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Trainee Nerc System Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Technical Trainer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$107K - $122K/yr

In this role, you'll work closely with our creative team and subject matter experts to develop courses that support system operators in maintaining NERC credentials and meeting PER-005 training ...

Create NERC E-tags, purchase transmission via OASIS and capture transactions accurately in Avangrid ... Interact with plant personnel, traders, and system operators. * Adhere to effective internal ...

Create NERC E-tags, purchase transmission via OASIS and capture transactions accurately in Avangrid ... Interact with plant personnel, traders, and system operators. * Adhere to effective internal ...

New

Create NERC E-tags, purchase transmission via OASIS and capture transactions accurately in Avangrid ... Interact with plant personnel, traders, and system operators. * Adhere to effective internal ...

Create NERC E-tags, purchase transmission via OASIS and capture transactions accurately in Avangrid ... Interact with plant personnel, traders, and system operators. * Adhere to effective internal ...

New

... system refreshes. * Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOP). Compliance & Risk: * Ensure solutions align with critical infrastructure security standards and regulations (e.g., NERC ...

... system refreshes. * Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOP). Compliance & Risk: * Ensure solutions align with critical infrastructure security standards and regulations (e.g., NERC ...

... system refreshes. * Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOP). Compliance & Risk: * Ensure solutions align with critical infrastructure security standards and regulations (e.g., NERC ...

... system refreshes. * Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOP). Compliance & Risk: * Ensure solutions align with critical infrastructure security standards and regulations (e.g., NERC ...

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Showing results 1-20

Trainee Nerc System Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$15

$29

$47

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

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee nerc system operator in Portland, OR is $29.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $29.81 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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Nerc System Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in Portland, OR? For Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Nerc System Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

Technical Trainer

HR Annie Consulting

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

$107K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Join a team creating best-in-class Power System Operations training, and support reliability across the West!

Western Power Pool is hiring a Technical Trainer to join our team!

Key Details:

  • Pay: $107,700 - $122,350/year DOE
  • Location: Remote in select states - must reside within the following areas: AZ, OR, WA, UT, NV, CA, WY, MT, ID, NM, CO, El Paso TX
  • Travel: Up to 8x per year to Portland, OR HQ
  • Schedule: Full-time, Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm PPT
  • Benefits: Employer-paid health, dental, vision, and life insurance; PTO; 11 paid holidays; company-funded Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA); 401k with 6% match; discretionary profit-sharing contribution, budgeted at 7% of salary; and flexible working schedule

Who You Are: You’re a strong communicator who can turn complex material into clear, engaging learning content. You may come from the power, utilities, or operations within the utility sector, with the ability and interest to train others. You’re knowledgeable about operations in the electric utility sector and you enjoy working with subject matter experts, learning new systems and terminology, and building content that helps operators do critical work with confidence. Plus, you’re excited to grow further in the energy space!

Minimum qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEM or related field preferred OR 1–2 years of equivalent experience in electric utility operations or a technical role requiring clear communication of complex information.
  • Ability to translate technical concepts into clear, practical instruction and collaborate with SMEs to validate content
  • Strong communication, and organizational skills
  • Comfort with or openness for on-camera delivery and public speaking for training purposes
  • Ability to work effectively in a virtual team environment, manage multiple projects, and learn quickly
  • Working knowledge of bulk electric system concepts
  • Willingness and ability to obtain NERC Certification

Preferred qualifications

  • 3 – 5 years’ experience in System Operations
  • Current NERC Certification
  • Ability to translate complex power system topics into clear, practical instruction
  • Exposure to WECC / NERC environments or related committee participation, such as WECC, NERC, or NATF
  • Technical writing, scripting, or instructional content development experience

Position Overview: We’re looking for a Technical Trainer to help create some of the best online Power System Operations training in the industry. In this role, you’ll work closely with our creative team and subject matter experts to develop courses that support system operators in maintaining NERC credentials and meeting PER-005 training requirements. If you’re someone who can translate complex technical concepts into clear, engaging learning, whether from a training, writing, or utility background, you’ll thrive here.

A typical day will consist of:

  • Working with Creative team to develop video productions and technical training courses
  • Developing technical scripts and interview questions for SMEs in related operations subjects
  • Implementing courses on our online platform including challenge and test questions, lesson plans and ILAs
  • Refining materials based on feedback, evolving operational practices, and changing industry standards
  • Monitoring NERC and WECC-related changes
  • Pitching in on light video-editing or production-related tasks as needed, with training provided
  • Working with Members of WPP in helping identify training needs

Who We Are: Western Power Pool (WPP) is a non-profit organization that helps keep the lights on by ensuring power utilities in the West achieve maximum benefits from coordinated operations. Our work is customer-driven, relationship-based, and collaborative.

We’ve been serving the energy sector for over 80 years and are at the forefront of ensuring the reliability and security of the power grid while spearheading the integration of renewable energy sources. As a leader in the energy sector, we manage power generation and transmission across multiple states, facilitate competitive energy markets, and foster innovation to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

To learn more, check out our website: https://www.westernpowerpool.org/

Western Power Pool is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive atmosphere for all employees.

Check us out on social media:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/western-power-pool/

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