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Nerc System Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Substation Project Engineer

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$101K - $129K/yr

... control systems in a wide variety of contexts (utilities, transportation, building, and Federal ... Incorporate future-ready techniques, concept development, operating strategies, and various design ...

Substation Project Engineer

Lake Oswego, OR · Hybrid

$101K - $129K/yr

... control systems in a wide variety of contexts (utilities, transportation, building, and Federal ... Incorporate future-ready techniques, concept development, operating strategies, and various design ...

The Director of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Operations & Maintenance Business Line ... Work with the Compliance Team to ensure BESSspecific NERC, NFPA, and environmental compliance.

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Nerc System Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$11

$34

$88

How much do nerc system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for nerc system operator in Oregon is $34.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $40.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nerc System Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a NERC System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electric power systems, grid operations, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field and the NERC certification. Familiarity with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA systems, and outage coordination tools is critical. Strong decision-making abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to perform under pressure help operators excel. These competencies ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the power grid in compliance with federal standards.

What is a typical workday like for a NERC System Operator?

A typical day for a NERC System Operator involves monitoring real-time grid conditions, responding to alarms, coordinating planned and unplanned outages, and communicating with field personnel and neighboring utilities to maintain system reliability. Operators often work in a control room setting, using advanced software and monitoring equipment to oversee power flows and facilitate rapid responses to disturbances. The role requires vigilance, as operators must be ready to take swift, decisive action during emergency events or system anomalies. Shifts may cover nights, weekends, and holidays due to the 24/7 nature of grid operations, but this dynamic environment also offers opportunities to develop specialized expertise and advance into senior roles within grid management or operations planning.

What is a NERC System Operator job?

A NERC System Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the electrical power grid to ensure a reliable and balanced flow of electricity. They follow North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards to prevent outages and respond to system disturbances. Operators communicate with power plants, substations, and other entities to manage grid stability and emergency situations. They typically work in real-time control centers and must be NERC-certified to perform their duties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Nerc System Operator jobs in Oregon? For Nerc System Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Nerc System Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Nerc System Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Nerc System Operator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, 51% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 78% Physical, 13% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,883 per year, or $34.6 per hour.
Substation Project Engineer

Substation Project Engineer

WSP

Lake Oswego, OR • On-site

$101K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 58 rated business consultants


Job description


WSP is currently initiating a search for a Substation Project Engineer for our Lake Oswego, OR office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement.
This Opportunity
Provides technical assistance and guidance for multi-site/phase due diligence, investigation, remediation, impact assessment, permitting, design, development, and construction of utility, industrial, and commercial scale projects in the public and private sector. Routinely assist with the research, design, concept development, and construction of transmission and distribution substations, power distribution, power regulation, renewable energy, as well as protection and control systems in a wide variety of contexts (utilities, transportation, building, and Federal, State, and local government projects). Substantiates reports and documentation regarding material, installations, component, and construction specifications. Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards for design, safety, and functionality.
Your Impact
  • Determine well-defined methods for collecting, compiling, and analyzing data relating to substation components, equipment specifications for procurement package development and pricing, IFR/IRC detailed design and review processes, and IEEE/NESC Standards/NERC regulations for design work.
  • Review and advice on third-party design documents, procurement lists, and project plans.
  • Perform professional and more complex electrical engineering work relating to the design of single line, three line, wiring diagrams, general arrangement, substation layout and bus arrangement, grounding grid design and lightning protection in conformance with applicable rules, standards, and construction or operating permits.
  • Incorporate future-ready techniques, concept development, operating strategies, and various design requirements with equipment sizing and cabling, AC/DC panel design, and conduit and trenching design strategies that account for the safety and functionality of end-users, systems, and infrastructure.
  • Support senior engineers with research and recommendations of components identified in design requirements, as well as field equipment applications and operations.
  • Verify the characteristics of a site, providing technical input and guidance on various engineering, design, testing maintenance modifications, and construction procedures and issues.
  • Develop electrical calculations for loads, equipment sizing, grounding touch and step potentials, short circuit study, protective device coordination, one-line diagram development, protective relaying, and substation switchyard layouts.
  • Develop plans, specifications, and cost estimates; preparing construction safety and phasing plans, and updating electrical infrastructure layout plans that require coordination with owners, other disciplines, sub-consultants, and clients.
  • Work as an individual or as part of a cross-functional team of engineers, planners, scientific, and construction professionals to execute project work on multiple concurrent projects, assist with laying out installations, calculating costs and quantities of material/equipment/labor, and ensuring project work conforms with specifications, permit applications, compliance documentation, and regulatory and technical analysis memos.
  • Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, accurate reports, sketches, calculations, and illustrations for the interpretation or presentation of data, findings, or analyses.
  • Maintain a high level of quality and responsiveness to client requirements in alignment with Pickett's standards.
  • Provide guidance and training to entry-level engineers.
  • Prepare technical reports and presentations that explain research, findings, and recommendations to improve, prevent, control, restore, or address design and/or construction issues or opportunities.
  • Assist in the analysis, evaluation, and interpretation of data obtained during field investigations, offering input with developing action plans for moderate- to high-level risk mitigation activities.
  • Prepare and implement site Health and Safety Plans (HASPs).
  • Comply with regulatory requirements pertaining to the data integrity, documentation, procedures, training, monitoring systems, and record compliance and retention.
  • Interact with regulatory agencies, subcontractors, and clients in a confident and professional manner.
  • Remain current in latest electrical engineering techniques and practices.
  • Work collaboratively with other engineers and planners on projects with infrastructure authorities on Federal, State, regional, and locally funded improvement and development projects.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • 5 to 7 years of relevant post education experience as an electrical engineer providing design deliverables for large capital projects.
  • Engineering Intern, Engineer in Training, or equivalent certification
  • Experience working with Operations and project controls for purposes of reporting and proposal development.
  • Proficient knowledge of electrical engineering principles, practices, process, design/build, and the application to permitting and project work-related issues.
  • Experience with infrastructure planning, design, and construction management, including active involvement in a variety of rehabilitation and new design projects.
  • Working knowledge of relevant engineering and electrical construction laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Ability to make technical computations and calculations involving the application of electrical engineering principles, understanding plans and specifications, and making factual comparisons to the appropriate regulations.
  • Project management experience with small to mid-level projects including tracking hours and expenses for project work.
  • Ability to plan and conduct inspections and investigations on various aspects of the construction and design of facilities or structures, applying applicable regulations and policies.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Highly capable self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently and provide guidance and leadership to junior team or project members, with strict adherence to QA/QC.
  • Proficiency with technical writing, office automation, discipline-specific design software (i.e., CADD, Aspen, CAPE, ETAP), AutoCADD electrical, technology, math principles, predictive models, spreadsheets, and tools.
  • Developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to apply technical knowledge to reach conclusions from testing results, data collation, statistical analysis and arriving at the most effective, economical, and logical solution.
  • Ability to assertively direct others in the field such as subcontractors and others to consistently complete tasks safely and efficiently.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Professional Engineering license (PE).
  • Experience managing small to mid-size projects.
  • 10-Hour OSHA Health & Safety Training (HAZWOPER) (29 CFR 1910.120) preferred.

WSP Benefits:
WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.
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About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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