Operations Training Coordinator (Hybrid) - California ISO

The California Independent System Operator (ISO) manages the flow of electricity across the high-voltage, long-distance power lines that make up 80 percent of California's power grid. We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by operating the grid reliably 24/7.

As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market that is designed to diversify resources and lower prices. It also grants equal access to 25,865 circuit-miles of power lines and reduces barriers to diverse resources competing to bring power to customers.

The California ISO's function is often compared to that of air traffic controllers. It would be grossly unfair for air traffic controllers to represent one airline and profit from allowing that company's planes to go through before others. In the same way, the California ISO operates independently—managing the electron traffic on a power grid we do not own—making sure electricity is safely delivered to utilities and consumers on time and reliably.

The California ISO is committed to the health, safety, and work/life integration of it employees and is proud to offer flexible work arrangements. This position would be eligible to participate in a on-site or hybrid schedule. 

Relocation Assistance is available.

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

Under the direction of the Manager, Operations Training, contributes to the strategy and instructional integrity of curriculum development and facilitation of training programs for ISO Operations personnel, other ISO departments, and external entities as required. Supports the planning, scheduling, logistics, tracking, metrics and compliance of Grid Operations training. Works with internal and external trainers and SMEs to coordinate training events and develop the appropriate associated training documentation.  Assists with the preparation and submittal of documents, reports, presentations or correspondence for regulatory and/or industry requirements and as needed for other purposes. Supports training-related activities that are facilitated through various meetings, reports, and assorted administrative tasks. Assists with other departmental programs and objectives as required. Utilizes technical expertise in the areas of remote training, e-learning and computer based training to assist with changes in the roadmap of, and enhancements to the future of Operations Training.  Participates in industry related training and other activities to remain abreast of industry standards and leading edge technology for e-learning, remote training, and computer based training. Assists in determining operator needs as they relate to training and provides subject matter expertise to ISO business units regarding issues related to Training.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supports software upgrades for Learning Management System-related database builds. Coordinates and performs system maintenance and improvement activities to support the effectiveness of Learning Management Systems and other training databases. Responsible for the evaluation, planning and testing of changes that impact the Learning Management System environment to support system modifications and maintenance activities. Works across divisions for the support of training program applications and partners with IT, third party vendors and internal support teams to improve the quality of the Learning Management System and Operator training experiences.
   
• Monitors to ensure that training developed and delivered by all instructors is accomplished following the Systematic Approach to Training (SAT).  Develops course schedule, course catalog, schedule of classes.  Uses company distribution channels to communicate training opportunities to Operations and other appropriate California ISO employees.  Supports delivery of training courses of a general Operations business nature, such as New Hire Dispatcher Orientation, Facilities Tour Safety Program, NERC CEH Program. Coordinates and schedules training sessions for ISO personnel, and external entities as appropriate. Ensures logistics for Operations Training courses are appropriately executed and coordinated with instructor and participants.  Assists with the administration of the Operations Trainee/New Dispatcher Training, Initial and Continuous Training Programs.  Supports efforts to effectively respond to training-related concerns or questions.
   
• Responsible for performing analysis of existing training material to determine appropriateness of converting delivery method from instructor-led to e-learning. Provides technical support regarding the design, development, implementation and delivery of changes to the training material for the execution of e-learning in compliance with NERC CE program and Standards requirements. Responsible for the development and implementation of the conversion of the training to e-learning and advises others regarding this process as appropriate.  Collaborates with colleagues to develop “best practices" and to identify and resolve issues to help create flexible and efficient processes. 
   
• Advises other trainers and facilitators of training regarding the SAT process. Provides support to department trainers and staff in the areas of Learning Management System and other training databases. Responsible for maintaining training related data and curriculum in training databases and the Learning Management System.  Maintains training records and reports utilizing learning management system (LMS) and other eRecord repositories (Sharepoint, etc).  Creates spreadsheets, databases or other tracking tools to report on training metrics.  Communicates with employees and management regarding status in programs.  Analyzes trends in training programs and outcomes and provide input to the team on the value and applicability of courses offered.

Level of Education and Discipline:

An Associate’s degree (AA) or equivalent education, training or experience in Adult Education, Web-based Instructional design, or related field. 
 

Amount of Experience

Three (3) or more years of related experience.
 

Special Certifications of Technical Skills

NERC System Operator Certification preferred but not required. 
 

Type of Experience

Experience with QTS/QTD Learning Management System is a plus. Project coordination experience including demonstrated ability to manage detailed assignments and to manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Demonstrated ability to develop creative and innovative solutions. Knowledge of learning theories and instructional design models. Knowledge of learning assessment methodologies. Working knowledge of the ISO Tariff, Protocols, CAISO Reliability and Market operations preferred. Electric industry experience preferred. Previous experience training electrical system operators and system dispatchers preferred.
 

Additional Skills and Abilities

Ability to think through complex technical problems and implement feasible solutions.  Must be able to work effectively in a team environment as facilitator and team leader.  Strong writing, communication, and documentation skills required, with a demonstrated attention to detail.  Ability to use deductive reasoning and analytical thinking with sound judgment and decision-making skills.  Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills are also essential.  Must be a self-starter and willing to work independently in a dynamic corporate organization under pressure of tight deadlines with minimal supervision.  Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite.

Ability to design and develop training programs using a variety of mediums. Ability to design web-based and instructor-led training according to Systematic Approach to Training principals and adult learning practices. Ability to develop and edit eLearning content using learning development tools. Ability to independently consult with internal customers to assess training needs and related performance and process issues. Ability to research and implement new learning approaches and technologies to support the needs of the business and to assist with training program evolution. Ability to administer and maximize the use of Learning Management Systems. Ability to build and manage internal and external customer relationships at all levels of the organization.

The pay range for the Operations Training Coordinator at the CAISO is $32.16 - $53.60 per hour.