Software Engineer (Power Systems)

Our vision

AI + data centers are booming, electrification is accelerating, and trillions in generation + storage projects are queued — but the real bottleneck is the grid. Grid planning and operations are now a national-scale systems problem: complex models, messy data, strict governance, high-stakes decisions.

What is Squid 🦑

Squid is building the agentic fabric layer for grids — where truth lives, change is tracked, and humans + AI agents can safely operate together. We unify legacy planning models and operational data into a versioned, auditable source of truth, then layer on collaboration + AI agents that help teams run checks, explain changes, and move faster — without losing rigor. We’re less than 3 months old and already working with one of the largest grid operators globally.

The role

You’ll use power systems knowledge to build better software — and help us ship bespoke modelling capability for real grid workflows (planning, analysis, connections). You’ll work directly with the founders and the early team, be customer-facing, and ship end-to-end (prototype → production → iterate).

We’re AI-native in how we build: expect high agency with tools like Cursor / Claude Code, agent-assisted QA, and “agent-first, human-in-the-loop” development — alongside real engineering across backend, cloud, and data systems.

You’ll thrive if you have some of this

  • Power systems modelling experience (industry or research): load flow, short circuit, contingency studies, network model building, etc.
  • Familiarity with tools like pandapower, PyPSA, GridCal (or similar open-source stacks), and/or commercial tools like DIgSILENT PowerFactory, IPSA, PSS®E
  • Experience with grid connections studies or utility workflows is a big plus
  • Software engineering experience can vary — if you’re sharp and curious, we can ramp you fast

What we care about

  • You love power systems and want to go deep (this is not a “learn it later” domain)
  • You’re excited to turn messy real-world grid workflows into reliable product
  • You move fast, take ownership, and like being close to customers
  • You’re excited about pushing AI tooling to the limit to ship high-quality work faster

What do you include in the application (via form/CV)

  • Expected salary range / notice period
  • A short note on your power systems background (projects, studies, tools you’ve used)
  • Links or examples (GitHub, papers, models, studies, anything you’re proud of)
  • Tell us if you have the right to work in the UK

Join us in our brand new office in Paddington, where you will have full autonomy day-to-day. 🦑

Please include your expected salary range at the top of your application. Applications open until early April 2026. Interviews soon after.

Job Details

Company
Squid (YC W26)
Location
City of London, London, United Kingdom
Posted