System Operator at Ellaway Blues Consulting in Austin, Texas

Job Description:

The System Operator is responsible for overseeing the continuous, 24/7 operation of transmission and interconnection facilities, ensuring compliance with Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), and Texas Reliability Entity (TRE) standards. This role upholds safety for personnel and reliability of the power system, working to avoid penalties tied to non-compliance with NERC standards. This position reports directly to the System Operations Supervisor.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain and monitor a reliable, compliant power system operation.
• Ensure the safe, compliant operation of transmission and interconnection facilities to maintain Bulk Electric System reliability, safeguarding maintenance and production personnel and equipment.
• Manage transmission assets within NERC requirements, requiring NERC System Operator certification.
• Coordinate and communicate asset outages, minimizing generation or interchange disruptions and ensuring compliance.
• Operate within Security Operating Limits (SOL) and uphold safety and asset protection.
• Assist system operations personnel in developing switching orders.

Key Activities and Challenges:

• Oversee transmission facility operations to maintain safe, reliable system control in line with NERC standards.
• Make decisions regarding transmission system operations, including firm load shedding when necessary.
• Direct operations of assets in compliance with regulatory and safety requirements.
• Maintain Transmission Operator-level NERC certification.
• Operate SCADA/EMS control systems per ERCOT, TRE, and PUCT standards.
• Execute and oversee high-voltage switching, ensuring safety and compliance during both normal and emergency operations.
• Respond swiftly to restore power following disturbances or device operations.
• Issue detailed procedures for safe high-voltage hazard mitigation during maintenance.
• Support troubleshooting for abnormal conditions and alarms to maintain stable operation.
• Gather and analyze data for periodic regional and national reporting.
• Coordinate with interconnected utilities and ERCOT to sustain grid stability.
• Fulfill Transmission Operator responsibilities per NERC and ERCOT standards.
• Coordinate transmission asset outages with ERCOT and neighboring utilities, maintaining reliable system operations.

Qualifications:

• NERC Transmission Operator or higher certification.
• Minimum of 5 years in power system operations or relevant experience/training.
• Thorough understanding of NERC and federal regulatory compliance.
• Knowledge of current ERCOT and TRE standards and procedures.
• Proficient with control systems, transmission operations, and generation characteristics.
• Strong computer, communication, and interpersonal skills, able to manage emergencies effectively.
• Ability to work independently in all operational conditions.
• Experience with weather impacts on facility operation and asset performance.
• Accountability, decision-making, and multitasking capabilities under variable conditions.
• Willingness to work 12-hour rotating shifts and be on call as needed.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and credentials
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Hybrid work schedule
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including parental leave
• 401(k) matching
• Collaborative work environment

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Only applications meeting the requirements will be reviewed. Apply Now