical global challenge.
Engineering and Software Development
Microgrid Controls Engineer
Open Access Technology International, Inc. (OATI), an innovative Minnesota-based technology company, is seeking a Microgrid Controls Engineer to work in the design, programming, and deployment/testing of microgrid systems. OATI’s Microgrid group is growing fast, and looking to add additional qualified staff to the team.
Microgrids are an exciting part of the new smart grid. They are electrical systems with the ability to generate their own power, disconnect and reconnect with the grid, and perform services to aid the greater power grid when they are grid-tied. These systems provide benefits such as greener power supply, resilient power through catastrophic events, and financial benefits to the system owners.
This position will involve the following tasks/responsibilities:
- Working with OATI software teams to develop, deploy, and test microgrid control platforms.
- Configuring and testing OATI’s software-based microgrid control platform.
- Programming SEL RTACs (Real-Time Automation Controllers) to perform ancillary functions, along-side OATI’s software based microgrid control platform.
- Supporting customers in troubleshooting SEL relays, meters, recloser controllers, etc.
- Designing control networks and infrastructure to perform communications at microgrid sites.
- Field implementation, commissioning and troubleshooting of new microgrid sites.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Bachelor or Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering (Technology), or Computer Science – OR equivalent experience
- Experience and knowledge with AC power, 3-phase AC power, real/reactive/apparent power, metering
- Experience with automation technology and/or any type of computer coding
- Valid US driver’s license
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Local to MN
Prior experience with the following technology is a plus but not required
- Automation protocols such as Modbus/TCP, DNP3/IP, SEL protocol
- Networking design and fundamentals such as IP addressing, IP subnets, IP protocols
- Experience programming automation controllers (e.g. SEL RTAC or other IEC 61131-3 style)
- Cogeneration, Microgrids, renewable energy, energy storage
- Linux – at least basic operational skills
- General scripting/coding in computing systems
- Experience with Relays, Meters, Switchboards, Transformers, and other electrical gear
- Knowledge of electric utility operations
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Can interpret engineering diagrams
- Ability to analyze AC power dynamics and provide corrective input to solve problems
- Ability to investigate, learn, and analyze independently
- Ability to troubleshoot system and controls issues
- Detail, quality, and documentation oriented personality
- Highly motivated and a self-starter
- Ability to travel as required (<10%)
Software Developer
OATI is looking for Software Developers with experience in building innovative, smart, and complex applications for openings in Bloomington, MN. Successful candidates will have strong understanding of requirement specifications and software design in order to write code in already developed modules or new module development. This position requires the ability to write efficient and quality code per coding standards from software design.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Education: Electrical and/or Computer Engineering with emphasis on power generation, transmission, and/or distribution systems
- Software development experience (Python, Java, C++, etc.) and in various power systems applications, such as distribution system design, distribution protection systems,
- Automatic Generation Control, load and generation forecasting, scheduling and optimization, power system analysis (Model Building, Power Flow, Optimal Power Flow, Contingency Analysis, State Estimation)
- Understanding of electricity markets
- Familiarity with communications and message payload standards and protocols such as OpenADR, IEEE 2030.5, CIM, ICCP, DNP3, Modbus, and others
- Ability to be a team player and work in collaboration with other team members
- Willing to relocate to MN
Other Requirements:
- Experience in data integration, web services, and database optimization
- Experience in agile development methodology
Transmission Planning Engineer
TranServ International, Inc. (TranServ), which is an OATI sister company, provides specialized transmission planning and operational services to electric transmission system operators. Located in Minneapolis, MN, its mission is to provide independent and innovative transmission management services to the electrical industry.
TranServ is seeking experienced power systems electrical engineers for several Transmission Planning Engineer openings. The position will provide knowledge, abilities, and skills on how to plan, develop, and coordinate electrical transmission system expansion planning projects including renewable and Smart Grid energy projects. For Sr. Transmission Planning Engineer will also: provide leadership in the engineering support for daily operations, manage compliance with tariff requirements, and is responsible for maintaining and managing transmission system models for power flow, transient stability, and short circuit analysis. Sr. Transmission Planning Engineer will also perform or manage System Impact and Generator Interconnection studies and will participate in several related activities.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- BSEE, MSEE preferred, Math, Physics, or related fields
- Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) a plus
- 3-8 plus years of transmission system planning experience
- Experience performing transmission planning engineering functions
- Ability to be available on a 24×7 basis to support clients
- Education and experience performing transmission planning studies in compliance with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) requirements and industry reliability standards
- Demonstrated experience working with MATLAB, PSS/E, TARA and Aspen programs, or comparable programs
- Effective interpersonal, oral, and written communications
- Experience with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) regional processes a plus
- Experience with the transmission expansion planning processes
- Acceptable background investigation report
- U. S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
Finance
Staff Accountant
OATI has immediate openings for Staff Accountant, part-time and full-time positions. A successful candidate will be self-motivated, highly organized, and have a desire to learn and diversify their skill set.
