Distribution System Operations Real-Time Reliability Coordinator

The DSO Real-Time Reliability Coordinator provides real-time evaluation and coordination of DER impacts to support reliable DDC operations. This role works across DDCs, the SCC, Transmission, engineering, planning, applications, and external stakeholders to identify reliability risks, communicate system constraints, recommend mitigation strategies, and support DER-enabled grid services. The Coordinator level is expected to perform core duties with increasing independence while helping mature DSO operational models, tools, documentation, and coordination practices., * Monitor, assess, and communicate real-time impacts of DERs/DERAs on distribution system reliability, including voltage, loading, protection coordination, backfeed, and operating limits.

• Coordinate with DDCs, SCC, Transmission, and other partners to incorporate DER impacts into switching, restoration, planned work, grid services, and other real-time operating actions.
• Identify DER-related system constraints, emerging reliability risks, and mitigation strategies; communicate recommendations clearly during normal and critical system conditions.
• Perform real-time and look-ahead reliability assessments and contingency analyses to support operational decision-making.
• Support DER/DERA grid service operations, including voltage support, load management, restoration support, resiliency applications, and evolving FERC Order 2222/market participation needs.
• Maintain accurate operational records and support process, tool, and documentation improvements for DERMS, ADMS, distribution automation, FLISR, Volt/VAR, and related capabilities.

• Two (2) year Technical degree in Electrical/Electronic engineering or equivalent
• OR High School and two (2) years experience operating a civil or military power system, * In addition to the experience requirements included in the education requirements, Six (6) months or more experience in distribution operations, transmission operations, dispatching, system operations, reliability coordination, DER operations, technical customer support/service, or another relevant utility operations capacity. External experience in dispatching, system operations, or reliability coordination will be evaluated.

Must satisfactorily complete all required training, qualification requirements, and testing to progress to the next level within the DSO Real-Time Reliability Coordinator progression framework within the established timeframe or vacate the position.

License/Certifications:

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license., * Two (2) year Technical degree in Electrical/Electronic engineering or equivalent OR High School and two (2) years experience operating a civil or military power system., * In addition to the experience requirements included in the education requirements, Two (2) years or more experience in distribution operations, transmission operations, dispatching, system operations, reliability coordination, DER operations, technical customer support/service, or another relevant utility operations capacity.
• External experience in dispatching, system operations, or reliability coordination will be evaluated.

License/Certifications:

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license., * Two (2) year Technical degree in Electrical/Electronic engineering or equivalent OR High School and two (2) years’ experience operating a civil or military power system., * In addition to the experience requirements included in the education requirements, Four (4) years or more experience in distribution operations, transmission operations, dispatching, system operations, reliability coordination, DER operations, technical customer support/service, or another relevant utility operations capacity.
• External experience in dispatching, system operations, or reliability coordination will be evaluated.

License/Certifications:

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Certifications associated with NERC, EPRI, or RTO/ISOs may be required as the AEP DSO and industry requirements evolve

In addition:

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced operations environment, communicate clearly, follow instructions, and make sound decisions during critical system conditions.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including operations personnel, customers, management, technical writers, and subject matter experts.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, accept on-call responsibilities, respond to callouts, and occasionally travel for training or cross-exposure opportunities.
• Must successfully complete required training, testing, and progression requirements established by the business.
• Must reside within, or be willing to relocate within, two hours of the reporting location if required by the business.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of distributed energy resources (DERs), distributed energy resource aggregations (DERAs), virtual power plants, utility grid operations, real-time protection and control, cybersecurity, and DER communications.
• Familiarity with ADMS, DERMS, distribution automation, FLISR, Volt/VAR optimization, overcurrent coordination, islanding strategies, wholesale energy markets, RTO/ISO operations, and FERC Order 2222 impacts on distribution operations

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company - we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you’re passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!