MISO’s Operator Readiness & Development team equips control room operators and engineers with the advanced skills and scenario-based experience needed to perform safely, reliably, and confidently under both normal and abnormal grid conditions. We are seeking an Operator Training & Simulation Program Manager, a key leader and practitioner responsible for designing, delivering, and continuously improving high‑fidelity simulation training and member drills that directly support grid reliability across the MISO footprint.
About the Role:
This role is responsible for leading MISO’s operator readiness simulation & drill program, developing and delivering realistic training experiences that strengthen readiness for normal, abnormal, and emergency operating scenarios. They will partner with operations, technology and industry partners to ensure simulation & drill activities support operational excellence and reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Facilitate simulation training and operator/member drills (4 regular annual member drills per year) for control room operators and engineers, establishing a psychologically safe and operationally rigorous learning environment
- Lead the full lifecycle of simulation scenario design - from needs assessment to scripting, configuration, testing, and continuous refinement.
- Build and maintain a robust library of scenarios spanning normal operations, abnormal events, and emergency conditions.
- Collaborate with Operators, SMEs, engineering teams, and system support groups to ensure operational accuracy and alignment with MISO procedures and real‑world system conditions.
- Deliver individual and team‑based simulation sessions and large‑scale drills for operators, engineers, and members.
- Conduct effective pre‑briefs and psychologically safe, high‑quality debriefs that reinforce decision‑making and operational excellence.
- Adjust facilitation approaches based on participant experience - from trainees to seasoned operators.
- Conduct ongoing training needs assessments to identify skill gaps and prioritize new scenario development.
- Align simulation content with NERC standards, operating procedures, and emerging grid conditions.
- Develop and execute an evaluation framework including competency tracking, pre/post assessments, and outcome-based measurement.
- Use data insights to strengthen program effectiveness and operator performance.
- Partner with instructional designers and LMS administrators to ensure accurate documentation, assignment, and tracking of learning content.
- Support internal and external customers using strong communication and relationship‑building skills.
- Drive improvements in simulation processes, tools, and instructional practices.
Required Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, business, or related field ( or equivalent experience)
- 6+ years of relevant experience
- Prior control room operator or engineer experience strongly preferred.
- Hands‑on expertise with GE EMS or equivalent control room simulator platforms.
- Demonstrated skill in scenario-based training design and facilitation in high‑stakes or safety‑critical environments.
- Strong project management, analytical, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- NERC Certification
- Experience with MISO or other ISO/RTO operating desks.
We seek someone who takes ownership, embraces innovation, builds strong partnerships, and thrives in a dynamic, mission‑critical environment.
Appropriate level will be determined based upon experience and knowledge.
Transformative innovation is happening in the electric industry, from digitalizing homes and distributed resources to renewable energy and an ever-changing grid. MISO manages the electricity superhighway in the Central U.S. and through use of groundbreaking research and advanced technology, our highly skilled employees ensure power flows reliably to 45 million Americans. Operating the electricity grid, running a robust energy market, planning for a bright future – it’s what our immensely hardworking and dedicated team does every day.
The base salary compensation range being offered for this role is $129,000 - $154,000 USD annually. Base salary range for this position is included in accordance with requirements of various state/local pay transparency legislation. Please note that salaries may vary for different individuals in the same role based on several factors, including but not limited to location of the role, individual competencies, education/professional certifications, and qualifications/experience.
Position is also eligible for an annual bonus if individual performance and company objectives are met. At MISO we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including 401k, vacation, sick and safe time, available on your first day of employment.
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