Assoc/Distribution Operator
About The Position
The Associate Distribution Operator is a training position at MidAmerican Energy Company. Under the direction of a distribution operator or shift supervisor, the employee monitors and operates the 15 kV electric power system in accordance with company operating standards and guidelines. The role also supports the distribution operator and shift supervisor with callouts, dispatching, and other assigned work. The employee is expected to become proficient and move into the Distribution Operator position within 12 months of starting training. Performance is reviewed after 8–12 months. If the required standards are not met within 12 months, the employee receives a six-month remedial period and is then evaluated for possible advancement. Proficiency is determined through testing and observation. MidAmerican Energy Company provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The company owns and operates power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation. MidAmerican Energy Company is an equal opportunity employer. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.
Requirements
- Bachelor's or technical degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates without a bachelor's or technical degree typically need six years of related, progressive work experience.
- Three years of prior work experience in this field or a related field; examples include substation/transmission engineering, substation operations, and field operations.
- One year of distribution experience.
- Ability to work a rotating shift.
- Ability to clearly articulate key points, maintain listeners' attention, and take recipients' needs into account when speaking or writing.
- Ability to systematically analyze problems and issues, identify causes, anticipate implications, and identify effective courses of action.
- Ability to coordinate construction or maintenance projects to maximize efficiency while ensuring continued reliability.
- Ability to resolve conflicting demands diplomatically while maintaining system integrity and reliability of customer service during outage periods.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Effective analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of power system devices and operating characteristics.
- Technical skills related to understanding energy control and switching.
Responsibilities
- Complete training to become fully qualified as a distribution operator within 12 months of starting the training program.
- Under direction, conduct real-time actions to ensure safe, reliable, and economic operation of the 15 kV electrical system, monitoring and responding to disturbances involving distribution equipment and taking appropriate steps to restore service.
- Under direction, direct emergency switching on the 15 kV electrical system and restore service as safely and quickly as possible.
- Work closely with transmission operators to maintain clear and open communication between transmission and distribution systems during incidents or when actions are needed.
- Operate the 15 kV distribution system according to good utility practice criteria and company operating standards and guidelines.
- Perform additional responsibilities as requested or assigned.
- Provide technical input to assist in project planning.
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of human performance improvement techniques.
- Evaluate current practices and implement processes, concepts, training, and tools to prevent, detect, and correct human errors that could adversely affect safe and reliable operation of the electric transmission and distribution system.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
