Distribution System Operator

Position Summary

This position is responsible for coordinating, directing switching and tagging; writing, checking and issuing clearances to field personnel; monitoring of loads, emergency restoration and associated reporting for the electric distribution system. Coordinates the above activities with LCRA and/or the PEC Transmission Control Center and other regions when system conditions cross jurisdictional lines.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist with training staff that supports 24/7 real-time control system integrity to ensure the highest operational reliability and system availability.
• Provide efficient direction of restoration activities during assigned shift
• Serves as switching authority as assigned by Distribution Operations Center Manager
• Responsible for proper adherence to cooperative policies, operating instructions and procedures
• Responsible for accurate, safe and current switching and tagging instruction for assigned operations
• Timely and accurate reporting on assigned operations
• Respond to system operation failures or abnormalities and recommend corrective action
• Communicate with dispatchers, engineers and field crews
• Perform trouble shooting, problem analysis and resolution
• Analyze and validate data to maintain system integrity and power restoration
• Develop, approve, analyze and generates daily reports
• Utilize SCADA software and hardware to control and monitor the cooperative distribution grid under general supervision
• Utilize one lines for the issuance of switching procedures
• Maintain outage, substation and system records and provides to other departments as needed
• Coordinate and perform switching as required for authorized personnel
• Maintain the security of confidential information
• Stay abreast of advances in technology
• Demonstrate regular and prompt attendance

Supervisory and/or Leadership Responsibilities

May provide technical direction to others

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of using computer systems, which may include setting up and using hardware and software programs, entering data or processing information
• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer service
• Knowledge of the SCADA host system
• Knowledge of basic electricity
• Knowledge of electrical switching requirements
• Knowledge of National Electrical Safety Code and electrical utility operational procedures
• Knowledge of radio use etiquette
• Skilled in time management
• Skilled in managing changing priorities
• Skilled in mathematical abilities
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Ability to listen to and understand information verbally and in writing
• Ability to anticipate, identify, analyze and resolve conflict and problems
• Ability to listen to and understand information verbally and in writing

Minimum Qualifications - (Education, Experience)

• Associate's Degree in Engineering Technology or related technical field
• Three years of directly related experience
• Directly related work experience may substitute for education
• Valid Texas Driver's License

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• The employee may be required to stand; reach with hands and arms, stoop and kneel
• The employee may be required to sit or stand for long periods of time
• The employee may be required to lift, carry, push, pull or move up to 25 pounds
• The employee may be required to travel
• This position requires shift work including nights, weekends, holidays and 10-12 hour workdays
• This position requires after hours on-call
• This position is primarily in a secure control room environment and intermittently in the field
• The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions including wet and/or humid conditions
• The employee may be required to work from ladders in confined spaces and occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; risk of electrical shock; toxic or caustic chemicals
• Exempt employees receive a fixed bi-weekly salary to compensate them for all hours worked during each pay period
• This position may be required to work more than 40 hours per week