Transmission System Operator Associate (Onsite)

Assists Transmission System Operator in coordinating, monitoring, and evaluating the real-time operation and control of LCRA’s transmission grid after gaining working knowledge of power system fundamentals and control room operations. Performs entry-level or training duties associated with transmission switching including power restoration and firm load shed. Works toward obtaining ERCOT System Operator Certification and NERC System Operator Certification as coordinated with and directed by management. This is also a good alternative career starting point for electrical engineering graduates discovering power systems. Typically, the pay will put you ahead of traditional electrical engineering entry level jobs.

You Will Be Trusted To

• Gains working knowledge of system operations, including general knowledge of LCRA’s transmission system, power system fundamentals, and all System Operations procedures, manuals, handbooks, plans and technology systems.
• Gains working knowledge of Real-Time Contingency Analysis (RTCA) and State Estimator tools and applications.
• Under supervision, monitors and controls (through SCADA) transmission and substation facilities to ensure transmission line and transformer loading within ratings.
• Under supervision, maintains a reliable transmission system voltage profile with operations within first contingency limits.
• Assists Transmission System Operator in restoring load and service to transmission and substation facilities, including during force majeure and mandated load shedding events. Assists Transmission System Operator in Black Start restoration activities.
• Under supervision, writes/checks/issues switching orders for transmission and substation facilities consistent with the Transmission Services Safety and Health Handbook, LCRA Transmission Switching Procedures Manual, and System Operations Procedures to ensure safety of field personnel while making transmission and substation facilities available for maintenance and construction activities.
• Ensures appropriate communications on all transmission events to LCRA System Operations management, LCRA Customers, and ERCOT.
• Logs all activities (planned and unplanned events) in the System Operator Daily Log to provide current system status.
• Monitors and reports all communication problems on RTU’s and the EMS to ensure vital communications are available for normal and emergency operations.
• Utilizes one-line diagrams as a tool in writing and checking switching orders.
• Assists Transmission System Operator in shedding firm load during ERCOT Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) event or any events where shedding firm load is necessary to maintain the integrity of the transmission grid and/or for the safety of personnel and equipment.
• Studies and works to obtain NERC Operator Certification and ERCOT System Operator Certification.
• Provides recommendations to System Operations management on operating procedures, EMS enhancements, and training topics to improve processes and procedures.
• Monitors weather conditions to ensure LCRA system operations readiness during adverse weather conditions. This general overview only includes essential functions of the job and does not imply that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instruction and to perform any other job-related duties requested by supervisor or management.
• Ability to remain alert over a 12-hour period in order to respond to a variety of emerging events
• Ability to keep current on changing policies, procedures, and regulations related to the transmission system
• Ability to work in a team environment Work Environment:
• Work hours are spent in an office, industrial, electrical substation and/or plant environment
• Work involves weekends, holidays and non-standard hours
• Work involves a rotating shift schedule
• Work involves call-out as necessary
• Field training in close proximity to energized high-voltage electrical equipment requiring use of personal protective equipment
• Work is confined to a particular work space which requires relief to leave
  
  

You Qualify With

• Two or more years experience in real-time operation and control of electric transmission and/or distribution systems, transmission equipment field operations or power plant operations, or other relevant experience.
• A degree(s) in electrical engineering technology, electrical technology, electronics or relevant field may be substituted per LCRA guidelines for certain years of experience.
• Fluent in the English language
  
  

You Are a Great Fit With

• Knowledge of the LCRA Transmission Switching Procedures Manual
• Knowledge of LCRA System Operations Procedures
• Knowledge of basic electricity fundamentals and typical electrical systems and equipment
• Knowledge of electric transmission and generation facilities
• Working knowledge of system one-line diagrams
• Knowledge of ERCOT Operating Guides
• Knowledge of NERC Operating Policies and Reliability Standards
• Knowledge of Black Start responsibilities including LCRA black start corridors
• Comprehensive knowledge of EMS and associated communications systems
• General understanding of field personnel operations
• Basic skill level in Energy Management System for transmission switching control
• Skill in analyzing and solving problems
• Basic skill in reading and interpreting diagrams and prints
• Skill in verbal and written communication
• Basic skill level in office productivity applications (such as email, word processing, spreadsheets, etc.)
• Skill in communicating effectively with team members, supervision / management and external organizations under normal and emergency conditions
  
  

Physical Demands

• Work involves frequent finger/hand manipulation in using a keyboard and mouse
• Work involves constant sitting
  
  

You Gain

• Competitive salary & medical, dental, vision and legal insurance
• Paid time off, including time for vacation, sick and family care leave
• 401(k) match up to 8% that includes a student loan 401(k) contribution program option
• Life and disability insurance
• Wellness program including wellness incentive
• Extensive learning & development programs
  
  

And more - all to create a compelling and rewarding work environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

LCRA provides equal employment opportunities and a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at LCRA are based on business need, job requirement and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or veteran status in accordance with applicable federal and state legal requirements governing nondiscrimination in employment.

LCRA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities. Applicants with a disability who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process can contact LCRA Human Resources (512) 578-4004 or email lcra.benefits@lcra.org . Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.