Data Analytics & Visualization (Wind Energy Industry)

ACTIVEcharge (https://ACTIVEcharge.us) is a University System of Maryland system affiliated technology innovation startup. We have been awarded a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) award by the US National Science Foundation (NSF).

Our focus is on developing solutions for autonomous, self-powered monitoring of hard-to-reach components through near-real-time analysis of data obtained from our custom-designed monitoring devices. Our technology is aimed at identifying issues before they turn into catastrophic accidents.

We are focusing on wind turbine blade monitoring as our initial commercialization area. The wind turbine blades are getting bigger, often 300ft. (100m) long. If a blade is damaged or breaks, it is a major expense, typically requiring shutting down the whole wind farm, loss of electricity generation, thoroughly checking every blade, replacement of broken/damaged blades and submitting insurance claims. Continuous monitoring of blades can detect several issues before they turn into major problems. Although several approaches have been tried (drones, remote sensing, etc.), currently the market is without an optimal solution to continuously monitor wind turbine blades. We believe our innovative patent-pending solution can meet this critical market need.

WHOM ARE WE LOOKING FOR? A self-driven, creative, hands-on person who will design our solution's data capture, visualization/dashboarding, and predictive analytics solution. The data will be transmitted from the sensing devices we put on the blades. The devices that we put on the blades can sense vibrations, lightning strikes, and ice buildup. These devices have integrated self-power generation, sensing capability, and data transmission. Another part of the project is focused on optimizing the device hardware and electronics.

Ideally, the incoming team member will be very conversant with methodologies and software tools to capture, analyze, and display real-time data. A recent degree in data science/analytics OR demonstrable experience is required. In addition, technical background (e.g., Mechanical engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, etc.), will be helpful to interface well with the rest of the solution area stakeholders.

The position is based in the Baltimore/Washington DC area and can be structured as a hybrid (working in the research lab, in-person team meetings, and the rest of the time working remotely). We have a budget of about $60k/year for this job; healthcare benefits will also be provided. Although this position is initially for one year, there is a high probability of continuation as we are applying for additional funding.

This is a great opportunity for an enterprising person to be part of the journey to develop an innovative solution for the rapidly growing wind energy industry.

Please send your résumé to: [email protected]