Assoc Merchant Operations Controller

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. We are committed to delivering reliable, clean, and affordable energy to our customers 24/7.

This position is onsite at Parnall located in Jackson, MI. The selected candidate must be within a commutable distance or willing to relocate (relocation package is available for those that qualify). This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship, including H-1B, TN, CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT.

About the role

The Associate Merchant Operations Controller directs Consumers Energy resources to fulfill the company's operational and regulatory obligations while maximizing the value and performance of generation assets. Working a 24/7 rotating shift schedule, this position is responsible for real-time adjustments to generation resource plans and ensuring compliance with all applicable NERC and regulatory requirements. The role supports the evaluation of operational decisions related to scheduled outages and generation unit performance, both of which have significant financial impacts on energy and capacity markets. This position serves as the Balancing Authority for Consumers Energy Electric Supply and is authorized to take all necessary actions to ensure the reliable and economic operation of the Bulk Electric System, including implementing firm load shedding when required. NERC certification is required for this role.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, react to, and adjust energy sourcing plans based on changing system conditions and market dynamics.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable NERC standards and regulatory requirements.
• Make complex operational and financial decisions during assigned shifts with moderate guidance.
• Manage real-time requests, alarms, and operational issues related to intermittent generation resources.
• Support the Company's response to emergency situations and associated NERC standards, including EOP-004, EOP-008, and EOP-011.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• In-depth knowledge of real-time operational systems, including SCADA, OSI, PCI, OATI, and CROW.
• Strong understanding of utility and MISO market practices, processes, and procedures.
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, providing and receiving moderately complex to complex information.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate and resolve complex operational challenges.
• NERC Certification is required and must be obtained within one (1) year of hire.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical or business-related field
• OR Associate's degree in a technical or business-related field and two (2) or more years of experience working at or interacting with generating facilities, including:
  • Ability to analyze and evaluate economic situations
  • Experience interfacing with the MISO market
  • Experience working in a control room or dispatch center environment
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and database management
• OR High school diploma or GED and four (4) or more years of experience working at or interacting with generating facilities, including:
  • Ability to analyze and evaluate economic situations
  • Experience interfacing with the MISO market
  • Experience working in a control room or dispatch center environment
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and database management

Benefits

• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• 401k with company match
• Paid parental leave
• Up to 13 paid Holidays
• Paid time off
• Educational Assistance Program

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We value Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion as part of our company culture. We treat our employees with respect, fairness, and value diverse opinions. Our Employee Resource Groups include Women in Energy (WE), Minority Advisory Panel (MAP), Pride Alliance of Consumers Energy (PACE), GENERGY (Different Generations), capable (Different Abilities), Interfaith, People Planet Partners, and Veterans Advisory Panel (VAP). These groups foster an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to share their backgrounds, experiences, and ideas.