Associate System Operator

Consumers Energy•Jackson, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, serving 6.8 million residents across 68 Lower Peninsula counties. The Associate System Operator is an entry-level Control Room position focused on learning and mastering the tasks required for the safe operation of the electric grid, as detailed in the Electric Control Center Manual (ECCM). The role involves a 36-month commitment period, during which internal job applications are restricted. The position is onsite at the Jackson Service Center in Jackson, MI, and requires the selected candidate to be within commuting distance or willing to relocate, with relocation assistance available. This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship, including H-1B, TN, CPT, or STEM OPT.

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

Learn and demonstrate proficiency on all tasks required to safely operate the electric grid as described in the Electric Control Center Manual (ECCM).
Train to obtain a HVD or LVD certification within the first 12 months.
Independently monitor, analyze, and control CE's electric grid 24/7 to ensure system reliability and timely customer restoration in accordance with ECCM procedures, NERC standards, and regulatory requirements.
Be responsible for CE's High Voltage Distribution (HVD) and Low Voltage Distribution (LVD) Substations and Lines, Metro Underground Distribution Network, Grid Automation Schemes, and interconnection points with Generation and Transmission providers for both normal and emergency conditions.
Administer switching and tagging orders and issue worker conditions, clearances, and/or protections in accordance with the ECCM.
Utilize SCADA systems to monitor, analyze, and control the electric system remotely.
Respond to 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, including classroom training, OJT assessments, and simulator tests, within 12 months.
Administer all types of scheduled outages on the electric system; direct field personnel when removing/returning electric equipment from/to service, and issue appropriate working conditions, clearances, and/or protections as required per the ECCM.
Operate SCADA devices remotely when required.
Review scheduled and emergent switching and tagging orders for accuracy and compliance.
Maintain a HVD or LVD certification, including successful completion of all continuing training requirements.
Work a rotating 24/7 shift including nights, weekends, and holidays, and be subject to on-call assignments.
Fill open shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to maintain minimum control room staffing levels.
Work overtime as necessary to support system and customer restoration.
Perform other duties as assigned or necessary.