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This posting summary below is for the Trainee level, but this opportunity is a hierarchy to include the Operator level. The difference is that the Operator is expected to coordinate all of the below activities without direct supervision. A successful candidate hired at the Trainee level typically advances to the Operator level in about 6 months after certain requirements and certifications are met. Summary Under direct supervision, assist and support Balancing Authority Area operation between Xcel Energy Transmission System Operations, Xcel Energy Generation, Xcel Energy Distribution, Xcel Energy management, NERC, FERC, Regional Reliability and Transmission Organizations (RROs, RTOs), Reliability Coordinators, Purchasing Selling Entities, and electric transmission systems and other Balancing Authority Areas. Monitor Balancing Authority Area parameters. Ensure regulatory compliance. Monitor the consistent use of the Xcel Energy and other relevant Tariffs for transmission service. Monitor ETAG interface for proper utilization of NERC tags. Support approval of interchange schedules and verification of schedule approvals by other scheduling entities via electronic tagging or other applicable method. Ensure the accuracy of data associated with the Balancing Authority/Control Area operation.
Essential Responsibilities
- Support 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 guidelines, RRO guidelines, and when applicable, RTO guidelines. Ensure adequate energy supply for the Xcel Energy Balancing Authority Area.
- Ensure the accuracy of Energy Management System data relating to Balancing Authority Area interchange, Balancing Authority load, Transmission service schedules and interconnected tie lines. Assist and support the implementation of 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. Assist with nightly checkout with the adjacent Balancing Authority Area for Actual and Scheduled Interchange, as well as with the RTO as appropriate. Assist with nightly checkout for transmission Energy Accounting. Work with Network or other customers to ensure proper implementation of peak day interruptible loads.
- Assist and support implementation of 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
- Develop and 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. Work to obtain NERC Certification through annual completion of required training is a condition of continued employment. Perform other duties as assigned.
Xcel Energy has become a leader in the energy industry by demonstrating excellence in environmental performance. Our environmental commitment includes improving air quality, conserving resources, harnessing renewable energy, and protecting wildlife and habitats. Xcel Energy's vitality comes from our people. It takes professionals in engineering, customer service, linemen, marketing and sales professionals, energy traders, mechanics, finance and accounting professionals and many others to power our company. We offer competitive compensation and benefit programs that include a range of options and coverage levels. Requirements - Trainee - High school diploma or equivalent
- 3 years utility operations experience in electric distribution, transmission or power generation (3 years experience working with high-voltage auxiliary electrical systems, instrumentation & control or relay systems in manufacturing, refinery or chemical plant environment is equivalent)
- Successful completion of Edison Electric Institute (EEI) System Operator/Power Dispatching (SOPD) screening test is required
- NERC certification must be obtained within 1 year
- Demonstrated ability to respond quickly and appropriately in a real-time, stressful environment
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize job tasks
- Strong communication skills
- Knowledge of or ability to learn in a short period of time Xcel Energy, NERC, and FERC safety requirements
- Working rotating shifts required
Preferred - Electric Power Technology Certificate or equivalent program
Requirements - Operator (in addition to what is listed above) - 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
- Knowledge of or ability to learn in a short period of time Xcel Energy, NERC, and FERC safety requirements
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