Control Center Operator - Pattern Energy Group LP

Company Overview

Pattern Energy Group is an independent, fully integrated energy company that develops, constructs, owns and operates renewable energy projects and transmission assets across North America, Japan, and parts of Latin America. The company focuses primarily on wind, solar and transmission. The Pattern Energy Group team has a history as one of the top North American renewable energy and transmission providers in the industry. The team is dedicated to delivering the highest value for its customers, partners, financial supporters and the communities in which it works, while exhibiting a strong commitment to promoting environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility.

Pattern Energy Group operates in the United States, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands, and Mexico with offices in San Francisco, Houston, San Diego, New York, Tokyo, Amsterdam, and Toronto. Pattern Energy Group’s corporate headquarters is in San Francisco.

Job Purpose

The Control Center Operator is responsible for directing, monitoring and coordinating the operation of Pattern Energy Group’s (PEG) wind assets from the 24/7 Operations Control Center. The Control Center Operator ensures that the operations of Wind Power Plants (WPP) comply with all applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards and practices. The Control Center Operator works independently with guidance only in complex situations. 

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor real-time control center operations and the performance of Pattern’s fleet of wind projects while applying established procedures in order to guarantee safety of company assets and personnel while maximizing availability and generation.
• Ensure compliance to all regulatory and contractual requirements through adherence to all operational procedures, processes, and policies.
• Report and document the status of forced and planned plant outages to Regional Transmission Organization / Independent System Operators (RTO/ISO).
• Evaluate system alarms and irregularities, taking corrective action as outlined in established guidelines.
• Ensure quality and accuracy of PEG real-time generation information being telemetered to RTO/ISO.
• Monitor and troubleshoot wind turbine generator faults; resetting faults that are able to be reset in accordance with company procedures and/or technician guidance.
• Dispatch field and emergency service personnel when appropriate.
• Remotely direct electrical substation switching at PEG facilities using a detailed understanding of the Company’s electrical switching practices.
• Ensure turbine and substation data integrity for internal databases used for reporting purposes.
• Use Third Party and OEM SCADA systems, substation HMI screens, and other tools to monitor and control real and reactive power as well as other operating ranges of Wind Plants.
• Maintain understanding of the energy markets where Company assets are located and understand commercial practices as they relate to managing merchant power pricing and scheduling.
• Assist Field Service Technicians with troubleshooting on a daily basis.
• Assist Projects (New Unit) Technicians with troubleshooting during commissioning and operation of wind turbines.
• Take a proactive approach to fault finding and troubleshooting.
• Identify common, reoccurring, and major component faults.
• Monitor, trend, and analyse wind turbine / wind farm performance.
• Record operating actions taken during shifts in the operator's logbook or other automated logging mechanisms.
• Utilize accurate and efficient three-part communication skills on inbound and outbound telephone conversations.
• Maximize the use of troubleshooting applications, analyse the data, and work in close cooperation with the Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Software / SCADA teams to resolve and escalate support issues as necessary.
• Complete applicable safety and regulatory/compliance training requirements.
• Identify process improvements; includes reduction of non-value added operations, increased productivity opportunities, increased safety opportunities, etc. 
• Additional duties as required. 

Experience/Qualifications/Education Required

Educational Requirements

• Associate’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or an equivalent combination of training and experience

Required Experience

• 3+ years in power system operations, power production, or related energy operations

Required Licensure or Certification

• PJM Certifications required or ability to obtain within 6 months
• NERC Certification preferred

Required Knowledge

• Knowledge of AC theory and power flow
• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office software

Other Requirements

• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred but not required
• Ability to use multiple OEM SCADA applications
• Ability to understand and put into practice energy market selling processes
• Ability to influence individuals and groups
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Strong background in electrical AC theory and power flow
• High attention to detail
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to be self-motivated
• Ability to perform job tasks in a collaborative working environment
• Availability and willingness to work a rotating schedule as assigned, with shifts comprising a 24-hour, seven days per week operations.

The expected starting pay range for this role is $80,000 - $108,000 USD. This range is an estimate and base pay may be above or below the ranges based on several factors including but not limited to location, work experience, certifications, and education. In addition to base pay, Pattern’s compensation program includes a bonus structure for full-time employees of all levels. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, voluntary benefits, family care benefits, employee assistance program, paid time off and bonding leave, paid holidays, 401(k)/RRSP retirement savings plan with employer contribution, and employee referral bonuses.

Pattern Energy Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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