Electric System Operator Trainee

Overview

Full‑time System Operator Electric Level II position at North Western Energy. Responsibilities include monitoring and controlling the transmission system to maintain voltage and energy flow within operational limits, utilizing state estimation tools, and coordinating switching and clearance procedures with field personnel.

• Demonstrated safety record
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Completed System Operator Electric apprenticeship or equivalent experience (e.g., engineering, journeyman lineman, generation operator) combined with advanced apprenticeship training
• Previous electrical utility control center operating experience preferred (Balancing Authority interchange, Energy Imbalance Market, Transmission Operator functions)
• Must obtain NERC certification (Balancing Authority Transmission Operator [BATOP] or higher); current BATOP preferred
• Strong decision‑making under high‑stress situations
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and personal computer operation
• Experience with PI Software and SCADA desirable
• Rapid learning of specialized computer applications; adaptability to technology changes
• Get Into Energy – Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification is a plus

• Monitor and control North Western Energy's transmission system and tie‑lines
• Use state estimation to identify grid reliability risks and develop operation plans
• Implement real‑time actions for stable operations during normal and emergency conditions
• Coordinate switching and clearance procedures with field personnel and issue switching orders
• Track transmission work authorizations, including clearances and hot‑line holds
• Perform dispatch functions: energy flows, generator status, system load monitoring
• Maintain contingency reserves, enter events into EIM, and coordinate reserve sharing requests
• Execute Energy Imbalance Market tasks, passing CAISO EIM Sufficiency Tests and correcting failures
• Monitor transfer limits and EIM flows through BAAOP
• Evaluate Real‑Time EIM solutions for market infeasibilities and operational issues
• Communicate operational information and complete event reporting
• Work on demand across four desks; progress to System Operator Electric Level III with certifications and IBEW‑44 Journeyman qualification
• Adhere to NERC, FERC, and WECC standards and West Texas Commission Code of Business Conduct & Ethics
• Perform necessary maintenance and revision of the map board
• Work a rotating twelve‑hour shift cycle with overtime, weekend, and night work; minimal travel (≤10%)

Hourly rate: $39.53 to $53.52, based on qualifications. Benefits include: 401(k) with company match up to 4% and non‑elective contribution up to 7%; comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage; HSA; dependent care FSA; employee assistance program; company‑paid life insurance; tuition reimbursement; performance‑based wage increases; paid training programs; paid volunteer opportunities; paid time off starting on day one plus 11 paid holidays.

Open through November 26, 2025. Apply online at https://northw