Planning Engineer Lead

JOB SUMMARY

Performs advanced electrical engineering analysis and provides technical leadership in support of power system dynamic stability, reliability, and transmission planning activities. The primary focus of this position is the execution and leadership of large-scale dynamic stability studies, including the evaluation of generator performance, inverter-based resources, large load behavior, and overall system response under a wide range of operating conditions.

Develops and applies power system models, analytical methods, tools, and procedures to assess system reliability and performance. Conducts complex engineering studies, analyzes simulation results, identifies reliability risks, develops mitigation recommendations, and communicates technical findings to internal and external stakeholders. The Lead Engineer serves as a senior technical contributor, leading engineering assignments and supporting the development and continuous improvement of protocols, study processes, methodologies, and automation tools.

JOB DUTIES

• Lead and perform large-scale dynamic stability studies to evaluate system performance, reliability, and compliance with planning and operating criteria.
• Analyze transient, small-signal, and voltage stability performance of the ERCOT system under a variety of operating conditions and contingencies.
• Evaluate generator, inverter-based resource, and large load dynamic performance and their impacts on system reliability.
• Develop study assumptions, methodologies, and analytical approaches for complex dynamic performance assessments.
• Support the development, validation, maintenance, and application of power system dynamic models.
• Analyze simulation results, identify reliability concerns, and develop technically sound recommendations to mitigate system risks.
• Develop and enhance engineering tools, automation processes, and analytical workflows using Python or similar programming languages.
• Collaborate with internal teams, Transmission Service Providers (TSPs), Market Participants, consultants, and other stakeholders on system performance and planning issues.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for management, stakeholders, and industry working groups.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineers and analysts and support the review of engineering work products.
• Support continuous improvement of dynamic study processes, modeling practices, and planning methodologies.
• Support compliance with applicable NERC Reliability Standards and ERCOT planning requirements.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible experience in power system engineering, transmission planning, system performance analysis, or a related field within the electric utility industry.
• Extensive experience performing large-scale dynamic stability studies using industry-standard simulation tools such as PSS®E, TSAT, and/or PowerWorld.
• Familiarity with electromagnetic transient (EMT) analysis concepts and applications.
• Experience conducting dynamic model validation, model quality testing, and performance assessments of generation resources and inverter-based resources.
• Extensive experience in the development and maintenance of flat-start cases used for dynamic stability studies.
• Experience analyzing large load dynamic behavior, including data centers, industrial facilities, and other emerging load types.
• Experience developing simulation automation tools and engineering workflows using Python or similar programming languages.
• Experience assessing power system stability issues, including oscillatory performance and sub-synchronous oscillations.
• Experience leading complex technical studies or cross-functional engineering projects.
• Working knowledge of transmission planning principles and applicable NERC Reliability Standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with ERCOT Protocol, Planning Guide, and Nodal Operating Guide.
• Experience using PSCAD tools for EMT analysis.
• Experience with inverter-based resource performance assessments and model validation.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license or ability to obtain licensure.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's 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

WORK LOCATION:

• This position is Hybrid.  Employees will be required to be on-site in Taylor, TX at least 2-3 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

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