Balancing Authority Operator Job In Golden Colorado

• Monitoring Balancing Authority Area parameters and ensuring regulatory compliance through our operations
• Monitoring the consistent use of the Xcel Energy and other relevant Tariffs for transmission service
• Monitoring ETAG interface for proper utilization of NERC tags
• Approving all interchange schedules and verify all schedule approvals by other scheduling entities via electronic tagging or other applicable method and implement all Interchange schedules
• Exercising independent judgment in problem solving and take action to maintain Balancing Authority Area reliability according to NERC, RRO and when applicable, RTO criteria
• Ensuring the accuracy of data associated with the Balancing Authority Area operation.

• Maintain the security and reliability of the Balancing Authority Area consistent with NERC requirements, ensuring Xcel Energy Balancing Authority Area operation parameters are within Xcel Energy Balancing Authority Area operating guidelines, NERC standards, RRO standards, and when applicable, RTO guidelines. Ensure adequate energy supply for the Xcel Energy Balancing Authority Area. This position has responsibility for the real-time operation of the interconnected Bulk Electric System
  
• Ensure the accuracy of Energy Management System data relating to Balancing Authority Area interchange, Balancing Authority Area load, Transmission service schedules and interconnected tie lines. Implement Xcel Energy Balancing Authority Area and Transmission Provider energy tagging function. Implement Xcel Energy Balancing Authority Area scheduling system and provide appropriate interface with the RTO when required. Write and maintain a chronological log of Balancing Authority Area events including, but not limited to, transmission service curtailments and requests for emergency energy. Perform nightly checkout with the adjacent Balancing Authority Area for Actual and Scheduled Interchange, as well as with the RTO as appropriate. Perform nightly checkout for transmission Energy Accounting. Work with Network or other customers to ensure proper implementation of peak day interruptible loads.
  
• Implement Emergency Procedures including, but not limited to, emergency generation replacement, unscheduled (parallel) flow relief, emergency firm load shedding and blackstart recovery.
  
• Maintain close communications with AGC dispatch to ensure safety, reliability and regulatory compliance with respect to transmission operations. Jointly develop, review and approve plans by AGC to return the Balancing Authority Area to recognized system parameters. Order Balancing Authority Area generation on line or order redispatch as necessary to maintain Balancing Authority Area security.
  
• Monitor transmission system conditions using all available tools. Communicate system status to the Reliability Coordinator, affected electric transmission systems and Balancing Authority Areas, and Xcel Energy management. Work with the Transmission System Operator and Xcel Energy generating plants in system restoration. Work with Network customers to ensure all generation and scheduling needs are met.
  
• Monitor proper tagging of OASIS transmission service requests for Xcel Energy and all other relevant tariffs.
  
• Back-up the Transmission Operator and the Network Reliability Leader (NRL) relating to transmission service requests and help resolve transmission service request problems.
  
• Maintain thorough knowledge and understanding of Balancing Authority Area operation, including but not limited to new operating practices, NERC compliance issues, Xcel Energy and regional tariffs, FERC, RRO and RTO requirements. Participate in annual training plans designed to enhance expertise and assist other team members in expanding overall knowledge. Maintaining NERC Certification through annual completion of required training is a condition of continued employment. Perform other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent

Experience

• 3 years utility operations experience in electric distribution, transmission or power generation or 3 years experience working with high-voltage auxiliary electrical systems, instrumentation & control or relay systems in manufacturing, refinery or chemical plant environment
• 3 months of Balancing Authority Area operations experience
• Demonstrated ability to maintain security and reliability of the Balancing Authority Area without direct supervision
• Successful completion of Edison Electric Institute (EEI) System Operator / Power Dispatching (SOPD) screening test
• Current NERC certification
• Demonstrated ability to respond quickly and appropriately in a real-time, stressful environment
• Knowledge of or ability to learn in a short period of time Xcel Energy, NERC, and FERC safety requirements
• This position requires working rotating shifts

• Successful completion of certificate program in Electric Power Technology or equivalent program