Grid Transformation Lead

JOB SUMMARY

This role develops a forward-looking vision for how ERCOT can anticipate and address the challenges of a transforming Texas electric grid. Drawing on deep expertise in power systems simulation, mathematical optimization, and emerging grid technologies, the individual will build analytical frameworks that strengthen grid readiness and continuously evolve as new techniques emerge.

In this role, you will engage with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders to advance ERCOT's capabilities at the forefront of this transition. 

JOB DUTIES 

• Recognized as a subject matter expert, possessing specialized advanced technical skills and competencies.  Frequently contributes to the development of new theories and methods using knowledge gained through wide-reaching experiences. 

• Employs highly-developed problem resolution skills and expertise as a generalist or specialist using professional concepts and ERCOT objectives to resolve complex issues in creative and effective ways.  Exerts significant latitude in determining objectives of assignment.  Exercises judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. 

• Wide latitude for decisions within area of expertise; impact generally extends beyond the department. 

• Often advises and leads the work of junior employees.  Could frequently perform in a program/project leadership role requiring the ability to develop and lead matrixed teams.   Interacts with management and senior customers on matters requiring coordination across organizational lines. 
• Applies simulation results to support planning studies, operational analyses, and grid transformation initiatives, including those addressing increasing penetration of inverter-based resources (IBR) and large loads
• Develops and documents simulation workflows, case management practices, and automation pipelines to improve reproducibility and efficiency of large-scale studies. 
• Brings genuine intellectual curiosity and a drive to learn, actively engages with academic literature, industry research, open-source tooling, and collaborative forums to incorporate new ideas into ERCOT's analytical toolkit. 
• Explores solution formats including white papers, research papers, proof-of-concept studies, pilot programs, and prototypes. 
• Tracks trends and issues related to generation, transmission, and distribution technologies and assesses their potential impact on ERCOT. 
• Proposes new or revised ERCOT protocols, guides, or procedures to accommodate emerging solutions and market participation. 
• Provides strategic and technical expertise to internal and external stakeholders, raising awareness of relevant research and innovation activities. 
• Builds and maintains formal and informal networks with energy research organizations, academic institutions, and industry consortiums including ISO/RTO councils, PSERC, EPRI, CEATI, and universities to share information, coordinate action, and foster cooperation. 
• Identifies partnership and collaboration opportunities, establishing clear governance structures to ensure progress and timely communication. 

• Provides strategic and technical expertise to internal and external stakeholders, raising awareness of relevant research and innovation activities. 

• Builds and maintains formal and informal networks with energy research organizations, academic institutions, and industry consortiums including ISO/RTO councils, PSERC, EPRI, CEATI, and universities to share information, coordinate action, and foster cooperation. 

• Identifies partnership and collaboration opportunities, establishing clear governance structures to ensure progress and timely communication. 

EXPERIENCE:

• Requires minimum 8 years job related work experience in excess of degree requirements 

• Minimum 8 years of experience in electric power grid operations and/or planning at a utility or an ISO or a vendor.  

• Minimum 8 years of hand-on experience working with mathematical optimization, simulation engines, and open-source development.   

• Demonstrated record of success in working across cross-functional matrixed teams, and successfully delivering solutions required. 
• Some travel is required both within the US and internationally. 

• Deep expertise in at least two simulation domains: steady-state power flows, AC/DC Security-Constrained Optimal Power Flow (SCOPF), Production Cost Modeling (PCM), or Capacity Expansion modeling. 

• Strong understanding of the mathematical engines and numerical solvers underlying these tools, with the ability to interpret, validate, and communicate results with confidence. 

• Applies simulation results to support planning studies, operational analyses, and grid transformation initiatives, including those addressing increasing penetration of inverter-based resources (IBR) and large loads. 

• Develops and documents simulation workflows, case management practices, and automation pipelines to improve reproducibility and efficiency of large-scale studies.
• Deep understanding of commercial and open-source optimization engines including CPLEX, IPOPT, and Gurobi, encompassing LP, MIP, QP, and NLP formulations relevant to power systems. 
• Ability to formulate, implement, and debug optimization models for applications such as OPF, unit commitment, dispatch, and resource adequacy. 
• Leverages optimization tools to support ERCOT's analytical needs and contributes to novel solution approaches for emerging grid challenges. 
• Proficiency in Python or C/C++, with working experience in version control tools such as GitHub and AI development toolkits. 

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's Degree: Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Operational research or related field (Required) 

• Master's or PhD Degree: Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Operational research or related field (Preferred) 

• or a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge to a major in such fields is required 

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, #LI-IV1

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: