The California Independent System Operator (ISO) manages the flow of electricity across the high-voltage, long-distance power lines that make up 80 percent of California's power grid. We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by operating the grid reliably 24/7.

As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market that is designed to diversify resources and lower prices. It also grants equal access to 25,865 circuit-miles of power lines and reduces barriers to diverse resources competing to bring power to customers.

The California ISO's function is often compared to that of air traffic controllers. It would be grossly unfair for air traffic controllers to represent one airline and profit from allowing that company's planes to go through before others. In the same way, the California ISO operates independently—managing the electron traffic on a power grid we do not own—making sure electricity is safely delivered to utilities and consumers on time and reliably.

Under the general direction of the Shift Supervisor, monitors and controls the generation resources managed by the California ISO, consistent with NERC Reliability Standards, WECC Regional Reliability Standards, applicable ISO Tariff and procedures to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the ISO controlled grid. Creates and maintains accurate reports and logs of system operations.

What's In it for You

Our purpose is to lead the way to tomorrow's energy network. Make a difference and impact millions of people who depend on electricity in their everyday lives.

• You get to work on interesting and challenging assignments that will help grow your skill set.
• You will work in an extremely collaborative environment inside our LEED certified Folsom, California campus.
• You will be challenged, be a part of a winning team, and your contributions will be rewarded and recognized.

What You Will Be Doing

• Coordinates the day-to-day operation of the generation resources managed by the California ISO and controls the applicable generation as appropriate to meet intertie obligations, emergency responses, and WECC Regional Reliability Standards and NERC Reliability Standards in support of the transmission system and the reliable operation of the Balancing Authority Area and energy market.
• Pre-dispatches generation in accordance with operating procedures and related guidelines to ensure system reliability.
• Monitors electric usage in California and initiates purchases or sales as appropriate to maintain the electric system at scheduled frequency.
• Estimates upcoming electricity needs for California based on forecasted local area requirements; plans and schedules generation to meet electricity needs, load requirements, and contractual obligations as appropriate.
• Creates and maintains accurate logs to document generation operations, including instructions given, information received and actions taken.
• As appropriate, exercises authority over generation operations personnel at the participating and non-participating generating entities and UDCs regarding system reliability and system emergencies.
• Exercises independent judgment and takes corrective action under normal and emergency conditions.
• Takes action, as necessary, to maintain system reliability, up to and including the shedding of firm customer load.
• Takes or directs appropriate real-time actions, as necessary, under normal and emergency conditions, to maintain system reliability in compliance with WECC Regional Reliability Standards, NERC Reliability Standards, and ISO procedures.
• Procures additional ancillary services as needed.
• Adheres to and supports the Core Values of the ISO.
• Performs related duties and activities as appropriate.

Level of Education and Discipline

• A formal training program after high school or equivalent education, training and experience. Discipline typically requires a background in electrical engineering plus power system operations and/or generation operations.

Amount of Experience

• Three or more years in California or other major WECC transmission grid or Balance Authority Area, or equivalent experience.

Certifications

• NERC System Operator Certification required

Type of Experience

• Requires professional level understanding of interconnected electric system operations and various generating station operations including some combination of the following:
  • Generation dispatch or generating station experience
  • Real-time operations
  • Knowledge of generators and power grid operations.
• Must be able to perform effectively under emergency and high-pressure situations and work effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills required.

The pay range for this position is $88.51 - $101.58 / hour.