Generation Integration Engineer at ERCOT

Taylor, Texas, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

26 Apr, 26

Salary

131720.0

Posted On

26 Jan, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Power System Engineering, Data Analysis, Modeling, Interconnection Process, Compliance, Project Management, Technical Documentation, Software Development, Training, Collaboration, Problem Solving, Electrical Engineering, Database Management, Network Modeling, Communication, Regulatory Standards

Industry

Utilities

Description

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. Generation Integration Engineer – Small Generation is responsible for coordinating the integration of generation and energy storage resources into the ERCOT System from the initial application for entry into the Generation Interconnection or Change Request (GINR) process to the approval for commercial operations. This responsibility will include performing security screening studies, reviewing and approving Full Interconnection Study (FIS) scope and study reports, reviewing small generator System Impact Studies, reviewing ERCOT Provisional Conditions for Interconnection and Operation of Qualified Distribution Generation Resources (DGRs), review of the Standard Generation Interconnection Agreement (SGIA), review of compliance with ERCOT protocols and market rules, development and approval of modeling data for all phases of the interconnection, support for modeling the generation resource in the Network Model Management System (NMMS) model, Commissioning Plan review and Energization, Synchronization, and Commissioning checklist completion. Analyzes transmission network data including Transmission and Generation element parameters Works closely with ERCOT System Operations, System Operations Support, Market Operating Services Support, Client Services, System Planning and Metering Works with EMS and Transmission Planning load flow, Locational Marginal Pricing (LMP), and other analysis software to provide accurate power system models and associated cases Supports detailed model changes delivered by Network Operations Model Change Requests (NOMCRs) and Planning Model Change Requests (PMCRs) to maintain an accurate Network Operations Model, Annual Planning and other models contained within the ERCOT modeling system Assists with the validation of the Network Model Management (NMMS) and Model On Demand (MOD) databases, testing of the models and associated power flows Creates and utilizes data mining mechanisms and techniques to improve reporting accuracy and efficiency Provides training and evaluation of members of the Engineering Development Program (EDP) Coordinates and works with the NDSWG (Network Data Support Working Group) members on data exchange and transmission network model maintenance via the NOMCR process Coordinates and works with the SSWG (Steady State Working Group) members on data exchange and transmission network model maintenance via the PMCR process Coordinates and works with the SPWG (System Protection Working Group) members on data exchange and transmission network model maintenance via ASPEN and PSSE change files Reviews new technology implementations that affect the model, suggesting and implementing methods to accurately model these technologies Develops, maintains, and supports database infrastructure, model data exchange interfaces, and data export formats Manage updates and upgrades of NMMS and MOD applications to specify and implement desired new functionality Reviews and develops methods to increase model accuracy including data comparisons and validity checks Reviews Contingencies, Special Protection Systems, Remedial Action Plans, Mitigation Action Plans, Outages, and other issues that possibly affect models Reviews, drafts, and implements improvements to the modeling process Reviews, drafts, and presents: changes to the Protocols, Guides, procedures, training material for EDP and for Market Participants (MPs), and other supporting ERCOT documents relative to modeling Develops, enhances, and maintains reports associated with Protocol and Guide compliance criteria Provide comments and SME review of relevant NERC Standards up to and including participation on NERC Standard Drafting teams Essential Job Duties and Tasks: Level 1 Works under the direction of a senior level engineer or supervisor/manager to complete departmental goals and assignments Performs all work according to applicable rules and regulations including regulatory requirements and organization policies and procedures Learns how to use and develop software tools that enhance system reliability and departmental/organizational efficiencies Under direct supervision, participates in teams to obtain input, address comments and perform studies Engineer 2 & 3 Manages the integration of generation and energy storage resources through the entire generation interconnection process from the initial application to the approval for the commercial operations. Ensures that the interconnection of generation and energy storage resources are accomplished in a manner that maintains the reliability of the ERCOT System and complies with the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards, ERCOT Protocols, Planning Guide and the Operating Guides. Works closely with Market Participants (MPs), including Interconnecting Entities (IEs), Resource entities (REs), Distribution Service Providers (DSPs), and Transmission Service Providers (TSPs). Works closely with ERCOT System Operations, System Operations Support, Market Operating Services Support, Client Services, System Planning and Metering. Reviews and processes generation interconnection and full interconnection study (FIS) applications. Performs security screening studies to determine first contingency incremental transfer capability for each interconnection request. Attends FIS kickoff meetings, communicates and works with MPs and other ERCOT departments to solve issues related to generation interconnection projects. Attends Small Generator Review meetings between Interconnecting Entity, ERCOT and TDSPs for initial discussion on small generator interconnection process and general project information Review and approve submitted interconnection agreements, TSP and DSP study results, and generator technical specifications for submittal of model information. Review and approve DSP appropriate studies (System Impact Studies) to confirm DSP system will not preclude the DGR’s compliance with ERCOT’s requirements Review and approve any operational limitations due to DSP systems, as well as TDSP required system upgrades, timeline for those upgrades and sufficient financial security has been provided Reviews and approves Reactive Study reports, FIS scope and reports, and SGIA. Reviews and approves modeling data for all phases of the interconnection process, supports Network Modeling to model the generation resource in the NMMS model. Reviews Commissioning Plan and Energization, Synchronization, and Commissioning checklists. Reviews commissioning testing data, including but not limited to AVR/PSS, PFR and Reactive tests. Develops and maintains tools that automates the studies, reviews, and other processes. Provides training to less experienced engineers. Reviews, drafts, and implements improvements to the interconnection and modeling process Reviews, drafts, and presents changes to the Protocols, Guides, procedures, training material for other engineers and for MPs, and other supporting ERCOT documents relative to modeling. Senior - Above + Serves as a technical Subject Matter Expert for the department 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 May coordinate, provide presentations, and participate in stakeholder meetings with ERCOT personnel, Market Participants and industry Regulatory agencies Fosters and leverages strong working relationships with team and other internal departments Lends professional expertise to guide projects and help teammates assigned by manager 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, spreadsheet programs, and database programs Maintains knowledge of emerging trends and industry best practices EXPERIENCE No minimum work experience required in excess of degree requirements PREFERRED EXPERIENCE Experience as a power system engineer or similar type role preferred Experience within the electric utility industry preferred 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 Salary and level will be based on overall experience as determined by ERCOT. WORK LOCATION – Taylor, TX: Employees will be required to be on-site in Taylor, TX at minimum 2 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 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. #LI-Hybrid 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: $82,344 - $131,720 The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) manages the flow of electric power to 27 million Texas customers - representing about 90 percent of the state's electric load. As the independent system operator for the region, ERCOT schedules power on an electric grid that connects more than 54,100 miles of transmission lines and 1,250 generating units. ERCOT also performs financial settlement for the competitive wholesale bulk-power market and administers retail switching for 8 million premises in competitive choice areas. ERCOT is a membership-based 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation, governed by a board of directors and subject to oversight by the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Texas Legislature. ERCOT's members include consumers, cooperatives, generators, power marketers, retail electric providers, investor-owned electric utilities (transmission and distribution providers,) and municipal-owned electric utilities. ERCOT offers an excellent benefits package, which includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, long/short-term disability insurance, long-term care insurance, Section 125 Flexible Spending Account, and a Retirement Savings Plan. The medical, dental, vision, and quality-of-life benefits offered by ERCOT are second to none. Full-time employees are eligible to enroll in benefits on the first of the month following the date of hire. Additionally, 401(k) plans are available to help employees plan for the future. The ERCOT Internship Program provides college students the opportunity to develop their skills in a professional work environment. Each intern will receive unique projects and assignments that aim to solve real challenges facing the electric industry. ERCOT internships provide professional learning experiences that offer meaningful, practical work related to each student's desired career path. Eligible candidates should be enrolled in an academic bachelors or post graduate degree program maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The ERCOT Engineer Development Program (EDP) is a 12- to 16-month, self-paced program geared toward entry-level engineers looking to start a career in the power industry. Through the program, an EDP Engineer receives one-on-one mentoring, specialized training, and exposure to the work performed by each of the engineering groups at ERCOT. The program allows engineers to develop the fundamental skills necessary to reach their full potential while gaining an understanding of the types of engineering work ERCOT has to offer. EDP management supports participants each step of the way as they progress through the program. Upon completion, graduates are placed as full-time engineers within one of ERCOT’s engineering groups. The GMS Development Program (GDP) is designed to provide entry-level and early career professionals with the skills necessary to become successful Power System and Computer Engineers. The program, which is based in ERCOT’s Grid and Market Solutions (GMS) Department, will provide experience in day-to-day work and instruction in the fundamentals of electric power systems engineering, grid and market applications, software programming, and IT service and operations management. The GDP offers one-on-one mentoring, training, field trips, and special assignments. These assignments allow GDP engineers to become knowledgeable and familiar with the various business areas at ERCOT. The GMS leadership team prepares GDP engineers for a future career at ERCOT in power systems and computer engineering. The System Operator Development Program (ODP) is intended to combine real-time daily operations in an exciting work setting to prepare participants with the vital skills necessary to be successful in such a critical position — providing 24x7x365 on-demand support to manage the flow of electric power to more than 26 million Texas customers. If you are new to the industry, this program introduces you to the Bulk Electric System by combining introductory courses with the NERC Certification Exam Preparation Program in preparation to pass the NERC Certification Exam.

Responsibilities

The Generation Integration Engineer is responsible for coordinating the integration of generation and energy storage resources into the ERCOT System, overseeing the entire interconnection process from application to commercial operations. This includes performing studies, reviewing reports, and ensuring compliance with ERCOT protocols and NERC standards.