Planning Engineer - SR

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 diversity and inclusion at all levels of our company. It is the cornerstone of our corporate values of accountability, leadership, innovation, trust, and expertise. We accept and celebrate those that join us and recognize that individuals with a wide variety of talents, ideas, and experiences propel the innovation that drives our success. A diverse and inclusive workforce strengthens us and allows for a collaborative environment to solve the challenges that face our industry today and in the future.
ERCOT offers the flexibility to work both in and out of the office within the state of Texas, providing our employees with an enhanced work life balance.

As a Planning Engineer at ERCOT, you will enter a collaborative place to influence and shape the future design of the electric power grid while developing your engineering and leadership skills.  Our world class system planning teams work creatively to perform steady-state and dynamic contingency analysis using the most advanced power flow models.

Provides engineering analysis and technical support to ensure continuing reliable operations of the electric power grid in compliance with NERC Standards, ERCOT Protocols and Market Guides.

JOB SUMMARY 

Perform economic analysis and long-term reliability studies for the planning and operation of the electric power system.  Implements and develops production cost models for the ERCOT systems,  conducts comprehensive transmission planning analysis of the ERCOT System and evaluates the economic benefits of proposed transmission system upgrades, develops tools and procedures to monitor and control the system, performs system studies, analyzes simulated or actual operating results, develops solutions to current or future system issues, and appropriately reports findings and recommendations.

• Designs and performs production cost modeling (UPLAN) studies to accomplish economic transmission planning.
• Designs and performs steady-state contingency analyses using powerflow models (PSSE, VSAT, TSAT, or Powerworld) .
• Prepares near term and long-term transmission planning assessments in accordance with NERC Reliability Standards, ERCOT Protocols and Planning Guides.
• Leads and performs studies to provide recommendations on large scale transmission projects to meet reliability criteria and improve economic efficiency of the ERCOT System.  Prepares reports and presents results to stakeholders. May provide on-the-job training or oversee the work of other developers.

JOB DUTIES

• 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
• 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.
• May provide on the job training or help oversee the work of other engineers/analysts.
• May act as mentor and advisor to less experienced engineers/analysts.
• Typically works independently on assignments and projects.
• Participates in multifunctional teams to obtain input, address comments and perform studies.
• Assists in developing tools, processes and procedures that enhance system reliability and departmental/o