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Power Grid Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sr. BESS Operations Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Operating at the intersection of software, controls, hardware, and operations, this role ensures ... Monitor and maintain technical performance across a portfolio of grid-connected BESS sites ...

Sr. BESS Operations Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Operating at the intersection of software, controls, hardware, and operations, this role ensures ... Monitor and maintain technical performance across a portfolio of grid-connected BESS sites ...

... from Grid Operations, local Operations (Transmission, Substation, and Distribution), Labor ... Preventing power surges; ensuring that the right amount of energy is distributed; operating power ...

Sales Associate

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... powered when the electricity grid goes down. Think of us as the people customers call when they ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

Senior Service Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We partner with fleet operators, charge point operators, and enterprise clients to design, deploy ... high-power applications, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) solutions. This range allows us to support ...

Participate in incorporating future-ready techniques, concept development, operating strategies ... power distribution. * Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, accurate reports ...

Senior Service Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We partner with fleet operators, charge point operators, and enterprise clients to design, deploy ... high-power applications, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) solutions. This range allows us to support ...

Participate in incorporating future-ready techniques, concept development, operating strategies ... power distribution. * Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, accurate reports ...

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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 Riverside, CA? For Power Grid Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Grid Operator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Power Grid Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Power Grid Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Power Grid Operator job openings:
Sr. BESS Operations Engineer

Sr. BESS Operations Engineer

Qcells

Irvine, CA • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Qcells rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

POSITION DESCRIPTION: 
We are seeking a Senior BESS Operations Engineer to lead the end-to-end performance, reliability, and optimization of a distributed fleet of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Operating at the intersection of software, controls, hardware, and operations, this role ensures that fleet assets perform safely, efficiently, and in alignment with program requirements and revenue objectives.
The successful candidate will serve as a key technical bridge between Asset Management, Engineering, Product, and external partners - owning complex technical issues, driving root-cause resolution, and scaling operational processes through automation and modern tooling. This is a hands-on role for an engineer who is energized by solving real problems at fleet scale and shaping how BESS operations evolve over the next decade. The candidate will be based out of our Teaneck, New Jersey.  
RESPONSIBILITIES
Fleet Operations & Performance 
  • Perform daily fleet health checks, tariff updates, and dispatch optimization validation.
  • Diagnose and resolve performance gaps, including issues related to forecasting, tariff configuration, and control logic.
  • Lead capacity testing, Measurement & Verification (M&V), and program compliance reporting (e.g., SGIP, SMART).
  • Conduct root-cause analysis for hardware and software issues across the BESS stack, including PCS, BMS, DC-DC converters, transformers, and controls.
  • Troubleshoot communications and telemetry issues across Modbus, DNP3, edge gateways, and cloud ingestion pipelines.
  • Validate system behavior post-maintenance and during commissioning burn-in periods.
  • Coordinate with OEMs and vendors to escalate, track, and resolve high-impact issues with clear accountability and timely remediation.
  • Monitor and maintain technical performance across a portfolio of grid-connected BESS sites participating in programs such as VDER, SGIP, SMART, CT ESS, and DSGS.
EMS, Controls & Optimization 
  • Analyze and improve dispatch strategies, tariff logic, and forecasting performance across the fleet.
  • Support rollout of new EMS features, firmware updates, and platform releases, including regression validation and post-deployment monitoring.
  • Partner with controls and software engineering teams to refine the site-level control hierarchy for reliability and performance at scale.
Cross-Functional Collaboration 
  • Collaborate closely with Product, Software Engineering, and Field Service teams to ensure operational requirements are reflected in product roadmaps.
  • Provide clear technical insights and performance narratives to internal stakeholders, customers, and external partners.
  • Train and enable internal teams to expand self-service troubleshooting and operational capabilities.
Process Improvement & Scalability 
  • Identify and implement process improvements that reduce manual operations and increase fleet reliability.
  • Develop and maintain operational documentation, including commissioning guides, troubleshooting playbooks, and Confluence-based knowledge bases.
  • Drive initiatives to enhance alerting, monitoring, and operational visibility as the fleet scales.
  • Perform other duties as assigned  
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Renewable Energy, or a related technical discipline.
  • 5+ years of relevant experience in BESS, renewable energy, or grid operations.
  • Strong technical foundation in the energy industry, particularly across solar, microgrid, and energy storage sectors.
  • Working knowledge of power systems and electrical engineering principles, with the ability to interpret single-line diagrams and coordinate technical reviews with engineering teams.
  • Hands-on familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, CANbus, DNP3, TCP/IP).
  • Foundational IT and networking skills, including Linux CLI and SSH.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply AI tools and modern automation frameworks (e.g., LLMs, ML-based anomaly detection, agentic workflows) to design and deploy scalable, production-grade solutions that reduce manual effort and enhance fleet-level visibility.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical issues for diverse audiences.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively across functional teams in a fast-paced environment, building strong working relationships across stakeholders.
  • Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible) and Linux package managers
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Working understanding of electrical grid and smart-grid concepts, utility rate structures, and wholesale energy markets.
  • Hands-on experience with SCADA systems, control platforms, instrumentation, and systems integration.
  • Experience with EMS platforms and major BESS OEM ecosystems (PCS, DC-DC converter, and battery vendors).
  • Proficiency in Python for data analytics, automation, and operational tooling.
  • Project management and customer-facing coordination experience.
  • Background in cleantech, IoT, smart grid, or distributed energy resources.
  • Awareness of software and network security best practices.
 
Hanwha Q CELLS America Inc. (“HQCA”) is a Qcells company, one of the world’s largest manufacturers and providers of solar photovoltaic (PV) products and solutions.  Headquartered in Irvine, California, HQCA has been rapidly expanding its business in North America through the expansion of products and solutions, including distributed energy solutions, direct-to-homeowner solar sales and financing, and EPC services.  We provide an opportunity to be part of an exciting and growing world-class global business in an interesting and expanding industry of the future.  
 
PHYSICAL, MENTAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS: 
To comply with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 the essential physical, mental and environmental requirements for this job are listed below. These are requirements normally expected to perform regular job duties. Incumbent must be able to successfully perform all of the functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.  
Mobility 
Standing 
20% of time  
Sitting 
70% of time  
Walking 
10% of time  
Strength 
Pulling 
up to 10 Pounds  
Pushing 
up to 10 Pounds  
Carrying 
up to 10 Pounds  
Lifting 
up to 10 Pounds  
Dexterity (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 
Typing 
Handling 
Reaching 
Agility (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 
Turning 
Twisting 
Bending 
Crouching 
Balancing 
Climbing 
Crawling 
Kneeling 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The salary range is required by the California Pay Transparency Act and may differ depending on the location of those candidates hired nationwide. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to, skill set, education, licenses and certifications, essential job duties and requirements, and the necessary experience relative to the job’s minimum qualifications.

*This target salary range is for CA positions only and should not be interpreted as an offer of compensation.

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