Operations Engineer Lead - Black Start

JOB SUMMARY

Lead 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. Provides technical Black Start related expertise and analysis of the natural gas and electric systems’ interface and related dependencies in support of continuing reliable operations of the electric power grid. Coordinates and supports the development and implementation of 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.

JOB DUTIES

• Investigate and support Black Start initiatives toward the improvement of the ERCOT Black Start Restoration process and plan
• Evaluate and produce technical assessments related to impacts of new technologies and their utilization in Black Start
• Investigate what technologies and methods other ISOs, RTOs and grid operators are utilizing to identify potential improvements to the ERCOT Black Start Restoration process. 
• Lead ERCOTs Black Start natural gas coordination and Gas Electric coordination efforts
• Serve as a subject matter expert for Black Start and natural gas industry terminology, requirements, and data availability
• Produce technical assessments of the impacts of natural gas system outages, operational flow orders and other gas restrictions on electric power generators
• Support control room operations during natural gas supply curtailment events, including nights, weekends, and holidays as necessary
• 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
• Participate in industry working groups and forums
• 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
• Participate 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
• 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

EDUCATION

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

EXPERIENCE

• Requires minimum 8 years related work experience in excess of degree requirements
• Operations experience with a gas pipeline or local distribution company is preferred

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.

Expected Salary Range: