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Nerc Certification Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NERC CIP Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$112K - $151K/yr

Audits, Self-Certifications & Reporting * Serve as the primary liaison with the Regional Entity (e.g., SERC, WECC, RF, MRO, Texas RE) and NERC during audits, spot checks, and self-certifications.

Serve as SME in all NERC compliance audits, self-certifications, spot checks, and investigations , both internal and external. Collaborate with NERC Compliance team in the preparation and submission ...

Construction Manager

Emporia, VA · On-site

$80 - $90/hr

OSHA 30 certification * NERC compliance / NERC CIP experience * Controls or I&C construction experience * Electrical/instrumentation experience * IT or network infrastructure implementation ...

Construction Manager

Emporia, VA · On-site

$80 - $90/hr

OSHA 30 certification * NERC compliance / NERC CIP experience * Controls or I&C construction experience * Electrical/instrumentation experience * IT or network infrastructure implementation ...

Construction Manager

Emporia, VA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

OSHA 30 certification * NERC compliance / NERC CIP experience * Controls or I&C construction experience * Electrical/instrumentation experience * IT or network infrastructure implementation ...

Ensure compliance with standards such as NERC CIP, ISO 27001, and corporate cybersecurity policies ... Microsoft certification or equivalent IT administration expertise (critical for domain controller ...

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Nerc Certification information

See Virginia salary details

$50.6K

$120.8K

$186.4K

How much do nerc certification jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for nerc certification in Virginia is $120,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $138,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is NERC certification and why is it important?

NERC certification refers to credentials issued by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation, which are required for professionals who operate and maintain the reliability of the bulk power system in North America. This certification ensures that operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties safely and effectively, helping to prevent power outages and maintain grid stability. NERC certification is crucial for compliance with regulatory standards and is often mandatory for certain roles in the energy industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a NERC-certified system operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a NERC-Certified System Operator, you need a strong understanding of power system operations, electrical grid reliability standards, and typically must hold a valid NERC certification. Proficiency with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA software, and outage management tools is essential for this role. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for handling emergency situations and coordinating with other teams. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of the bulk electric system.

What are the common challenges faced by professionals preparing for NERC certification, and how can they overcome them?

One of the main challenges for professionals preparing for NERC Certification is staying up-to-date with evolving regulatory standards and ensuring comprehensive understanding of complex reliability concepts. Balancing hands-on job duties with intensive study can also be demanding. To overcome these hurdles, candidates often join study groups, utilize official NERC training resources, and participate in simulation exercises to reinforce their knowledge. Employers may also offer structured training programs or mentorship from experienced NERC-certified operators, which can be invaluable for successful preparation.

What is the difference between Nerc Certification vs Substation Technician?

AspectNerc CertificationSubstation Technician
Required CredentialsCertification from NERC, technical training, industry experienceTechnical diploma or associate degree, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentPower grid control centers, compliance officesSubstations, field sites, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageUtility companies, grid operators, regulatory agenciesUtility companies, electrical contractors

While Nerc Certification focuses on compliance and reliability standards for the bulk power system, Substation Technicians perform hands-on maintenance and installation work at substations. Both roles are essential in the electric utility industry, with Nerc Certification emphasizing regulatory knowledge and Substation Technicians specializing in field operations.

How hard is it to get a NERC certification?

Obtaining a NERC certification requires passing a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge of reliability standards and industry practices. Candidates often need relevant work experience and training in power system operations or reliability to improve their chances of success.

What jobs can you get with a NERC certification?

NERC certification qualifies individuals for roles such as power system operator, reliability coordinator, substation technician, and electrical engineer in the electric utility industry. These jobs typically require knowledge of bulk power system operations, compliance standards, and often involve working in control centers or field environments. Certification ensures adherence to industry reliability standards and enhances employment prospects in energy and utility sectors.

What job categories do people searching Nerc Certification jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Nerc Certification jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Nerc Certification jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Nerc Certification job openings:

Infographic showing various Nerc Certification job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,784 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

NERC CIP Manager

EthosEnergy

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$112K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


EthosEnergy rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 284 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

The NERC CIP Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the plant's compliance program with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Reliability Standards for a Medium Impact Bulk Electric System (BES) facility as well as the O&P Standards for Generator Owner (GO) and Generator Operator (GOP). This role owns the day-to-day administration of the CIP and O&P compliance program, coordinates with plant operations, IT/OT, physical security, and engineering teams, and serves as the primary point of contact for internal audits, self-certifications, and Regional Entity / NERC audits. The CIP Manager ensures the facility's cyber and physical security controls, documentation, and evidence retention practices meet all applicable CIP standards and internal risk management expectations.

