Senior Generation System Operator

Job Summary

Step into a high-impact role where you will be at the center of keeping the power grid running safely and reliably. As a Senior GENCO System Operator, you will play a critical role in real-time operations: monitoring system conditions, directing generation resources, and making fast, informed decisions that keep energy flowing across Alliant Energy’s east and west balancing authorities. This is a dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same.

You’ll work alongside a skilled team to optimize generation performance, respond to system events, and ensure compliance with NERC, MISO, and MRO reliability standards. Your expertise will directly support the safe and efficient delivery of energy to the communities we serve. This role also offers the opportunity to grow your technical capabilities, including obtaining your NERC System Operator Certification within six months of hire.

This position operates on a rotational schedule and requires availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays. This is an on-site role and is not a hybrid opportunity.

Direct, dispatch, coordinate, and optimize the operation of all Alliant Energy and Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO) generating units during normal operation, alerts, warnings, and emergencies while maintaining reliability of the Alliant Energy east and west balancing authorities. Ensure compliance with all applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and MRO reliability standards as well as MISO, TOP, and Alliant Energy standards and procedures.

Assist in training activities, drill preparation, and other NERC required operator training activities. Start and stop generators in response to requests from MISO or to relieve emergency conditions as needed by the transmission operator. Utilize the generation management system (GMS) to monitor all critical aspects of the bulk electric system, including system load, frequency, tie‑line and generator status, and voltage levels.

Ensure quality and accuracy of real‑time telemetered data and respond to failures by manually updating data and coordinating failed equipment repair or replacement. Monitor real‑time interconnected tie line flows and perform nightly interconnection check‑out with neighboring utilities. Take or direct appropriate action during normal and emergency conditions to maintain the reliability of the bulk electric system, including implementation of interruptible load, direct load control, firm load shedding, or other load management resources.

Ensure accurate daily operations log and detailed records are maintained during shift. Engage in other duties as needed that support Alliant Energy’s values and help deliver on our purpose to serve customers and build stronger communities.

Bachelor’s Degree with emphasis in engineering, business, marketing or a related field.

NERC System Operator Certification is required or must be obtained within six months and maintained.

5 years of related experience including experience in various phases of power system operation.

• Knowledge of the company’s generation assets, generation management system, system operations, ATC and ITC Midwest transmission systems, and MISO market and operating procedures.
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with NERC standards and requirements.
• Ability to participate in NERC compliance audits.
• Ability to train new System Operators.
• Demonstrated ability to use computers and analytical methods to analyze various operational problems.
• Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work twelve (12) hour shifts on a varying or rotating schedule which may include night, holiday and weekend shifts.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

• Data Analysis
• Demand Planning
• Distribution Automation
• Emergency Response
• Power Monitoring
• Health & Safety Management
• Load Estimation
• Outage Management
• Power Distribution Systems Management
• Switching
• Power System Dispatch Strategy
• Utility Mapping

Pay Range:…