Description
Summary
Responsible for the regulatory oversight of physical grid infrastructure, transmission system operations, and generation reliability metrics. This role focuses heavily on the non-cyber NERC Reliability Standards. The Compliance Assurance Specialist - O&P is responsible for breaking down departmental silos across Operations, Engineering, Transmission, Distribution, and Production through the implementation of standardized data structures and ongoing training of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). By maintaining a proactive cycle of internal "spot-checks" and evidence validation for reliability standards, this position ensures the utility remains in a state of continuous audit-readiness while protecting against the loss of institutional knowledge during transitions of key compliance team members.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Ensure Transmission and Generation systems comply with NERC O&P standards (e.g., COM, FAC, MOD, PRC, TOP, VAR) and related ERCOT and PUCT requirements.
- Interview Operations and Engineering SMEs to translate undocumented "institutional knowledge" regarding grid reliability and maintenance into formal, audit-ready Visio process flows.
- Ability to utilize relational databases (such as SQL) to track utility asset maintenance logs, relay test records, and equipment lifecycles.
- Perform regular internal "spot-checks" of O&P evidence—such as relay testing records, vegetation management logs, and voltage stability reports—to ensure processes are followed consistently.
- Develop and deliver training programs for current and incoming technical staff on O&P GRC workflows and "documented" reliability standards.
- Lead the cleanup and migration of legacy O&P Excel data and maintenance logs into structured database environments without loss of metadata or historical context.
- Lead the preparation and "packaging" of technical evidence for NERC/ERCOT audits and self-certifications, serving as the primary point of contact for reliability evidence defense.
- Identify reliability risks within current transmission and generation workflows and author the documented procedures necessary to mitigate those risks.
- Monitor emerging NERC O&P, ERCOT and PUCT regulatory changes; assess the impact on current utility operations and update Visio workflows accordingly.
- Prepare formal reports and presentations for upper management regarding reliability compliance status, grid risks, and process architecture. May attend various events and functions.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, Utility Operations, or a related technical/operational discipline.
- 3+ years in Power Systems, Utility Operations, or Regulatory Compliance.
Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
Preferred Qualifications
Education/ Experience
- Broad-Based Utility Experience: 2–5 years of experience in utility operations, including Power Systems Engineering, Grid Operations, Transmission/Generation maintenance, or SCADA systems.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Foundational knowledge of Transmission, Distribution, and Generation operations
- General knowledge of the principles and practices of business organizations
- Basic knowledge of NERC O&P standards and ERCOT protocols
- Expert-level skill in Microsoft Visio to map complex engineering workflows.
- Strong proficiency in SQL (Relational integrity) and Advanced Excel to manage high volumes of reliability evidence.
- Ability to take on challenges and learn at a quick pace
Licenses and Certifications
Hold one or more of the following certifications:
- CISA – Certified Information Systems Auditor
- PMP – Project Management Professional
- NERC System Operator certification (not required, but highly preferred for technical context)
Or any other industry security certification.
Physical Requirements / Work Environment
The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The incumbent works in a typical office environment; relatively free from any environmental hazards or conditions. May be exposed to some unpleasant environmental conditions.