Job Responsibilities
  • Compliance Program Management
  • Own and maintain the site's NERC CIP compliance program for all applicable standards, including CIP-002 (BES Cyber System Categorization), CIP-003 (Security Management Controls), CIP-004 (Personnel & Training), CIP-005 (Electronic Security Perimeters), CIP-006 (Physical Security), CIP-007 (System Security Management), CIP-008 (Incident Reporting & Response Planning), CIP-009 (Recovery Plans), CIP-010 (Configuration Change Management & Vulnerability Assessments), CIP-011 (Information Protection), and CIP-013 (Supply Chain Risk Management).
  • Maintain the BES Cyber System (BCS) and BES Cyber Asset (BCA) inventory, ensuring accurate categorization and Impact Rating documentation.
  • Develop, review, and update CIP and O&P policies, procedures, and work instructions on required review cycles.
  • Track and manage evidence collection to demonstrate continuous compliance; maintain audit-ready documentation at all times. Audits, Self-Certifications & Reporting
  • Serve as the primary liaison with the Regional Entity (e.g., SERC, WECC, RF, MRO, Texas RE) and NERC during audits, spot checks, and self-certifications.
  • Lead internal mock audits and gap assessments to proactively identify and remediate compliance risks.
  • Prepare and submit Self-Reports, Mitigation Plans, and evidence packages for any identified potential violations.
  • Report compliance status, risks, and remediation progress to plant leadership and corporate compliance stakeholders. Cross-Functional Coordination
  • Partner with IT, OT/ICS, engineering, and physical security teams to ensure CIP requirements are embedded in system design, procurement, and change management processes.
  • Coordinate with HR and site security on personnel risk assessments, background checks, and access management required under CIP-004.
  • Work with vendors and contractors to ensure supply chain risk management requirements (CIP-013) are met for new and existing systems.
  • Support incident response exercises and tabletop drills in coordination with CIP-008 requirements. Training & Awareness
  • Develop and deliver annual CIP training and security awareness programs for authorized personnel.
  • Track training completion and access authorization records to ensure ongoing compliance with CIP-004. Continuous Improvement
  • Monitor changes to NERC CIP standards, Requirements, and Regional Entity guidance; assess impact to the facility and update programs accordingly.
  • Recommend and implement process improvements, automation, and tools to strengthen compliance posture and reduce manual effort.
  • Maintain awareness of industry best practices, emerging threats, and lessons learned from other entities' violations (Lessons Learned, NERC Alerts).

Required Skills / Knowledge
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of NERC CIP Reliability Standards as applied to Medium Impact BES Cyber Systems.
  • Experience preparing for and supporting Regional Entity or NERC compliance audits.
  • Working knowledge of Generator Owner and Generator Operator NERC compliance activities as they pertain to NERC O&P Standards.
  • Strong understanding of electronic and physical security perimeter concepts, access control, and change management in an OT/ICS environment.
  • Excellent written communication skills, particularly around policy writing, audit evidence packages, and technical documentation.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain unescorted access authorization per CIP-004 requirements, including successful completion of a personnel risk assessment (PRA).
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of NERC CIP Reliability Standards as applied to Medium Impact BES Cyber Systems.
  • Experience preparing for and supporting Regional Entity or NERC compliance audits.
  • Working knowledge of Generator Owner and Generator Operator NERC compliance activities as they pertain to NERC O&P Standards.
  • Strong understanding of electronic and physical security perimeter concepts, access control, and change management in an OT/ICS environment.
  • Excellent written communication skills, particularly around policy writing, audit evidence packages, and technical documentation.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain unescorted access authorization per CIP-004 requirements, including successful completion of a personnel risk assessment (PRA).
  • Must be able to pass a personnel risk assessment (PRA), including criminal history background check, as required under CIP-004-6/7.
  • U.S. work authorization required (or per applicable local employment law).

Experience
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in NERC CIP compliance, industrial control systems (ICS/OT) security, or utility regulatory compliance.
  • Experience at a generation facility, transmission owner, or other registered NERC entity.
  • Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISA, CISM, GICSP, or NERC-specific compliance training/certificates.
  • Familiarity with compliance management software/GRC tools used for evidence tracking and audit management.
  • Experience with High Impact BES Cyber Systems or transitioning a facility between impact categories.
  • Project management experience (PMP or equivalent) for coordinating cross-departmental remediation efforts.

Education Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Subject to NERC CIP training and re-certification requirements on a recurring basis

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to walk, reach, climb, stoop and lift (up to 50 pounds).
  • Primarily office-based at the generating facility with regular access to control rooms, substations, and secured areas requiring unescorted access authorization.
  • Some travel may be required for Regional Entity audits, industry conferences, or corporate compliance meetings.
  • On-call availability may be required to support incident response activities under CIP-008.

What We Offer
  • Annual Salary Range for this position is $145,000.00 - $165,000.00 based on experience and skills set
  • Supportive company culture that values its employees
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision & 401 K Plan
  • Paid Parental Leave, Time Off & Holidays
  • Extra money in your paycheck - Employee Referral Bonus
  • Personal Development & Career Succession Planning
  • Company sponsored Perks & Discount programs


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