Associate System Operator

Consumers Energy•Jackson, MI

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, serving 6.8 million residents across 68 Lower Peninsula counties. This role is an entry-level Control Room position focused on learning and mastering the safe operation of the electric grid according to the Electric Control Center Manual (ECCM). The Associate System Operator will train for and obtain an HVD or LVD certification within the first 12 months. Upon certification, they will independently monitor, analyze, and control the electric grid 24/7, ensuring system reliability and timely customer restoration in compliance with ECCM procedures, NERC standards, and regulatory requirements. Responsibilities include managing High Voltage Distribution (HVD) and Low Voltage Distribution (LVD) Substations and Lines, the Metro Underground Distribution Network, Grid Automation Schemes, and interconnections with Generation and Transmission providers under both normal and emergency conditions. The role involves administering switching and tagging orders and issuing worker conditions, clearances, and protections, as well as utilizing SCADA systems for remote monitoring and control.

Requirements

Ability to read and interpret complex prints and maps.
Basic understanding of department policies and procedures.
Ability to independently write, approve and execute switching and tagging orders of various complexities.
Knowledge of the various field work groups and associated responsibilities.
Ability to monitor and analyze SCADA systems and operate devices when needed in a timely manner.
Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Ability to operate a control room console independently with limited supervision in normal or emergency situations.
Strong communication skills (verbal, email, radio, phone, etc.)
Ability to remain calm in stressful and fast-paced situations.
Bachelor's degree OR Associate's degree with 2+ years of relevant experience OR High School diploma with 4+ years of relevant experience.
Obtain Consumers Energy LVD or HVD Certification within the first 12 months.

Responsibilities

Respond and direct field resources during emergent outages on the electric system; conduct necessary activities to support customer and equipment restoration as required per the ECCM.
Successfully complete all HVD Operator certification or LVD Operator certification training requirements which includes classroom training, OJT assessments, and simulator tests in 12 months or less.
Administer all types of scheduled outages on the electric system; direct field personal when removing/returning electric equipment from/to service, and issue the appropriate working conditions, clearances and/or protections as required per the ECCM.
Utilize SCADA and computer systems required to perform System Operator duties; Operate SCADA devices remotely when required.
Review scheduled and emergent switching and tagging orders for accuracy and compliance.
Maintain a HVD or LVD certification; successful completion of all continuing training requirements.
Work a rotating 24/7 shift including nights, weekends, and holidays; includes an on-call assignment.
Fill open shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays to maintain minimum control room staffing levels; Overtime necessary at times to support system and customer restoration.
Other duties as assigned or may be necessary