Computer Engineering Entry Level Jobs in Buford, GA

Real-Time Control and Data Acquisition Engineer I-V

Support the Real-Time Systems That Power Georgia's Electric Grid

Georgia System Operations Corporation (GSOC) is seeking a Real-Time Control and Data Acquisition Engineer to support the Energy Control Systems (ECS) group and the Real-Time Control and Data Acquisition (RCDA) team.

This role helps ensure the Energy Management System (EMS) accurately represents the generation, transmission, and distribution assets of OPC, GTC, and the EMCs. This real-time representation enables control room operators to economically dispatch generation, monitor facilities, control high-side protective and sectionalizing devices, monitor alarms and events, and collect reliable operating data.

This opportunity is ideal for an engineer who enjoys working at the intersection of power systems, EMS/SCADA technology, real-time data quality, system modeling, and operational reliability.

Candidates with deeper EMS/SCADA experience, advanced power system knowledge, and demonstrated technical leadership may be considered for higher-level classifications (Engineer III, IV, or V).

What You'll Do

As a Real-Time Control and Data Acquisition Engineer, you will play a key role in maintaining accurate, timely, and reliable EMS/SCADA data and system representations that support real-time operations.

You will:

• Support implementation of transmission, generation, and distribution projects into the EMS in accordance with RCDA standards.
• Assist with engineering reviews related to EMS functions, including database design and integrity, communications integrity, metering data timeliness and quality, and related system data needs.
• Support RCDA studies, services, and operational needs for GSOC, GTC, OPC, EMC members, and ECS associates.
• Help ensure EMS/SCADA systems provide accurate and timely information to support generation and transmission control room operations.
• Collaborate with RCDA team members on EMS design, consulting services, data quality, and real-time system support.
• Read and interpret electrical schematic diagrams and use technical documentation to support system modeling and data accuracy.
• Support reliable collection, presentation, and troubleshooting of real-time operational data.

At advanced levels, this role may also:

• Provide technical leadership and assistance to RCDA team members, operating personnel, design teams, and field personnel.
• Participate in and lead engineering analysis related to EMS/SCADA planning, operations, standards, policies, and procedures.
• Serve as a technical point of contact for external interfaces with departments, member cooperatives, partner organizations, or other companies.
• Troubleshoot complex real-time data communications issues and support long-term improvements to data quality and system performance.
• Lead or contribute to EMS/SCADA modernization, database integrity, display design, communications protocol, and operational technology initiatives.

What You Bring

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Engineering Technology, preferably Electrical Engineering, or another related field of study from an accredited college or university. A combination of experience and/or education may be considered.
• Strong interest in EMS/SCADA systems, power system operations, real-time data, and electric utility operations.
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematic diagrams.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to data accuracy.
• Strong customer service mindset and effective team communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Bulk Electric System Cyber Authorized Status as defined by GSOC policy and applicable NERC Reliability Standards.

Preferred Qualifications

EMS/SCADA & Real-Time Systems

• Experience with EMS/SCADA deployment, system design, communications protocols, database design, and display design.
• Experience with GE/Alstom EMS is preferred for advanced levels.
• Experience troubleshooting real-time data communications systems.
• Experience with Data Historian tools is preferred.
• Familiarity with DNP3 protocols, Oracle scripts, and basic UNIX commands is preferred for advanced levels.

Power Systems & Field Technology

• Understanding of three-phase power, phasor diagrams, and power calculations.
• Knowledge of metering installations, metering calculations, Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), RTU configuration, data communications, SCADA protocols, and electrical field instrumentation.
• Experience in power system operations is preferred, with additional substation and/or transmission line design experience desirable.

Tools & Data Skills

• Knowledge of CAD software and Microsoft Office tools.
• General understanding of computer databases and computer systems.
• Experience using database access techniques such as Access, SQL, and Oracle to resolve data issues or support data quality.

Leveling Overview

• Engineer I - Entry-level engineer with zero to two years of EMS/SCADA experience or equivalent electric utility experience; supports project implementation, system data accuracy, and RCDA team activities with guidance.
• Engineer II - Developing contributor with two or more years of EMS/SCADA experience and power system operations exposure; supports EMS/SCADA implementation, reviews, troubleshooting, and member support activities.
• Engineer III - Experienced contributor with four or more years of EMS/SCADA experience and power system operations knowledge; provides technical assistance and participates in engineering analysis.
• Engineer IV - Advanced contributor with six or more years of EMS/SCADA experience; leads complex technical work, supports EMS/SCADA planning and standards, and provides guidance on real-time system issues.
• Engineer V - Subject matter expert with eight or more years of EMS/SCADA experience; serves as a technical leader for EMS/SCADA strategy, real-time data quality, external coordination, and system reliability initiatives.

Additional Role Expectations

• Travel may be required up to 15% to support customers across Georgia, attend training, or participate in seminars and related business activities.
• Due to the critical nature and continuous operation of the Control Center, this role may be subject to calls and occasional on-call support.
• When contacted, the role may be required to assist with issue resolution, implement workarounds, or help devise workarounds to support ongoing operations.

Advantages of Working at GSOC

Working at GSOC means more than just a job--it's an opportunity to contribute to work that truly matters.

• Mission-Driven Impact

Your work directly supports the accuracy and reliability of real-time systems used to operate Georgia's electric grid.

• Critical Real-Time Technology

Work with EMS/SCADA systems, operational data, and power system models that support control room decisions and system reliability.

• Strong Values and Professional Standards

Work in an environment grounded in accountability, collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement where data quality, reliability, and operational excellence are core priorities.

Work Environment & Benefits

GSOC offers a professional, collaborative work environment with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive workplace.

Benefits include, but are not limited to: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) Match, Parental Leave, Educational Assistance, Annual Performance Bonus, Paid Time Off, and Volunteer Time Off.

Why Join GSOC

At GSOC, your work directly supports the systems and data that enable reliable, real-time operation of Georgia's generation, transmission, and distribution assets.

You'll collaborate with skilled engineers, operators, field personnel, and technology professionals in a mission-driven environment focused on operational excellence, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Apply Today

If you're ready to apply your engineering expertise to real-time control systems, EMS/SCADA data, and mission-critical electric grid operations, we encourage you to apply.

Georgia System Operations Corporation is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including veterans and disabled. We are a drug-free workplace. All applicants are subject to substance abuse testing.