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Power Grid Operator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Engineer

Calgary, AB · Hybrid

$100K - $150K/yr

... Grid Compliance * Support interconnection processes with utilities and transmission operators ... Power systems * Utility-scale infrastructure * Electrical design and construction Technical ...

... operating single line diagrams, layouts, sections, bus calculation/selections, ground grid, cable ... Manufacturer experience of power transformer, circuit breaker, AIS/GIS switchgear, AC/DC inverter ...

... operating single line diagrams, layouts, sections, bus calculation/selections, ground grid, cable ... Manufacturer experience of power transformer, circuit breaker, AIS/GIS switchgear, AC/DC inverter ...

... switchgear, and power-system equipment * Protection, control, SCADA, automation, or grid ... Experience in an owner-operator environment and direct experience with utility-scale battery ...

Power Grid Operator information

What are some common challenges faced by Power Grid Operators during emergency situations?

Power Grid Operators often encounter significant challenges during emergencies, such as severe weather events or unexpected equipment failures. In these situations, operators must quickly assess real-time data, make critical decisions to balance supply and demand, and coordinate with field crews and other utilities to restore service. Maintaining clear communication and adhering to strict safety protocols are crucial, as is the ability to remain calm under pressure. These challenges make adaptability and strong problem-solving skills essential for success in the role.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Power grid operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs in the energy sector may include senior engineers or executives with extensive experience and certifications. Most roles paying this level of income require advanced skills, significant responsibility, and often a combination of education and industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Power Grid Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Grid Operator, you need a strong understanding of electrical systems, grid operations, and safety protocols, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA software, and NERC certification is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for handling real-time grid issues and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure reliable grid performance, quick response to emergencies, and compliance with industry regulations.

What does a power grid operator do?

A power grid operator monitors and controls the flow of electricity across the power grid to ensure reliable delivery. They use specialized control systems and tools to balance supply and demand, respond to outages, and maintain system stability, often working in control rooms on rotating shifts. Certification and technical knowledge of electrical systems are typically required for this role.

How stressful is it being a grid operator?

Power grid operators work in high-pressure environments where quick decision-making is essential to maintain reliable electricity supply and prevent outages. The job involves monitoring complex systems, responding to emergencies, and often requires shift work, which can contribute to stress levels. Proper training, experience, and adherence to safety protocols help manage the stress associated with the role.

How to get hired as a power plant operator?

To become a power plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical school programs. Relevant skills include understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, and obtaining certifications such as a state license or operator certification can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Power Grid Operator vs Substation Technician?

AspectPower Grid OperatorSubstation Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may need technical certifications or associate degreesRequires technical certifications, associate degree, or technical training in electrical systems
Work EnvironmentMonitoring and controlling power flow across the grid, often in control rooms or remote stationsMaintaining, repairing, and installing substation equipment on-site
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, power companies, grid operatorsUtilities, power companies, substation service providers

While both roles are essential in the electrical power industry, Power Grid Operators focus on overseeing and controlling the flow of electricity across the grid, often working in control centers. Substation Technicians handle the physical maintenance and repair of substation equipment. Both require technical knowledge and certifications but differ mainly in their daily tasks and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Power Grid Operator jobs in Alberta? For Power Grid Operator jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Grid Operator jobs in Alberta look for? The top searched job categories for Power Grid Operator jobs in Alberta are:
Infographic showing various Power Grid Operator job openings in Alberta as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Gas Power Generation Engineer

Gas Power Generation Engineer

Lee Group Search

Calgary, AB

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

 

Gas Power Generation Engineer


Location: Calgary, Alberta (Hybrid/Office-Based)


Position Overview


A growing energy developer is seeking a Gas Power Generation Engineer to support the early-stage design, technical definition, and development of gas-fired power generation projects in Alberta. This role will be critical in advancing power generation assets intended to serve large-load customers, including future data center opportunities.

This is a project development and engineering oversight role focused on defining the right plant design, preparing accurate technical requirements, and ensuring outside developers, consultants, and engineering partners deliver technically sound, commercially practical, and Alberta-compliant solutions. It is not intended to be a primarily hands-on plant operations position.

The successful candidate will provide internal technical leadership for gas-fired generation projects, helping ensure projects are properly scoped from the beginning, with appropriate gas turbine selection, reliable fuel supply planning, and strong coordination across electrical, substation, transmission, and permitting disciplines.


Key Responsibilities


  • Support the design and technical definition of gas-fired power generation projects, including projects up to approximately 200 MW.
  • Evaluate plant configuration options, including simple-cycle and combined-cycle concepts, turbine selection, balance-of-plant requirements, emissions considerations, fuel supply, and operational requirements.
  • Define technical requirements for RFPs issued to developers, engineering firms, vendors, and contractors.
  • Review project concepts, design documents, schedules, cost estimates, permitting strategies, and execution plans prepared by external partners.
  • Serve as the owner’s internal technical representative for gas-fired generation projects.
  • Coordinate with gas suppliers, pipeline operators, and other stakeholders regarding gas supply, interconnection, delivery pressure, capacity, and reliability requirements.
  • Collaborate with electrical engineering teams on substation design, transmission interconnection, grid requirements, and export capacity planning.
  • Provide technical input for Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) filings, AESO requirements, transmission facility owner coordination, environmental studies, and related approvals.
  • Review technical specifications, equipment selections, turbine packages, vendor proposals, interconnection studies, commissioning plans, and project risks.
  • Identify technical, schedule, cost, regulatory, and constructability risks early in project development.
  • Support budgeting, procurement strategy, contractor selection, owner’s engineering activities, and technical decision-making through development, permitting, construction, and commissioning.


Required Qualifications


  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Power Engineering, Energy Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Direct experience with gas-fired power generation projects, preferably in Alberta or Western Canada.
  • Strong understanding of gas turbines, power plant design, balance-of-plant systems, gas supply, pipeline interconnection, and power generation project development.
  • Experience working with developers, EPC contractors, engineering firms, equipment suppliers, gas suppliers, utilities, transmission facility owners, or regulatory stakeholders.
  • Ability to review and challenge technical work prepared by external consultants, developers, and vendors.
  • Knowledge of Alberta power generation permitting, AESO interconnection processes, AUC approvals, and transmission facility owner coordination is strongly preferred.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across engineering, development, regulatory, commercial, and external stakeholder groups.
  • Must be legally entitled to work in Canada. Sponsorship is not available for this role.


Preferred Qualifications


  • Experience with 100–200 MW gas-fired generation projects.
  • Experience preparing or supporting RFPs, owner’s engineering scopes, technical specifications, feasibility studies, or permitting packages.
  • Familiarity with substations, grid interconnection, transmission studies, commissioning, and model validation requirements.
  • P.Eng. designation in Alberta, or eligibility for registration, is preferred.


Ideal Candidate


The ideal candidate is a practical gas power generation engineer who understands how to design and develop a gas-fired plant from early concept through permitting and execution. They are technically strong, commercially aware, and comfortable overseeing outside experts while protecting the owner’s interests. This person can define project requirements, select the appropriate technical path, coordinate gas and electrical interfaces, and help ensure the project is positioned for successful permitting, construction, and operation.