Operations Lead Jobs in Ohio

Job Posting End Date

06-29-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

The Real Time Operations Lead is responsible for the day-to-day oversight and support of one or more 24x7 desks within the Real Time Operations (RTO) Reliability/Response teams. This position ensures the safe and reliable operation of the AEP transmission system, overseeing technical expertise and coordination responsibilities for System Control Center (SCC) Reliability Coordinators or Transmission Dispatch System Operators. Key responsibilities include technical leadership concerning Real Time Assessments, Real Time Monitoring and Control functions, Operating Plan development, facility outage coordination, switching and tagging and maintaining compliance with NERC Reliability Standards, RTO policies, and all other operational agreements. The Real Time Operations Lead will serve as a subject matter expert regarding desk operations, situational awareness tools, and other operational applications to collaborate with various business units across the company and with external industry organizations to foster operational excellence and ensure continuity of service, safety, and reliability.

What You'll Do:

• Oversee the coordination of the AEP transmission system across various RTO regions, ensuring compliance with NERC Reliability Standards and internal policies.
• Oversee the training program for operator personnel, including assignment of training materials, on-the-job training, and maintenance of training documentation.
• Assist in developing switching instructions for safe removal and restoration of transmission equipment, prioritizing safety for personnel and customers.
• Lead the coordination and scheduling activities of transmission outages with AEP distribution, transmission, generation, and interconnected entities including RTOs, as applicable.
• Collaborate with distribution dispatching centers per the Transmission and Distribution interface policy.
• Lead real-time operational functions of operators, maintaining proper voltage levels, equipment loadings, and notification of equipment abnormalities.
• Initiate and participate in investigations related to transmission and distribution events, analyzing causes of faults, equipment failures, and service interruptions.
• Propose enhancements to transmission circuits and stations to improve reliability, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Review, validate, and recommend changes to policies, procedures, and operational guidelines to maintain NERC compliance and improve operational/organizational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with established procedures and policies, initiating emergency procedures and advising personnel of any observed failures.
• Lead technical initiatives that enhance efficiencies and processes within Real Time Operations supporting consistency across the AEP footprint.
• Keep management informed of significant events, complaints, and concerns that may need to be escalated.
• Support real-time operation team during emergency events.

What We're Looking For:

Education:

• Associate’s degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology, or a related field, with ten (10) years of experience as defined below; OR
• High School diploma with twelve (12) years of experience as defined below.

Experience:

• Minimum of ten (10) years of experience with a two-year degree, or
• Minimum of twelve (12) years with a High School diploma/GED
• Experience must be related to real time operations with thorough knowledge of reliability and/or dispatching operations.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Must possess and maintain, or obtain within 12 months, NERC certification at the Reliability Coordinator level or Transmission Operator level.
• Must possess and maintain, or obtain within 12 months, any required Real Time Operations certifications and/or credentials applicable to functional area.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.

Other Requirements:

• Decision-Making and Operational Leadership: Ability to quickly analyze system conditions, make informed decisions under pressure, and take responsibility for work outcomes to ensure operational efficiency.
• Leadership and Collaboration: Proven capability to organize, direct, and coordinate team efforts effectively, working collaboratively with distribution dispatching centers according to Transmission and Distribution interface policy.
• Communication Skills: Strong oral and written communication skills for professional interactions with team members, customers, and leadership, both within AEP and in external industry connections.
• Commitment to Excellence: Dedication to continuous improvement, operational excellence, and safety, ensuring high standards in work processes.
• Industry and Technical Knowledge: Knowledge of AEP Transmission and Distribution Switching and Tagging policies, NERC standards, RTO policies, and reliability/dispatching operations, along with a thorough understanding of the transmission system and situational awareness tools (e.g., SCADA, EMS platforms).
• Safety Protocols: Must possess strong knowledge of AEP safety procedures. Must have demonstrated experience in developing safe switching instructions for transmission equipment, prioritizing safety for personnel and customers. Station entry expertise preferred.
• Extended Hours and Travel: Flexibility to work extended hours (up to 16) or night shifts during major events or emergencies as needed. Occasional travel for training, site visits, or other industry related needs may be required.

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-010

Compensation Range:

$136,539.00 - $177,503.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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!

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.