Responsibilities include:
- Accounts Receivable
- Prepare customer invoices and statements
- Apply customer payments
- Reconcile and adjust customer accounts including debit and credit memos
- Professionally interact with customers, OATI managers, and other stakeholders to resolve issues and collect overdue balances
- Accounts Payable
- Process requisitions and purchase orders to ensure proper approval, coding, and entry into the accounting system
- Professionally interact with vendors, OATI departments, and other stakeholders to resolve issues and ensure payment as per terms
- General accounting
- General ledger entries
- Account reconciliations
- Assist with month-end close
- Fixed Asset accounting
- Research, resolve and communicate the resolution of a variety of routine internal and external inquiries and discrepancies concerning account status
- Assist with financial audits
- Assist in ad hoc projects as needed
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Minimum of associate’s degree in accounting or finance
- Minimum of 2 – 3 years of accounting experience required
- Strong analytical, problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work under deadlines; a sense of urgency and strong organizational skills
- Must have good PC skills, especially in Microsoft® Excel®, Word®, and other Microsoft® Windows products
- Experience with accounting software packages and processes – Sage products a plus
- Must have good math skills
- Acceptable background investigation report
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Able to work on-site
IT
IT Support Technician
OATI is currently recruiting for multiple openings for IT Support Technicians for its Bloomington, MN location. The successful candidates will be self-motivated, quick learners, and demonstrate a passion and commitment to quality support of staff and customers. IT Support Technicians will perform, but are not limited to, PC and basic server support, printer support, hardware and software support, maintain corporate mobile devices, WSUS, SCCM and Antivirus management, as well as additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- A.A./A.A.S. in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
- 0 to 2 years of related experience, corporate experience is a plus
- Strong understanding of desktops, laptops, printers, mobile devices and servers
- Experience with active directory, SCCM, Microsoft SQL, Microsoft Visual Studio, Android and iPhone smartphones, Windows OS, and basic networking is preferred
- Strong inter-personal communications skills
- Certifications a plus:
- Comptia A+
- Microsoft MCP
- HDI Desktop Support Technician (HDI-DST)
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Local to MN
Other Requirements:
- Applicants must have a valid MN driver’s license
- Support pager rotation (24/7 availability while on duty)
- Acceptable background investigation report
- Must be willing to report to both our Bloomington, MN and N.E. Minneapolis locations
Administrative
Administrative Coordinator
OATI has immediate openings for Administrative Coordinator positions. Administrative Coordinators provide support to OATI staff and customers by performing a variety of complex administrative and clerical tasks in the Administrative Support area. These tasks typically include document organization and formatting, filing, data entry, communication with customers on behalf of OATI staff, internal document routing, and collaboration with other departments to complete inter-departmental projects. Additionally, this position will provide crucial sales support, including working on proposals and assisting in the preparation of sales documents.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in Linguistics or English Major
- Excellent writing and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrate ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and respond quickly to changing priorities
- Ability to multi-task and organize multiple projects
- Excellent organizational skills, analytical and problem solving abilities, and attention to detail
- Creative, with a high level of initiative and a strong sense of ownership
- Hands on experience with Microsoft® Office products (particularly MS Word and MS Excel); ability to learn new software
- Previous experience with Microsoft Visio and Microsoft Project is a plus
- Acceptable background investigation report
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Local to MN
Join us and be part of a team where your skills and initiatives are valued and rewarded!
Full-time employment includes competitive salary and benefits, a 401(k) plan with company match, personal time off, and excellent health and dental insurance programs. OATI prides itself on providing a stable, supportive environment for career development with opportunities for future growth and promotion within the company. Applicants must be self-motivated, energetic, and willing to work in a team-oriented company.
Project Coordinator
OATI is seeking both recent graduates and business professionals for positions as Project Coordinators to assist with coordinating project deployments in the energy industry. These positions require demonstrated proficiency in communication, understanding of project structuring, planning and implementation. Successful candidates will assist in customer, vendor, and internal projects, including administrative functions. These positions provide opportunities in a fast-paced environment working on the latest industry initiatives and the inherent growth opportunities.
