Planning Engineer Lead - Dynamic Studies

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.

JOB SUMMARY

Provides comprehensive electrical engineering analysis and technical support for Large Load Batch stability assessment, NERC reliability studies, transmission planning, and interconnection reliability assessments pertaining to Large Loads integration within the ERCOT power system. Utilizes robust system modeling techniques, study tools and procedures for evaluating system performance, conducts stability analyses, formulates solutions to address system reliability requirements, and presents findings and recommendations in a clear and appropriate manner.

Level 3:

• Performs Batch stability screening studies for Large Load interconnection and transmission improvements using power system simulation tools.
• Designs and performs stability assessments, including but not limited to PV analysis, angular and voltage stability, and short circuit analysis, using simulation models (PSSE, VSAT, TSAT, PowerWorld, and/or related tools) under the direction of a senior engineer or management.
• Supports NERC FAC-002 studies for Large Load interconnections.
• Runs appropriate scenarios and sensitivity analyses to ensure robust study results, analyzes study accuracy, and assists in formulating conclusions and recommendations.
• Reviews stakeholder reports and dynamic models to ensure appropriate technical content and accuracy.
• Identifies stability constraints and assists in developing mitigation recommendations.
• Assists in preparing technical reports, presentations, and study documentation for ERCOT management, Market Participants, NERC, and other entities.
• Supports process improvements and automation efforts for planning and stability screening workflows.
• Assists market participants in updating and validating power system dynamic models.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and competing priorities.
• Commitment to reliability, compliance, technical accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Senior Level: includes all of the above in addition to:

• Serves as a technical Subject Matter Expert for Batch Zero stability screening.
• Makes independent decisions except in instances of unusually complex engineering scenarios.
• 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.
• Leads complex interconnection and reliability studies involving resources, Large Loads, and transmission system improvements.
• May coordinate, provide presentations, and participate in stakeholder meetings with ERCOT personnel, Market Participants, Transmission Service Providers, consultants, and Regulatory agencies.
• Fosters and leverages strong working relationships with team members and other internal departments.
• Leads professional expertise to guide projects and help teammates assigned by management.
• Acts as mentor and advisor to less experienced engineers/analysts.
• Leads multifunctional teams to obtain input, address comments, and perform studies.
• Demonstrates skills as an expert user of power system software applications and tools.
• Maintains knowledge of emerging trends and industry best practices related to system stability, interconnection studies, and reliability standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Lead Level: includes all of the above in addition to:

• Broadly applies advanced engineering principles, theories, and concepts with full-depth expertise in transmission planning, stability analysis, and interconnection studies.
• Independently defines problem statements, study scope, and analytical approaches for complex, ambiguous issues where established procedures may not exist.
• Leads and delivers highly complex stability studies of diverse scope, exercising sound judgment in selecting methods, assumptions, and solution strategies.
• Provides technical recommendations on issues that extend beyond standard practices, influencing project, program, or departmental outcomes.
• Serves as a recognized technical authority and primary point of contact, frequently engaging with Market Participants, TSPs, consultants, and external stakeholders.
• Operates with wide latitude in decision-making within assigned programs and projects; work is reviewed primarily for alignment with objectives and outcomes.
• Works independently with minimal supervision; receives general direction on new or strategic assignments.
• Acts as a lead engineer and resource to senior and junior staff, guiding, reviewing, and at times directing technical work.
• Represents the organization in project leadership roles and high-impact stakeholder or inter-organizational forums.

REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field required
• Or a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge equivalent to a major in such fields is required.

Work Experience Required

• Engineer 3 – Requires a minimum of 3 years job-related work experience (in excess of degree requirements stated above) as a power system engineer or similar type role. Experience within the electric utility industry preferred.
• Engineer, Sr. – Requires a minimum of 5 years job-related work experience (in excess of degree requirements stated above) of experience as a power system engineer or similar type role. Experience within the electric utility industry preferred.
• Lead – Requires a minimum 8 years job-related experience (in excess of degree requirements stated above) of experience as a power system engineer or similar type role. Experience within the electric utility industry preferred.

Preferred Work Experience:

• Experience performing stability studies.
• Experience supporting transmission planning assessments.
• Experience conducting large-scale dynamic stability analyses using power system simulation tools
• Experience analyzing large load dynamic behavior (e.g., data centers, industrial loads) and assessing system impacts.
• Experience programming and developing simulation automation tools (Python preferred).
• Experience assessing and mitigating oscillatory or voltage stability issues.
• Experience assisting in the development of improvements to transmission planning and interconnection study processes.
• Familiarity with NERC reliability standards, particularly FAC-002 and TPL standards.

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.
• 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.

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.

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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:

$144,000 - $198,000