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Trainee Nerc System Operator Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

NERC O&P Compliance Lead

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$155K/yr

Exempt The NERC O&P Compliance Lead supports the RWE Americas (RWEA) NERC Internal Compliance ... System Operator (ISO) and Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) requirements for power ...

NERC O&P Compliance Lead

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$120 - $165/hr

Exempt The NERC O&P Compliance Lead supports the RWE Americas (RWEA) NERC Internal Compliance ... System Operator (ISO) and Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) requirements for power ...

NERC O&P Compliance Lead

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Exempt The NERC O&P Compliance Lead supports the RWE Americas (RWEA) NERC Internal Compliance ... System Operator (ISO) and Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) requirements for power ...

NERC O&P Compliance Lead

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$155K/yr

Exempt The NERC O&P Compliance Lead supports the RWE Americas (RWEA) NERC Internal Compliance ... System Operator (ISO) and Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) requirements for power ...

Exempt The Sr. NERC O&P Compliance Associate supports the RWE Americas (RWEA) NERC Internal ... System Operator (ISO) and Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) requirements for power ...

Exempt The Sr. NERC O&P Compliance Associate supports the RWE Americas (RWEA) NERC Internal ... System Operator (ISO) and Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) requirements for power ...

Must be able to obtain NERC Reliability Coordinator System Operator Certification within first 6 months of employment * Willingness to work a rotating 12-hour shift, including nights, weekends, and ...

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Trainee Nerc System Operator information

See Austin, TX salary details

$14

$27

$44

How much do trainee nerc system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee nerc system operator in Austin, TX is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Trainee NERC System Operator?

A Trainee NERC System Operator is an entry-level professional being trained to oversee the reliable operation of the electric power grid in accordance with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards. Their main responsibilities include learning to monitor grid conditions, respond to system disturbances, and ensure the safe, reliable delivery of electricity. Trainees work under supervision, gradually gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to become certified system operators. They must eventually pass the NERC certification exam to independently perform system operator duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee NERC System Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee NERC System Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, basic engineering principles, and typically a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with energy management systems (EMS), SCADA platforms, and pursuing or holding NERC certification are crucial for operating within regulatory requirements. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for monitoring grid stability and coordinating with teams. These competencies ensure safe, reliable operation of the power grid and compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee NERC System Operators during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Trainee NERC System Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced decision-making environment, mastering complex grid management software, and maintaining focus during long shifts. To overcome these, trainees should actively seek mentorship from experienced operators, engage in hands-on simulation training, and prioritize continual learning of operating procedures and emergency protocols. Developing strong communication skills is also crucial, as the role requires frequent coordination with other team members and external stakeholders to ensure grid reliability.

What is the difference between Trainee Nerc System Operator vs Nerc System Operator?

AspectTrainee Nerc System OperatorNerc System Operator
CertificationsTypically in training, may have basic certificationsRequires NERC certification and relevant licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksOperational control room, independent decision-making
ResponsibilitiesLearning system operations, assisting senior operatorsMonitoring and controlling power grid operations

The Trainee Nerc System Operator is an entry-level role focused on learning and assisting, while the Nerc System Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for real-time grid management. The trainee role involves supervision and training, whereas the experienced operator handles critical operational decisions independently.

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in Austin, TX?

For Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Trainee Nerc System Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Nerc System Operator job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,213 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Transmission System Operator, Senior

Leander, TX โ€ข On-site

Pedernales Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Utilitiesย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$71.01/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 5 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

