Dispatcher Power AGC 1, 2, Senior

Summary

The Senior Power Dispatcher – AGC serves as a certified Balancing Authority Area Operator with full operational authority over SRP’s Balancing Area. This role is critical to ensuring the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of SRP’s generation and load balancing functions, in strict adherence to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Reliability Standards and SRP’s internal operating procedures. In addition to core dispatch responsibilities, this position plays a strategic role in supporting SRP’s participation in organized energy markets, requiring advanced knowledge of market operations, regulatory frameworks, and real-time energy trading.

What You'll Do

• Maintain full authority to ensure safe and reliable Balancing Authority operations in compliance with NERC Reliability Standards. 

• Direct real-time operations of the Balancing Authority Area in accordance with SRP procedures and reliability requirements.

• Execute all market-related tasks associated with SRP’s Balancing Authority Area, including energy scheduling and dispatch.

• Develop and adjust daily generation unit commitment plans; coordinate with plant personnel to implement operational directives.

• Represent SRP in real-time operational coordination with other NERC Functional Entities.

• Coordinate real-time maintenance outages for generation assets.

• Ensure accuracy of real-time data, load forecasts, and operational logs.

• Mentor and support the development of new Power Dispatchers – AGC, ensuring readiness and compliance.

• Lead outage coordination and contribute to the development and approval of Operating Practices.

• Serve as a subject matter expert in dispatcher training, developing and delivering technical training modules.

• Manage special projects and initiatives as assigned. 

What It Takes To Succeed

Education

High school diploma or GED plus completion of an approved apprenticeship or formal training in: 

• Power Plant Operations
• Real-Time Energy Trading
• Transmission Scheduling
• Power System Operation
• Reliability Coordination

OR a bachelor’s degree in a related technical or business discipline from an accredited institution. 

Certifications or Testing Required

Must pass the EEI System Operator/Power Dispatcher (SOPD II) aptitude test during the pre-employment process.
Must obtain and maintain NERC Certification within six months of hire. Note: Failure to maintain certification may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination. 

Must demonstrate:

• Deep understanding of power system operations, generation assets, and control systems. 
• Proficiency in specialized dispatch software and Microsoft Office applications. 
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills in high-pressure environments. 
• Ability to multitask and remain methodical despite frequent interruptions. 
• Familiarity with NERC Reliability Standards and FERC Standards of Conduct. 
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities. 

Experience

Relevant experience may include roles such as:

•  Lineman, Electrician, Relay Technician
•  Control C&M Technician
•  Transmission Scheduler
•  Real-Time Power Trader
•  Power System Operator or Reliability Coordinator
•  Generation Control Room Operator  

Job Family

This position is the top level of the progression that starts with Power Dispatcher I to Power Dispatcher II and then Senior Power Dispatcher. There are specific performance and time in grade requirements for each progression.