Job Summary:
The Real-Time Operations Engineer/Specialist position is responsible for providing direct engineering support to real-time operations. This includes the review of anticipated and historical system conditions, the use of various analysis tools in this review, and the development of appropriate responses to these system conditions. This is a 24 by 7 rotating shift position, with an additional purpose of proactively monitoring Energy Management System network analysis tools, including state estimator performance and resolving any problems that impact state estimator solution or availability.
Responsibilities
- Perform near-term, next-day, and current-day power system analysis using power flow, transient stability, voltage stability & steady-state analysis software, including PSSE, MUST, OSI Energy Management System analyst tools (SE, CA)
- Use available applications and programs (e.g., SDX, MISO Extranet, PJM EDart, etc.) to gather specific information that aids in NIPSCO Transmission System analysis.
- Maintain the present and planned network topology and equipment databases
- Apply contingency list and load, generation dispatch, and interchange levels and patterns to developed study cases
- Track system events contributing to operating guides and communicate to NIPSCO departments for future upgrades.
- Gather information as necessary to fulfill various regulatory agency and management data requests.
- Write and/or edit technical plans, processes, and procedures as assigned.
- Coordinate system changes with Transmission Planners, EMS Computer Engineers, Field Operations, Neighboring TOPs, and MISO.
- Coordinate transmission equipment ratings with Transmission Planners, EMS Computer Engineers, Field Operations, Neighboring TOPs, and MISO.
- Preparing or revise Operating Plans documenting their findings and mitigating actions
- Evaluate and coordinate Bulk Electric System outages as necessary during real-time
- Develop operating limits such as voltage/transient stability limits, and evaluate transmission constraints in real-time
- Identify constraint management options as necessary and on-demand.
- Maintain and respond to the degradation or failure of EMS network analysis tools, including proactive monitoring and mitigation of SE solution issues
- Provide the compliance focus and direction during abnormal and emergency conditions to ensure all the appropriate operating actions, reporting, notifications and decisions are being carried out in a timely manner.
- Assist the System Operator decisions in real-time and suggest actions to mitigate real-time/basecase emergencies and projected N-1 contingencies across the entire NIPSCO TOP area.
- Perform subject matter expert duties in compliance audits
- All other duties as assigned
Qualifications
This position may be filled as an engineer or specialist depending on degree and experience.
Engineer/Specialist I
Required for Selection:
- BS degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Mathematics, or Physics.
- Ability to perform 24 by 7 rotation shift (12 hour shift on weekends and 8 hour shift on weekdays) which could include holidays.
- Ability to obtain NERC Certification within a time frame specified by department procedure
- Understanding of basic electric power systems theory and principles
- Ability to perform operational planning analysis using power flow, transient stability, voltage stability & steady-state analysis software, including PSSE, OSI Energy Management System analysis tools (SE, CA).
- Ability to read and interpret Operating Plans documenting potential operational constraints and mitigations actions
- Ability to read and evaluate Bulk Electric System outages in the Operations Planning time horizon
- Ability to read and interpret technical plans, processes and procedures.
- Ability to perform basic network modeling tasks including reviewing network topology, rating changes, review/identify EMS displays issues, among others.
- Ability to work in a professional manner with internal groups within NIPSCO, and external entities/groups including customers, contractors, neighbor TOPs, MISO, NERC, RF, NAFT, vendors/suppliers, among others.
- Ability to deal with a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
- Good planning, organizational, verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to perform duties effectively under emergency and contingency situations
- Ability to perform self-guided study and training as instructed
Preferred for Selection:
- NERC Reliability Coordinator Certification
- Understanding of basic principles of project management
- PMP Certification
- Experience in the electric utility industry
Engineer/Specialist II
Required for Selection:
- All of the qualifications for Engineer/Specialist I including:
- 2 to 4 years of electric utility experience
- Increased understanding of basic electric power systems theory and principles
- Increased ability to perform operational planning analysis using power flow, transient stability, voltage stability & steady-state analysis software, including PSSE, OSI Energy Management System analyst tools (SE, CA).
