Transmission Grid Operations Director

Company Description:

Hunt Utility Services is a privately held company providing management and support services for Sharyland Utilities, L.L.C., a Texas-based electric transmission utility.  We are committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient transmission and substation services, ensuring operational excellence, and investing to support the infrastructure needs of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas grid.

Position Summary:

Are you a visionary leader in electric transmission operations? Do you thrive in high-stakes environments where reliability, innovation, and compliance intersect? We are seeking a dynamic Director of Transmission Grid Operations (TGO Director) to lead the development and operation of our state-of-the-art Transmission Operations Center (TOC) in the ERCOT region.

Reporting directly to the Vice President of Operations, this role is pivotal in ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient flow of electricity across our transmission network, including a 300 MW HVDC tie to Mexico’s national grid owned by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE). You’ll lead the charge in building new TOC facilities, staffing and training a high-performing team, and ensuring full compliance with NERC, TRE, and ERCOT standards.

This is an excellent opportunity to lead a mission-critical function in a fast-growing, innovative energy company and be at the forefront of grid modernization and cross-border energy integration.

Responsibilities:

• Project Management
  • Provide leadership in the siting of a new primary and backup TOC to support the Company’s grid operations.
  • Oversee design, construction, and commissioning of TOC facilities, including all applicable operating and control systems.

• Personnel Management
  • Successfully staff newly constructed TOC facilities with all necessary personnel.
  • Oversee development of all employee training programs consistent with NERC certification requirements.
  • Lead and develop teams of system operators, engineers, outage coordinators and other personnel involved in transmission operations.
  • Mentoring of teams responsible for coordination, communication and system restoration following disturbances.
  • Foster a culture of safety, efficiency and continuous improvement.
  • Provide technical guidance and support to the team and other stakeholders.

• Compliance
  • In collaboration with the Company’s Compliance team, oversee the development of all processes and procedures consistent with an electric transmission control center, including but not limited to NERC, TRE and ERCOT.
  • Support and, where applicable, directly lead compliance efforts during audits.

• Grid Operations
  • Managing system operations, outage planning, emergency management and asset performance.
  • Ensure reliability and safety of the transmission system while minimizing cost.
  • Monitor system performance, analyzing data and identifying areas for improvement.

• Strategic Planning
  • In collaboration with departmental peers, develop and implement strategies to enhance the transmission system.
  • Incorporation of new technologies to improve asset performance.

• Budget Management
  • Develop, manage and administer department budgets for operational and capital expenses.

• Stakeholder Engagement
  • Collaborate with various internal and external stakeholders, including, but not limited to, ERCOT, external peers, and regulators.

Required Skills & Experience: 

• A strong understanding of electric power systems, including high-voltage transmission and operational technologies and grid protocols within the ERCOT system.
• Proven leadership and management experience, including the ability to guide and develop teams.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data, solve problems and adapt to changing technologies and situations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with internal and external stakeholders at various levels.
• Familiarity with relevant regulations, operating protocols and industry standards.
• Skilled at providing leadership within a highly dynamic and nimble organization based on successful cross-functional teaming.
• Personally displays and encourages extreme ownership skills.

Education & Experience - Required

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 15 years’ experience in transmission grid operations and controls with successful track record of increasing responsibilities.

Education & Experience – Preferred

• Advanced degree (MSEE or MBA)
• 3 years’ experience in supervisory or management role within an operating transmission operating center

Company Highlights:

• For 90 years, we have nurtured creative ideas and turned them into successful realities using three core strategic pillars – creativity, excellence, and people. 
• 401K – 12% employer contribution with no vesting period (6% Match and 6% non-matching contribution)
• Highly competitive compensation
• Hybrid work options are available for most roles
• Five to eight weeks of PTO annually, based on years of experience; eleven additional holidays per calendar year
• All Medical/Dental/Vision benefits start day one with the company; low employee premiums 
• Education Assistance Program
• Free covered employee parking for Dallas HQ based employees
• Free specialty coffee bar in the Dallas HQ
• On-site breakfast and lunch area in the Dallas HQ
• Commitment to the following ideals:
  • Work/Life Balance
  • Ongoing professional development opportunities
  • An exceptional employee experience

Hunt is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Hunt is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.

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