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Grid Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Our transmission planning team delivers technically rigorous power system studies and strategic planning support to utilities, developers, and grid operators navigating one of the most dynamic ...

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... Position Overview The Grid Integration Engineer I will be responsible for the electrical ...

Grid Integration Engineer I

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $95K/yr

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power ... Position Overview The Grid Integration Engineer I will be responsible for the electrical ...

Showing results 21-40

Grid Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do grid operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for grid operator in Chicago, IL is $18.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grid operator?

To thrive as a Grid Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, grid management principles, and typically an associate or bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with real-time monitoring software (such as SCADA systems), NERC certification, and standard operating procedures are commonly required. Strong decision-making skills, situational awareness, and effective communication are key soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities are vital to ensure the reliable and safe operation of electrical grids, minimize outages, and coordinate effectively with multiple stakeholders.

What does a grid operator do?

A typical shift for a Grid Operator usually involves monitoring the power grid, responding to changes in electricity demand, and coordinating maintenance or emergency responses. Operators work in control rooms, often as part of a rotating schedule that may include nights, weekends, or holidays to ensure 24/7 coverage. Daily tasks include analyzing system data, issuing instructions to field crews, communicating with utility partners, and recording detailed logs of events. You’ll collaborate with engineers, dispatchers, and other operators to maintain grid stability and quickly troubleshoot any issues that arise. This dynamic environment requires staying alert and ready to act decisively under pressure.

What is a grid operator?

A Grid Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling electrical power grids to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply. They manage power flow, respond to system disturbances, and coordinate with power plants and substations to maintain grid stability. Grid Operators use specialized software and real-time data to balance electricity demand and supply. They follow strict protocols to prevent blackouts and restore power efficiently in case of outages. This role requires strong analytical skills, quick decision-making, and in-depth knowledge of electrical systems.

Infographic showing various Grid Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,599 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Senior Project Engineer - Grid Modelling and Compliance

Invenergy LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Invenergy rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Invenergy is North America's largest privately held developer, owner, and operator of power infrastructure. With 25 years of trusted execution, we deliver reliable, affordable energy through a diverse portfolio that includes natural gas, solar, land-based wind, energy storage, transmission, and domestic manufacturing. Headquartered in Chicago, we develop, own, and operate large scale projects that power communities and support the energy future.
This position will be open for application for at least 3 calendar days from the posting date. This position will remain open for application based on business need, which may be before or after the 3-day posting window.
Job Description
Position Overview
As a Senior Project Engineer in the Grid Modeling and Compliance team, you will be leading and performing power system and equipment modeling activities to ensure compliance to various grid codes related to performance and modeling of Invenergy generation and transmission facilities and improve nationwide renewable energy reliability.
You will lead detailed studies utilizing specialized engineering software tools to evaluate project's performance per design and grid code compliance and also coordinate and review modeling work performed by engineering firms and Equipment Manufacturers. This work will include various renewable generation facilities such as Onshore and Offshore Wind, Solar, BESS and HVDC transmission links and associated converter stations.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and perform grid studies related to power electronic and power systems control of renewable generation, battery energy storage systems, and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) modeling and analyzing control performance utilizing industry standard analysis platforms such as PSS/E, PSLF, PSCAD, and ASPEN Oneliner.
  • Develop power system models for different renewable generation projects in PSS/E, PSLF, PSCAD, ASPEN Oneliner, and other modeling tools.
  • Lead and perform power plant controllers tuning in collaboration with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to achieve desired performance requirement established in grid codes.
  • Maintain up to date knowledge of NERC standards related to grid modeling, IEEE 2800 - 2022, IEEE P2800.2, WECC and various independent system operators
  • Support the interconnection and grid analysis, renewable project engineering, generation and transmission operation groups with power systems engineering expertise, including equipment design, specification studies, performance studies, commissioning support, troubleshooting, and forensic analyses.
  • Effectively communicate to both internal and external stakeholders by preparing detailed written reports or presentations describing analyses performed, solutions developed, and customer value propositions.
  • Attend on-site meetings and in person coordination meetings with Independent System Operator (ISO), interconnection utilities, Renewable Energy Generation and HVDC vendors and consulting engineers.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or similar field.
  • 5+ years of professional experience performing power system studies such as power flow analysis, transient stability, EMT analysis, and short circuit analysis, preferably acquired through working for transmission utilities, engineering firms, or renewable developers.
  • Knowledge of renewable generation operation, design, and control.
  • Experience with using power system modelling tools such as PSS/E, PSLF, PSCAD and ASPEN Oneliner.
  • Knowledge of EHV/HV electrical infrastructure (substations/switchyards, transmission lines, transformers, collector systems, etc.).
  • Project management skills and ability to coordinate work with different internal and external stakeholders including engineering firms and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
  • Ability to travel occasionally, if needed (up to 15%).
  • Eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Preferred Skills
  • Master' degree or higher in power engineering is a plus.
  • Specialized coursework in power system analysis, power electronics and control systems is desirable.
  • Programming experience in Python, VBA, or other languages is desirable.
  • Strong communication (verbal/written) and interpersonal skills involving the ability to work cross-functionally to understand requirements and provide recommendations.
  • Strong organization and planning skills with the ability to manage tasks across multiple projects.

Base Pay
$125,000.00 - $155,000.00 USD Annual
Bonus: 20% - 30%
The base pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target salary for the position. Invenergy considers a number of factors when determining base pay offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education and skills.
In addition to base pay, the total annual compensation package may also include eligibility to participate in our bonus program(s) which are designed to reward individual and company performance. Your recruiter can share more about bonus eligibility for this position during the hiring process.
Invenergy offers a variety of other benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401k, paid time off, etc.
Invenergy LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.

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