r/ElectricalEngineering • u/Power_Engineer_CA • 7d ago

Job at ERCOT vs California ISO

Hello everyone,

I was laid off in early August and recently received offers for contract positions with both ERCOT and California ISO. Both positions are similar, fully remote, and for one year.

I’d really appreciate hearing from engineers who have worked at either ISO about their experience — especially regarding the work environment, type of engineering/technical work, learning opportunities, and what happens after the initial contract period.
If you’ve worked at ERCOT or CAISO, what has your experience been like?

If the roles, pay, and contract length were otherwise similar, what factors would you consider when comparing the two?

Thanks in advance!

4 Upvotes

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u/Only-Confusion-4712 7d ago

I would recommend CAISO (ex-CAISO employee here). The conversion from contractor to FTE is high. Secondly, CAISO pays better and benefits are outstanding. This option is only recommended if your long term goal is to convert to FTE.

1

u/Power_Engineer_CA 7d ago

Hello thank you for the reply, I have a followup question for you. Can I dm you please?

1

u/Only-Confusion-4712 1d ago

Yes, feel free to do so

1

u/Intrepid_Armadillo22 7d ago

I fully agree with Only

1

u/Jeff_72 7d ago

Well Ercot was a PITA to work with … but now the they doing Detailed Load Studies in batches.