Job responsibilities include:
- Provide administrative functions and support to project teams
- Participate in various solution project teams, providing support to the project team leader
- Actively support, track, and monitor project communication and activities
- Compile and track data and documentation for specific projects
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree
- 0-2 years of experience as a Project Coordinator or similar role
- Strong analytical and communication skills with the ability to acquire new skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to coordinate multiple assignments
- Excellent teamwork, work independently, creative/good level of initiative, good sense of ownership
- Bilingual preferred (Spanish)
- Acceptable background investigation report
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Local to MN
Other Requirements:
- Knowledge of Microsoft® Office
Project Management
Associate Project Manager
OATI Associate Project Manager 2-4 Years Direct Experience required
OATI is seeking business and operations professionals for positions as Associate Project Managers who are responsible for assisting in managing mission-critical software application deployments within the energy industry. These positions require demonstrated proficiency in communication, problem analysis, and the ability to review and understand industry business practices and standards. The successful candidates will assist in guiding customer-facing projects that feature software solutions for utility clients responsible for managing electrical grid system operations. OATI professionals lead client and vendor teams responsible for the development and delivery of OATI regulatory, compliance, transmission, energy trading, transmission scheduling, energy accounting, settlement, and smart grid solutions. These positions provide opportunities in a fast-paced environment to work on the latest industry initiatives and the inherent growth opportunities. Bachelor’s degree is required, however adequate industry work experience in system operations and IT will also be considered.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree with 2-4 years of direct experience
- Strong analytical and communication skills
- Ability to acquire new skills
- Infrequent travel required
- Acceptable background investigation report
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Local to MN
The Following Qualifications Are an Advantage:
- Juris Doctor Degree from an accredited law school
- Working knowledge of legal aspects of compliance and regulatory standards
- Working knowledge of FERC, NERC, and NAESB regulations and standards
- Understanding of the software development process
- Energy industry knowledge
- Industry work experience in system operations and IT
Senior Project Manager
OATI Project Manager– 5+ Years Experience required
OATI is seeking engineers and business professionals for positions as Project Managers who are responsible for assisting in managing complex software application deployments within the energy industry. These positions require demonstrated proficiency in communication, problem analysis, and the ability to review and understand energy industry business practices and standards. The successful candidates will guide customer-facing projects that feature software solutions for utility clients responsible for managing energy system operations and emerging renewable and distributed resource technologies. OATI professionals lead client and vendor teams responsible for the development and delivery of OATI industry-leading solutions for smart grid, transmission, energy trading, transmission scheduling, energy accounting, and settlement applications. These positions provide opportunities in a fast-paced environment to work on the latest industry initiatives and the inherent growth opportunities.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business or computer science, or a related field, Juris Doctor Degree from an accredited law school or Master’s degree in project management or equivalent experience
- Minimum of 5 years of energy industry experience in operations, planning, trading, or Information Technology.
- Strong analytical and communication skills with the ability to acquire new skills
- Acceptable background investigation report
- Demonstrated career progression in technical, management, and personal growth.
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
The Following Qualifications Are an Advantage:
- Working knowledge of FERC, NERC, and NAESB regulations and standards (a plus)
- Understanding of the software development process
- Spanish language proficiency
- Legal and/or Policy experience
- Working knowledge of legal aspects of compliance and regulatory standards
Sales and Marketing
Sales Account Executive
Join a dynamic sales team as an Account Executive supporting both new sales to current and future customers. A successful candidate will identify, strategize and execute plans to advance the use of OATI products with current customers.
Key focus areas include:
- Electric Reliability
- Power Transmission
- Commodity Trading
- Risk Management
- Energy Trading
OATI is seeking a highly motivated Account Executive for Software Sales. This is a sales role that will focus on identifying new market segment opportunities, new customers, growing existing accounts and driving the expansion of OATI solution sales. The Account Executive participates in a team-selling environment, providing the customer with a primary point of contact within OATI. Responsibilities include facilitating successful relations with customers, all sales activities, including: industry analysis, identifying new customers and new opportunities, building customer relationships, sales presentations and demonstrations, customer consultation, and proposal responsibility.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Have a minimum of five years of experience in at least one of the following areas:
- ETRM
- System Operations
- Energy Trading
- Transmission Management
- A BS/BA degree from an accredited 4 year university is required
- Software Sales Experience desired but not required
- Customer Sales and Support
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Acceptable background investigation report
- U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Ability to travel (travel required)
OATI offers full-time employment with competitive salary and benefits, including a 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, and excellent health and dental insurance programs. OATI prides itself on providing a stable, supportive environment for career development with opportunities for future growth and promotion within the company. Applicants must be self-motivated, energetic, and willing to work in a team-oriented company.
OATI is an EEO/AA employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, familial status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, status regarding public assistance, or protected Veteran status.
OATI is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the Personnel Services Department at 763.201.2000 x 1262 or hr@oati.net.