Associate System Operator

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About the role

This position is the first level of the System Operator classification hierarchy. The Associate System Operator is a trainee position responsible for developing advanced knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to obtain the credentials, professional competencies, and intellectual capability required by the Duke Energy System Operator Qualification Program (SOQP). Employees will obtain and maintain NERC System Operator certification and complete all required job task verifications. The Associate System Operator monitors bulk electric system parameters such as system load, frequency, voltage, line flows, transformer flows, and voltages via the Energy Management System and other systems to ensure the electric system meets demand while operating within defined parameters.

The Associate System Operator will not independently operate on the Bulk Electric System (BES) until obtaining the required credentials (NERC Certification and functional job task verification). Prior to certification, they will be partnered with a System Operator I or higher while working at a functional console and will not make independent operational decisions affecting the BES. The training program requires flexible scheduling, including the ability to work 24/7 shift rotation, shift change debriefing, and regular 40-hour work weeks. Upon completion of the training program, the incumbent will progress through the System Operator hierarchy to positions of increasing responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Obtain job task verification by continually improving job-related, technical, and professional advanced knowledge, skills, and performance utilizing discretion and judgment.
• Prepare for and successfully pass the NERC system operator certification examination and obtain required functional job task verification with limited direct supervision.
• Successfully complete all training requirements, including those mandated by Electric Reliability Organization (ERO) Standards and any regional/local operator certification, such as PJM.

Requirements

• Technical degree or high school diploma/GED with a minimum of 2 years of related experience.
• Ability to work in a 24/7 rotating shift schedule or typical office hours.
• Onsite mobility classification—work will be performed at a designated company facility.
• Must be able to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment-based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.
• 5–15% travel required.

Preferred Qualifications

• 4-year degree in engineering or a related technical subject.
• Advanced knowledge of basic system operations and equipment.
• NERC System Operator Certification.
• Regional or local system operator certification/job task verification.

Relocation assistance provided where applicable. This is not a represented/union position.