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Transmission Operations Engineer Jobs in Colorado

... transmission systems, layer2/3 routers, and data services. * Experience in network operations, systematic troubleshooting in IP and Optical environments with focus in DevOps. * Experience with Unix ...

Network Operations Engineer II - Client Onsite Work Location: Denver, CO Working Hours: * Schedule ... Advanced knowledge of troubleshooting transport/transmission networks and transceivers.

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Transmission Operations Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$57.3K

$118.2K

$167.2K

How much do transmission operations engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for transmission operations engineer in Colorado is $118,228.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $130,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transmission operations engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transmission Operations Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems, and grid operations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, EMS (Energy Management Systems), and NERC certifications are often required for effective system monitoring and compliance. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for managing grid stability and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure reliable power transmission, rapid response to system disturbances, and adherence to industry regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by transmission operations engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Transmission Operations Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining grid reliability during unexpected outages, integrating new energy sources, and adapting to evolving regulatory requirements. These issues require strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with control room staff and field crews, and staying updated with the latest grid management technologies. Proactively participating in ongoing training, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, and leveraging real-time data analytics can help address these challenges and ensure safe and efficient power transmission.

What is the difference between Transmission Operations Engineer vs Transmission Planning Engineer?

AspectTransmission Operations EngineerTransmission Planning Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certifications (e.g., PE)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, often with additional planning certifications
Work EnvironmentMonitoring real-time grid operations, responding to outagesDesigning future grid expansions, analyzing load forecasts
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, grid operators, energy companiesUtilities, consulting firms, energy sector
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding operational roles and responsibilitiesFocus on planning and development of transmission systems

Transmission Operations Engineers focus on real-time grid management and operational reliability, while Transmission Planning Engineers concentrate on designing and planning future transmission infrastructure. Both roles require electrical engineering credentials but serve different functions within the energy industry.

What is a transmission operations engineer?

Transmission Operations Engineers are professionals who manage and oversee the operation, monitoring, and control of electrical power transmission systems. They ensure the reliable and efficient delivery of electricity from power generation facilities to distribution networks and end users. Their responsibilities include coordinating system operations, responding to outages or emergencies, balancing electrical loads, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety standards. Transmission Operations Engineers play a critical role in maintaining grid stability and preventing power disruptions.
Infographic showing various Transmission Operations Engineer job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,228 per year, or $56.8 per hour.

Transmission Operations Planning Engineer (Entry, Staff, Senior, or Principal)

Xcel Energy

Denver, CO

$97K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.

This Transmission Operations Planning Engineer position can be hired at the Senior, or Principal levels and will differ as minimum skills and/or experience will be required for each level. The successful candidate will be placed at a level that is commensurate with the candidate's skills and experience. This is a position is on hybrid work schedule (3 days per week on-site).

Position Summary


Viewed as the technical engineer or subject matter expert for the organization in the application of advanced theories, concepts, principles, and processes for an assigned area of responsibility (i.e. subject matter, function, type of facility, equipment or product). Contributes to the development of new principles and concepts. Problems must be approached through a series of complex and conceptually related studies, are difficult to define, require unconventional or innovative approaches, and require sophisticated research techniques. Responsible for major project or several complex projects of moderate to large scope. Serves as organization spokesperson on advanced projects and/or programs. Acts as advisor to management and customers on advanced technical research studies and applications. Maintains contacts with individuals and units within and outside the corporation for action on technical matters. Works under consultative direction toward broad general goals and objectives. Assignments are often self-initiated. Determine and pursue courses of action necessary to obtain desired results. Work checked through consultation and agreement with others rather than by formal review of superior. May provide work direction for a team of engineers, technicians and other professionals as necessary to complete assignments. This includes evaluation of work progress and results/feedback to supervisors on performance. May lead multiple critical and/or complex projects.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Applies extensive technical expertise and has a higher-level understanding of the basic principles of other related disciplines. Fully demonstrates the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level by applying advanced technical principles, theories and concepts, and contributes to the development of new principles, concepts and technical standards. Fully demonstrates unique technical skills.

  • As a recognized internal technical SME, conceives plans and conducts research to develop procedures, codes and standards in problem areas of considerable scope and complexity and supports the development of technical documentation through a series of complex and conceptually related studies requiring unconventional or innovative approaches.

  • Exercises authority and technical leadership on assignments that are often self-initiated and self-directed. Assignments are strategic and have significant long-term implications to achievement of overall business objectives.

  • May lead multiple critical and/or complex projects including research, design, equipment specification & selection, installation, start-up, commissioning and evaluation of work progress and results.

  • Acts as advisor to management and customers on advanced technical research studies and applications. Manages bid/evaluation processes which include the preparation of bid documents, completion of technical evaluations for proposals and the review and approval of recommendations for selection.

  • Serves as organization spokesperson on advanced projects and/or programs. Is influential in all forms of communications with internal and external business.

  • May provide oversight of engineers, interns, craft personnel, technicians and other professionals. Forms mentoring relationships with less experienced engineers for the transfer of knowledge and continuous self-development of technical skills and competencies. Demonstrates effective leadership skills.

  • May provide overall coordination of processes related to budgeting, estimating, forecasting, accounting and work order management, in support of existing engineering projects or packaging proposals for future projects.

Senior Engineer Level (Salary Range: $97,000-$129,267)

Minimum Requirements

  • Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum, electrical engineering degree preferred.

  • 5+ years relevant engineering experience with EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) required; 7+ years relevant engineering experience without EIT/FE.

  • Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.

  • Preferred PE (Professional Engineer) registration may be required depending on business need.

Entry Engineer Level (Salary Range: $70,000-$88,667)

Minimum Requirements

  • Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum, electrical engineering degree preferred.

  • 0+ years relevant engineering experience Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.

  • Preferred EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) preferred.

Staff Engineer Level (Salary Range: $81,000 -106,267)

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited, electrical engineering degree preferred.

  • 2+year's relevant engineering experience. Demonstrated broad knowledge & proficiency in specialty area, knowledge of related specialties, & general knowledge of other related disciplines.

  • Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills & core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.

  • EIT/FE (Engineer in Training/Fundamentals of Engineering) strongly preferred.

Principal Engineer (Salary Range: $112,000-$156,600)

Minimum Requirements

  • Required bachelor's degree in engineering from ABET accredited curriculum, electrical engineering degree preferred.

  • 9+ years relevant engineering experience with PE (Professional Engineer) registration required; 15+ years relevant engineering experience without PE.

  • Ability to demonstrate the unique technical skills and core competencies for this engineering level established & documented by the organization.

Preferred Experience With:

  • Supporting a Transmission Control Center

  • Power Flow Steady State and Stability Studies

  • EMS Network Modeling and troubleshooting

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $70,000.00 to $156,600.00 per yearThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 08/06/26

EEO is the Law |EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)

All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


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About Xcel Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xcel Energy is a prominent electricity and natural gas service provider serving multiple states in the United States, including Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Our commitment revolves around delivering essential services to our valued customers. As a trailblazer in the industry, we were the first major US electricity provider with a visionary goal to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and an ambitious 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels. Through innovative electric vehicle initiatives, we actively contribute to carbon reduction not only in our electricity generation but also in the transportation sector within the states we operate. Simultaneously, we remain devoted to ensuring cost-effectiveness for our customers by implementing advanced electricity rates and energy efficiency programs.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1909