Project Lead - NERC Compliance

GDS Associates, Inc. is seeking a highly motivated Project Lead to support our Energy Reliability & Security group with a strong focus on NERC Operations & Planning (O&P) and Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Reliability Standards. This fully remote role is ideal for candidates with hands-on experience in NERC Compliance, electric utility operations, and regulated environments.

The Project Lead will assist senior staff in executing compliance programs, managing documentation and evidence, coordinating audits, and supporting clients in meeting Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), NERC, and Regional Entity requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance Program Support

• Support client compliance with FERC, NERC, Regional Entities, and RTO/ISO operational and technical requirements.
• Gather, organize, and validate data for self-certifications, periodic data submissions, NERC/Regional data requests, and compliance reporting.
• Maintain and track compliance documentation, evidence, and records to ensure audit readiness.

Audit & Monitoring Activities

• Provide logistical and documentation support during internal and external audits, including evidence preparation and tracking audit data requests.
• Assist in identifying, logging, and documenting compliance concerns, potential violations, and corrective action plans.
• Participate in mock audits, coordinating data requests, compiling evidence, and tracking gaps or deficiencies.

Documentation & Internal Controls

• Maintain and update client procedures, ensuring required review cycles are met.
• Follow up with responsible individuals to ensure timely completion of tasks, signatures, and procedural updates.
• Support development and documentation of internal controls, mitigation plans, and corrective actions.

Industry Monitoring & Team Support

• Monitor compliance-related communications and share relevant updates with internal teams.
• Assist with preparing materials and logistics for internal training sessions.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of GDS's NERC Compliance service offerings.

Qualifications

Experience and Skills:

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Civil, Nuclear, or Information Technology Engineering.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in an electric utility or related industry working with NERC Compliance.
• Technical knowledge of transmission system operations, generation resources, utility maintenance, and/or planning.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and project team collaboration skills.
• Experience working in a regulated environment; ability to travel up to 25%.

Preferred / Substitutable Credentials

• PE, PMP, or relevant credentials may substitute for experience.
• Additional desirable certifications include CISSP or other cybersecurity credentials.

GDS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please note that this position is not available for visa sponsorship.

Work Authorization: Citizens or Permanent Residents of USA. Cannot provide Visa sponsorship.

Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The typical salary range for this position is just one component of the firm's total compensation package.

Job Benefits

• Flex Benefits (Flexible Hours, Telecommuting)
• Competitive Pay
• Health Benefits (Medical, Dental & Vision, Company Paid Life, Long Term & Short-Term Disability)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Floating Holiday, Holidays)
• 401(k)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition Reimbursement

Keyword: Power, energy, PROMOD, PSS/E, RTO, ISO, energy delivery, powerworld