NERC RC System Operator

ERCOT; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

ERCOT is seeking qualified System Operators to support the Real-Time Desk, DC Tie Desk, and related functions. The role involves ensuring the stable and reliable operation of the ERCOT electric system, processing market schedules, managing congestion, and coordinating actions with market participants.

Onsite Taylor, TX location with 12-hour shifts may apply. Required certifications include NERC RC and ERCOT System Operator for Senior levels; High School diploma required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• NERC RC Certification required for all levels.
• ERCOT System Operator Certification required for Senior level.

Responsibilities

• Operate Real-Time Desk to ensure reliable ERCOT operations.
• Process market participants' balanced schedules for energy and ancillary services.
• Manage congestion and coordinate voltage control on the transmission system.
• Ensure required information is posted for settlement, accounting and auditing.
• Provide guidance and training to less experienced operators as needed.

Skills

Real-Time Ops

Frequency Control

Transmission Security

Mentoring

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

SCADA

EMS

Job description

DC Tie Desk

At ERCOT, our diverse and dynamic work environment provides a platform on which employees can work together to build the future of the Texas power grid and wholesale market utilizing the latest technologies and resources. We encourage you to join our talented, dedicated workforce to develop world-class solutions for today and tomorrow's energy challenges while learning new skills and growing your career.

ERCOT is committed to fostering inclusion at all levels of our company. It is the cornerstone of our corporate values of accountability, leadership, innovation, trust, and expertise. We know that individuals with a wide variety of talents, ideas, and experiences propel the innovation that drives our success. An inclusive and diverse workforce strengthens us and allows for a collaborative environment to solve the challenges that face our industry today and in the future.

Coordinate, regulate, and distribute electricity in accordance with set protocols and operating guides. Holds responsibility for the reliable operation of the ERCOT electric system and compliance with the ERCOT Protocols and Operating Guides, including applicable operating and market guides and NERC Reliability Standards.

Job Duties

• Understands and apply principles, theories and concepts related to the profession and ERCOT's 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 provide assistance and/or guidance to lower-level workers.

Additional Job Duties

Roles and Authority, All Levels

• Real-Time Desk
• Transmission Security Desk
• Reliability Unit Commitment Desk
• Reliability Risk Desk
• Resource Desk
• DC Tie Desk

The role of each of these 6 desks and the supervision of those desks represent the following NERC functional entities collectively for ERCOT ISO at any time.

• Reliability Coordinator
• Balancing Authority
• Transmission Operator

This representation includes the responsibility and clear decision-making authority to direct and implement real-time actions to ensure the stable and reliable operation of the ERCOT electric system. These actions will be taken by all operating entities and market participants.

Essential Job Duties And Tasks

System Operator 2 (includes all the above in addition to)

• Works under the direction of a supervisor to complete daily tasks and assignments
• Ensures the reliable operation of the ERCOT electric system and compliance with the ERCOT Protocols and Operating Guides, including applicable operating and market guides and NERC Reliability Standards
• Processes Market participants' balanced schedules for resources and obligations of energy and ancillary services
• Responsible for frequency control of the ERCOT electric system and deployment of ancillary services
• Manages congestion on the transmission system and directs voltage control
• Ensures all required information is posted and recorded for settlement, accounting and auditing
• During abnormal operating conditions or system problems, evaluates the situation, directs and coordinates the solution with operating entities and market participants
• Implements and coordinates time error corrections, operating condition notices, advisories, watches, and emergency operations plans
• May provide on the job training or help oversee the work of other less experienced system operators
• May act as mentor and advisor to less experienced system operators
• Works independently on assignments and tasks
• Assists in developing tools, processes and procedures that enhance system reliability and departmental/organizational efficiencies
• May participate with other ERCOT departments to select and implement system changes as needed

System Operator 3 (includes all the above in addition to)

• Provides on the job training or help oversee the work of other less experienced system operators
• Acts as mentor and advisor to less experienced system operators
• Works independently on assignments and tasks
• 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

System Operator Senior (includes all the above in addition to)

• May serve as Subject Matter Expert for the team or department
• Make independent decisions except in instances of unusually complex scenarios
• Works on the most complex 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
• Fosters and leverages strong working relationships with other internal departments
• Lends professional expertise to guide projects and help teammates assigned by supervisor
• Acts as mentor and advisor to less experienced personnel
• Demonstrates skills as an expert user of grid applications and tools

Required Experience

• Level 2 Operator: Requires minimum 2 years job-related work experience in excess of degree requirements
• Level 3 Operator: Requires a minimum of 3 years job-related work experience in excess of degree requirements
• Senior Level: Requires minimum 5 years of job-related work experience in excess of degree requirements

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

EDUCATION

• High School Diploma or GED (Required)
• or a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge to a major in such fields is required

CERTIFICATIONS

• NERC RC Certification (Required for all levels)
• ERCOT System Operator (Required for Senior level)

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to work rotating day/night 12-hour shifts Sedentary work.
• Work Location: Onsite in Taylor, TX (just northeast of Austin)

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.

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.