Operations Engineer - SR

Senior Operations Engineer provides engineering analysis and technical support to ensure continuing reliable operations of the electric power grid in compliance with NERC Standards, ERCOT Protocols and Market Guides. Provides electrical engineering analysis and technical support for the planning and operation of the electric power system. Implements appropriate system modeling, develops tools and procedures to monitor and control the system, performs system studies, analyzes simulated or actual operating results, develops solutions to current or future system issues, and appropriately reports findings and recommendations.

• Grid Analysis focuses on the transmission-level Bulk Electric System (BES) and performs both statistical and power-flow simulation analysis to ensure the reliability of the grid. Responsibility of the Grid Analysis includes, but is not limited to the following:
• Approve or reject Constraint Management Plans (CMPs) based on the power-flow simulation results using tools such as EMS, PowerWorld, PSSE, etc.
• Facilitate the Black Start Resources (BSRs) procurement process and award resources every 3-years using the optimization engine.
• Coordinate Transmission Operator Black Start Plans and develop the ERCOT Black Start Plan.
• Analyze voltage control performance of electric equipment and coordinate with both Resource entities and Transmission entities to improve reliability.
• Correlate historical congestion and outages to improve market transparency.
• Support steady-state stability analysis and cascading analysis for Generic Transmission Constraints (GTCs) and Interconnection Reliability Operating Limits (IROLs).

JOB DUTIES

• Understands and applies principles, theories and concepts related to the profession and ERCOTs culture.
• Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
• Impact is generally limited to specific assignments or projects.
• May respond to inquiries and/or aid and/or guidance to lower-level workers.

ADDITIONAL JOB DUTIES

• Serves as a technical Subject Matter Expert for the department.
• Makes independent decisions except in instances of unusually complex engineering scenarios.
• Works on the most complex engineering issues where analysis of situations requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors. Has the ability to resolve complex issues in creative and effective ways.
• May coordinate, provide presentations, and participate in stakeholder meetings with ERCOT personnel, Market Participants and industry Regulatory agencies.
• Fosters and leverages strong working relationships with team and other internal departments.
• Lends professional expertise to guide projects and help teammates assigned by manager.
• Acts as mentor and advisor to less experienced engineers/analysts.
• Leads multifunctional teams to obtain input, address comments and perform studies.
• Demonstrates skills as an expert user of power system software applications and tools, spreadsheet programs, and database programs.
• Maintains knowledge of emerging trends and industry best practices.
• May provide on the job training or help oversee the work of other engineers/analysts
• May act as mentor and advisor to less experienced engineers/analysts
• Typically works independently on assignments and projects
• Participates in multifunctional teams to obtain input, address comments and perform studies
• Assists in developing tools, processes and procedures that enhance system reliability and departmental/organizational efficiencies
• Participates with other ERCOT departments to select and implement system changes as needed
• Performs all work according to applicable rules and regulations including regulatory requirements and organization policies and procedures
• Learns how to use and develop software tools that enhance system reliability and departmental/organizational efficiencies

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 5 years of experience as a power system engineer or similar type role within the electric utility industry.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• In depth knowledge of at least one but preferably several of the following software package: EMS, PowerWorld, PSSE, and PSLF.

Salary and level will be based on overall experience as determined by ERCOT.

EDUCATION

• Bachelors Degree: Electrical Engineering or related field (Required)
• or a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge to a major in such fields is required.

CERTIFICATION

• PE Professional Engineer (Preferred).

WORK LOCATION:

• This position is Hybrid.  Employees will be required to be on-site in Taylor, TX at least 1-2 days per week, or more, as needed based on the business needs as determined by management.
• On-site schedules are flexible or may be rotated based on business needs as determined by the Manager.
• Remote work is required to be performed from your Texas residence.  
• Employees may opt to work on-site more than required or 100% of the time.

The foregoing description reflects the minimum qualifications and the essential functions of the position that must be performed proficiently with or without reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities.  It is not an exhaustive list of the duties expected to be performed, and management may, at its discretion, revise or require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned.  This job description is not intended to create a contract of employment with ERCOT.  Both ERCOT and the employee may exercise their employment-at-will rights at any time. ## LI-Hybrid

ERCOT is firmly committed to equal employment for all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, medical condition, religion, age, creed, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, ancestry, veteran status, genetic information or any other protected category under federal, state or local law.

Expected Salary Range:

$99,111 - $168,446