2027 Spring Co-op - Systems Operations Engineer

MISO; Eagan (MN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing available

Job summary

MISO is seeking a Power Systems Engineering Co-op in Eagan, MN. You will run next-day contingency studies and forecasts, then interpret results to support operators and utilities across the Midwest.

You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools like TARA, PSSE, and EMS, while coding in Python and SQL to automate tasks and improve workflows. This role bridges planning and real-time operations, offering exposure to both shift and non-shift work with real impact on grid reliability across 47 million

Qualifications

• Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Electrical Engineering or closely related field.
• Coursework should cover power systems, control systems, or circuits.
• Programming experience preferred (Python, MATLAB, or C++).

Responsibilities

• Run next-day contingency studies and simulations (TARA/PSSE).
• Review load forecasts and outage schedules to support grid reliability.
• Summarize findings for the team and feed into operating guides and handoffs.

Skills

Python

SQL

Microsoft Excel

Education

Electrical Engineering coursework

Related field coursework

Tools

TARA

PSSE

EMS

Job description

What You'll Do:

As our Power Systems Engineering Co-op, you'll contribute to the daily readiness of MISO's grid by running and interpreting next-day contingency studies. Your work will help operators and member utilities confidently manage tomorrow's challenges - ensuring reliable power for 47 million people across the region.

You’ll gain hands-on experience with:

• Industry tools like TARA, PSSE, and EMS


• Coding and automation using Python and SQL to streamline processes and support the Day Ahead Market


• Real-world projects such as developing automation for power system models and enhancing workflows that directly impact grid operations

A Great Day in This Role Means:

You’ll start by reviewing next-day load forecasts and outage schedules, then run contingency simulations in TARA or PSSE. You’ll identify potential grid constraints and summarize findings for the team, which feed directly into Operating Guides and daily operator handoffs.

You’ll know you’re making an impact when your analysis helps keep the grid stable and reliable for millions of people across the Midwest.

This is a Unique Opportunity Because:

This team bridges the gap between planning and real-time operations. You’ll get exposure to both shift and non-shift work, collaborating directly with the Control Room. This rare perspective shows how next-day studies connect to real-time decisions, giving you a front-row seat to MISO's mission of keeping the grid reliable.

What You’ll Be Proud to Share:

• Supported MISO’s Operations Planning team by running next-day power flow studies that informed operator decisions and ensured grid reliability for 47 million people.


• Developed hands-on expertise with industry tools (TARA, PSSE, EMS) and coding languages (Python, SQL).


• Collaborated with engineers to manage grid challenges during high-demand and renewable-heavy conditions.

Qualifications at a Glance:

Term: January XX - May XX, 2027 | Full-time | Paid

Location: Eagan, IN | Housing available for qualified students

Academic Level: Undergraduate (Juniors or Seniors) or Graduate

Degree: Electrical Engineering (or closely related field)

Required Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Python (or other coding languages with ability to learn quickly)


• Strong skills in Microsoft Excel and Office tools

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with industry tools: PSSE, PowerWorld, TARA


• SQL for data analysis and automation


• Coursework in Power System Engineering, Transformers, or related fields

By the End of Your Co-op, You’ll Walk Away With:

• A tangible impact story (e.g., "My study identified a potential overload that shaped an operator's guide")


• Stronger technical skills (simulations, coding, data interpretation) and soft skills (presenting to diverse audiences)


• A deep understanding of RTO-scale next-day operations planning


• Expanded professional network across MISO and the energy industry


• A strong resume bullet such as: "Conducted next-day contingency studies in MISO's Operations Planning group, supporting reliability decisions for 45 million people across the Midwest."

About MISO

MISO manages the electricity superhighway in the Central U.S. Through use of groundbreaking research and advanced technology, our highly skilled employees ensure power flows reliably to 47 million customers. Operating the electricity grid, running a robust energy market, planning for a bright future - it's what our immensely talented and dedicated team does every day. Plug into your future career.

Education

• Some college of Electrical Engineering (required)


• Some college of Electrical & Computer Engineering (required)

Experience

• SQL for data analysis and automation experience (preferred)


• Familiarity with Energy Management Systems (EMS) or grid operations tools. (preferred)


• Programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or C++). (required)


• Completion of coursework covering power systems, control systems, and circuits. (preferred)


• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel. (required)


• Completion of core Electrical Engineering courses. (required)

Skills

• Microsoft Excel (Immediate) (preferred)


• TARA (preferred)


• Power Flow Analysis (preferred)


• PSSE (preferred)


• C (preferred)


• Python (preferred)


• C++ (preferred)

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.