PHYSICAL OFFICE LOCATION: PEC Transmission Control Center, Leander, TX 78641
$56.81 Minimum Starting Base Pay* + KPI Bonuses + Competitive Benefits
Midpoint of pay range: $71.01
*Qualifications may warrant greater starting base pay within the full pay range. Individual base pay is determined by experience, job-related skills, and relevant education or training.
Position Summary
This position is responsible for maintaining the safety of personnel, ensuring the reliability of the electric grid, driving continuous improvement, and assisting with the creation of automated solutions to solve operational challenges for the transmission system.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Coordinate the operations of the Transmission System Operators while monitoring the transmission system to ensure recommended operating limits are not exceeded
  • Write, validate and communicate switching orders for transmission and substation facilities consistent with the Transmission Services Safety and Health Handbook, PEC Transmission Switching Procedures Manual, and System Operations Procedures to ensure safety of field personnel while making transmission and substation facilities available for maintenance and construction activities
  • Operate the transmission system to ensure compliance with ERCOT Operating Guides and Protocols, NERC Standards and PEC Transmission Switching Procedures. Maintains close communication with ERCOT, keeping them informed of any changes in the PEC transmission system
  • Review all procedures to ensure compliance with PEC's Transmission Services Health and Safety Handbook and the Transmission Switching Procedures
  • Direct and assist in System Emergencies (Black Start, System Outages, etc.) to reduce customer outage time and restore system integrity
  • Review planned daily switching to meet security guidelines and possible effects on Special Protection Schemes and assists with unplanned outages to ensure system reliability
  • Initiate notifications pertaining to the PEC transmission system equipment outages or pending situations that could result in customer outage, line overloading, equipment overloading or transfer limitations
  • Review all written logs pertaining to daily events to ensure proper logging and readability
  • Assist in planning and implementation of training programs
  • Maintain System Operations Daily Report, System Faults notifications, ERCOT Advisory, Watch, and Emergency notifications, and any other notifications concerning PEC's transmission system or ERCOT related information
  • Support the goals and directives of the PEC Transmission Operations Engineering Manager and Transmission Engineering Manager
  • Attend annual ERCOT Black Start Regional training, annual ERCOT Training Seminar, and any other training and seminars as mandated by management, NERC, and ERCOT
  • Shed firm load during ERCOT Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) event, or any events where shedding firm load is necessary to maintain the integrity of the transmission grid and/or for the safety of personnel and equipment
  • Restore load following force majeure and mandated load shedding events
  • Approve all Transmission Orders prior to implementation by the Transmission System Operators
  • Perform transmission outage coordination duties during off-normal business hours and during the absence of the Transmission Outage Coordinator
  • Maintain the security of confidential information
  • Stay abreast of advances in technology
  • Demonstrate regular and prompt attendance
  • Performs other related duties as necessary or assigned

Supervisory and/or Leadership Responsibilities
Provide leadership, coaching, and/or mentoring to less experienced staff. May act as a first-level supervisor when manager is out of the office.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Knowledge of EMS/ Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) applications or prior work experience in a mission critical or controls environment
  • Knowledge of using computer systems, which may include setting up and using hardware and software programs, entering data, configuration, or processing information
  • Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer service
  • Knowledge of technical presentations and reporting
  • Knowledge of construction materials and products
  • Experience working on EMS based infrastructure and comfortable building and executing training scenarios
  • Skilled in time management
  • Skilled in prioritizing and managing changing priorities
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
  • Ability to listen and understand information verbally and in writing
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Ability to anticipate, identify, analyze and resolve conflict and problems
  • Ability to listen and understand information verbally and in writing
  • Ability to anticipate, identify, analyze and resolve conflict and problems

Minimum Qualifications - (Education, Experience)
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 7 years of directly related experience
  • NERC System Operator certification
  • Valid Texas Driver's License
  • ERCOT System Operator Certification preferred

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The employee may be required to stand; reach with hands and arms, stoop and kneel
  • The employee may be required to sit or stand for long periods of time
  • The employee may be required to lift, carry, push, pull or move up to 25 pounds
  • The employee may be required to travel
  • Exempt employees receive a fixed bi-weekly salary to compensate them for all hours worked during each pay period
  • This position may be required to work more than 40 hours per week

This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of essential duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties that may be assigned based on the needs of the Cooperative.
Position Open Until Filled
Pedernales Electric Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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