Grid Transformation Lead

About the role

This role develops a forward-looking vision for how ERCOT can anticipate and address the challenges of a transforming Texas electric grid. The individual will build analytical frameworks that strengthen grid readiness and continuously evolve as new techniques emerge.

Responsibilities

• Recognized as a subject matter expert, possessing specialized advanced technical skills and competencies.
• Frequently contributes to the development of new theories and methods using knowledge gained through wide-reaching experiences.
• Employs highly-developed problem resolution skills and expertise as a generalist or specialist using professional concepts and ERCOT objectives to resolve complex issues in creative and effective ways.
• Exerts significant latitude in determining objectives of assignment. Exercises judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.
• Often advises and leads the work of junior employees. Could frequently perform in a program/project leadership role requiring the ability to develop and lead matrixed teams.
• Interacts with management and senior customers on matters requiring coordination across organizational lines.
• Applies simulation results to support planning studies, operational analyses, and grid transformation initiatives, including those addressing increasing penetration of inverter-based resources (IBR) and large loads.
• Develops and documents simulation workflows, case management practices, and automation pipelines to improve reproducibility and efficiency of large-scale studies.
• Bridges genuine intellectual curiosity and a drive to learn, actively engages with academic literature, industry research, open-source tooling, and collaborative forums to incorporate new ideas into ERCOT's analytical toolkit.
• Explores solution formats including white papers, research papers, proof-of-concept studies, pilot programs, and prototypes.
• Tracks trends and issues related to generation, transmission, and distribution technologies and assesses their potential impact on ERCOT.
• Proposes new or revised ERCOT protocols, guides, or procedures to accommodate emerging solutions and market participation.
• Provides strategic and technical expertise to internal and external stakeholders, raising awareness of relevant research and innovation activities.
• Builds and maintains formal and informal networks with energy research organizations, academic institutions, and industry consortiums including ISO/RTO councils, PSERC, EPRI, CEATI, and universities to share information, coordinate action, and foster cooperation.
• Identifies partnership and collaboration opportunities, establishing clear governance structures to ensure progress and timely communication.

Requirements

• Minimum 8 years job related work experience in excess of degree requirements
• Minimum 8 years of experience in electric power grid operations and/or planning at a utility or an ISO or a vendor.
• Minimum 8 years of hand-on experience working with mathematical optimization, simulation engines, and open-source development.
• Demonstrated record of success in working across cross-functional matrixed teams, and successfully delivering solutions required.
• Some travel is required both within the US and internationally.
• Deep expertise in at least two simulation domains: steady-state power flows, AC/DC Security-Constrained Optimal Power Flow (SCOPF), Production Cost Modeling (PCM), or Capacity Expansion modeling.
• Strong understanding of the mathematical engines and numerical solvers underlying these tools, with the ability to interpret, validate, and communicate results with confidence.
• Ability to formulate, implement, and debug optimization models for applications such as OPF, unit commitment, dispatch, and resource adequacy.
• Leverages optimization tools to support ERCOT's analytical needs and contributes to novel solution approaches for emerging grid challenges.
• Proficiency in Python or C/C++, with working experience in version control tools such as GitHub and AI development toolkits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree: Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Operational research or related field (Required)
• Master's or PhD Degree: Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Operational research or related field (Preferred) or a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge to a major in such fields is required

Skills

• Simulation and Optimization
• Mathematical Engines and Numerical Solvers
• Python or C/C++ Programming
• Version Control Tools
• Collaboration and Networking
• Grid Technologies and Trends
• Research and Innovation Awareness

Benefits

ERCOT offers competitive compensation and benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Pay

$160,000 - $220,000

Schedule

Full-time, with some travel required.