Okay, I've searched for senior power systems engineer roles in Oakland, CA, focusing on full-time positions requiring expertise in PLC programming, electrical distribution design under 38kV, and at least 5 years of experience. I have found 27 positions for you.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The role of Sr. Power Systems Engineer at Schneider Electric is designed for a seasoned electrical engineer who acts as a subject matter expert in power systems and automation, primarily focusing on delivering technically sound and commercially viable solutions for power control and automation (PCA) projects typically under 38kV. This position requires more than just technical prowess; it demands a blend of deep engineering knowledge—ranging from protective relay programming, PLC and HMI development for Automatic Throwover (ATO) systems, to complex power system analysis—and strong client-facing skills to build trusted advisor relationships. Candidates must navigate the challenges of interpreting diverse technical documents, balancing project scope, schedule, and budget constraints while ensuring solutions meet rigorous standards and customer expectations. Success in this role hinges on the ability to effectively troubleshoot, train, and mentor peers, while maintaining cross-functional collaboration with sales, project developers, and internal teams. The job requires a balance of autonomy, accountability, and proactive communication to anticipate risks and advocate mitigation strategies, reflecting Schneider Electric’s commitment to delivering innovation in electrification and automation domains. A Professional Engineer (PE) license coupled with experience in power automation and electrical distribution systems enhances credibility and strategic impact. Ultimately, the role is pivotal in translating the company’s sustainability ambitions into tangible, reliable, and efficient power system solutions.

Company Analysis:

Schneider Electric stands as a global leader in industrial technology with a strong foothold in electrification, automation, and digitization, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency as core pillars. Its market position as both an innovator and a trusted partner highlights a dual focus on cutting-edge technology adoption and deep customer relationships. The company’s vast global presence and inclusive culture rooted in the IMPACT values (Inclusion, Mastery, Purpose, Action, Curiosity, Teamwork) suggest a fast-paced yet supportive environment that values continuous learning and collaborative problem-solving. For a senior engineer, this means working in a culture that encourages curiosity and mastery while expecting purposeful, actionable contributions aligned with the company’s mission of creating resilient and sustainable infrastructure. The role is strategically significant within Schneider Electric’s growth and innovation agenda—bridging technical expertise and customer interaction to deliver end-to-end energy management solutions. Positioned within a matrixed and cross-functional organizational structure, this role likely enjoys visibility across business development, engineering, and operations teams, making influence, communication, and adaptability essential. A candidate who embraces Schneider’s sustainability-oriented mission and thrives amid complexity and change will find meaningful long-term potential, especially as the company advances Industrial IoT and AI-enabled solutions for future-proof energy systems.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral: Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex power system issue that affected project delivery. How did you approach it and what was the outcome?
• Behavioral: Describe an experience where you had to communicate technical risks to a non-technical customer or stakeholder. How did you ensure clarity and manage expectations?
• Behavioral: Share an example of when you successfully mentored a junior engineer or team member. What strategies did you use to transfer knowledge?
• Behavioral: Can you discuss a time when you had to manage cross-functional collaboration to meet a tight project deadline? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
• Technical: How do you approach programming and modifying PLC and HMI systems for Automatic Throwover applications? What key considerations must you keep in mind?
• Technical: Explain the process and importance of protective relay programming and commissioning. How does this impact system reliability and safety?
• Technical: Walk me through your experience interpreting and applying electrical codes, standards, and power system study reports when designing distribution systems under 38kV.
• Technical: What tools or software have you used for power system troubleshooting and analysis, and how do you apply them in daily engineering tasks?
• Situational: Imagine you receive conflicting data from power system studies and customer requirements during a project. How would you resolve this discrepancy?
• Situational: You are leading a troubleshooting session for an ATO system that frequently fails under certain conditions. How would you systematically identify and address the root cause?
• Situational: Suppose a customer requests a modification late in the project timeline that could impact budget and schedule. How would you handle this while maintaining a positive relationship?
• Company Fit/Motivation: What excites you most about Schneider Electric’s mission of bridging sustainability with automation and electrification?
• Company Fit/Motivation: How do your personal and professional values align with Schneider Electric’s IMPACT values and commitment to diversity and inclusion?
• Company Fit/Motivation: Schneider Electric emphasizes continuous development and mastery. How do you stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends relevant to power systems engineering?
• Questions for interviewer: Can you describe how the Sr. Power Systems Engineer role collaborates with other departments such as business development and project management within Schneider Electric?
• Questions for interviewer: What are the most critical challenges facing this role in the next 12 months, especially related to scaling PCA solutions?
• Questions for interviewer: How does Schneider Electric support ongoing professional development and growth for engineers working remotely or in dispersed teams?