- Ability to read, interpret, write and review Operating Plans documenting potential operational issues and mitigations actions
- Increased ability to evaluate and coordinate Bulk Electric System outages in the Operations Planning time horizon
- Ability to read, interpret, write and review technical plans, processes and procedures.
- Ability to perform intermediate network modeling tasks including identifying network topology issues, add new model for simple projects, add/modify contingencies, among others.
- Increased ability to work in a professional manner with internal groups within NIPSCO, and external entities/groups including customers, contractors, neighbor TOPs, MISO, NERC, RF, NAFT, vendors/suppliers, among others.
- Ability to deal with a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
- Increased ability to perform duties effectively under emergency and contingency situations
- Ability to support and train other employees on basic tasks
- Ability to effectively represent the group in projects and meetings involving various stakeholders across the organization.
- Ability to interpret and apply NERC standards.
Preferred for Selection:
- NERC Reliability Coordinator Certification
- Understanding of basic principles of project management
- PMP Certification
- Experience in the electric utility industry and knowledge of NIPSCO Transmission system
- General knowledge of electric substation equipment and operation
- General understanding of the Electric Wholesale Power Market
Engineer/Specialist III
Required for Selection:
- All of the qualifications for Engineer/Specialist II including:
- 4 to 9 years of electric utility experience
- Proficient in electric power systems theory and principles
- Proficient in performing operational planning analysis using power flow, transient stability, voltage stability & steady-state analysis software, including PSSE, OSI Energy Management System analyst tools (SE, CA).
- Proficient in writing and reviewing Operating Plans documenting potential operational issues and mitigations actions
- Proficient in evaluating and coordinating Bulk Electric System outages in the Operations Planning time horizon
- Proficient in writing, reviewing and suggesting improvements to technical plans, processes and procedures.
- Proficient in performing advanced network modeling tasks including troubleshooting network applications/topology issues, add new model for complex projects, QAS testing, among others.
- Proficient in working in a professional manner with internal groups within NIPSCO, and external entities/groups including customers, contractors, neighbor TOPs, MISO, NERC, RF, NAFT, vendors/suppliers, among others.
- Proficient in dealing with a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
- Proficient in planning, organizational, verbal and written communication skills
- Proficient in performing duties effectively under emergency and contingency situations
- Proficient in supporting, guiding and training other employees on advanced/complex tasks.
- Proficient in effectively representing the group in projects and meetings involving various stakeholders across the organization.
- Proficient in interpreting and applying NERC standards. Ability to perform subject matter expert duties in compliance audits
Preferred for Selection:
- NERC Reliability Coordinator Certification
- Proficient in principles of project management
- PMP Certification
- Experience in the electric utility industry and knowledge of NIPSCO Transmission system
- General knowledge of electric substation equipment and operation
- General understanding of the Electric Wholesale Power Market
Engineer/Specialist I: $69,900 - $105,000
Engineer/Specialist II: $82,200 - $123,200
Engineer/Specialist III: $96,600 - $144,900
The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.
As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.
Work Authorization
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.
Workplace Connection
We value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners.
We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.
Veteran Hiring & Inclusion
NiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.
Equal Employment Opportunity
NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.
By applying, you may also be considered for other roles that match your skills and experience.
ADA Accommodations
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at OneHR@nisource.com or 1-888-640-3320
Safety Statement
Safety is a core value at NiSource. Employees are expected to follow safety requirements, report hazards, and help maintain a safe environment for themselves and their coworkers.
E-Verify
NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. Please review the following notices regarding your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law.
Salary Range*:
$69,900.00 - $144,900.00
*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate’s skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.
Posting Start Date:
2026-08-05
Posting End Date (if applicable):
2026-08-19
Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
