Associate System Operator Internship Summer 2027

Objective:

Join WVPA as an Intern Associate System Operator and gain hands-on experience in our Operations Center. Youll learn how System Operators communicate with utilities and members ensure safe and reliable energy delivery and use advanced monitoring and control systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Learn NERC and PJM certification requirements for transmission operations.
• Support communications with Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs) member cooperatives and WVPA staff for planned and unplanned outages.
• Monitor transmission and distribution systems using Energy Management Systems (EMS) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems (SCADA).
• Assist with outage coordination equipment monitoring and service restoration.
• Shadow field technicians and system administrators on SCADA/EMS operations and equipment calibration.
• Observe protection relay system operations and troubleshoot mis-operations.
• Participate in operational planning for mobile substations and storm response.
• Support other Operations Center activities and special projects as assigned.

What Youll Gain:

• Real-world exposure to a 24/7/365 Operations Center environment.
• Understanding of electric power system reliability standards and regulatory compliance.
• Hands-on experience coordinating with IOUs member systems and internal teams.
• Opportunities to observe and assist in transmission and substation operations.

Qualifications :

Requirements:

• Currently pursuing a bachelors degree in engineering or bachelors or associates degree in engineering technology at an ABET accredited program.  Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology preferred.
• Interest in transmission/substation operations and energy systems.
• Flexibility to participate in occasional 12-hour shifts including evenings and weekends. 
• Occasional travel to member sites substations and IOUs.

Additional Information :

Wabash Valley Power Alliance reserves the right to request official or unofficial transcripts as part of the selection process to verify educational qualifications coursework academic standing and/or eligibility for the internship.

This is a paid summer internship opportunity located in Indianapolis Indiana. Please note that housing or a housing stipend is not provided.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA FMLA and other federal state and local standards including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular punctual attendance consistent with the ADA FMLA and other federal state and local standards

Working Conditions:

• Works indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines

Remote Work :

No

Employment Type :

Intern