Distribution Operations Technician

Pedernales Electric Cooperative•Kyle, TX

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Distribution Operations Technician (DOT) is responsible for monitoring, identifying, investigating and correcting the Geographic Information System (GIS) database to ensure accuracy. This role provides technical support to members, the cooperative, contract crews, and Distribution Designers. The DOT serves as a liaison between districts and System Maintenance, monitoring the distribution system for proper and reliable operations within established policies, procedures, and regulations. Key responsibilities include maintaining the integrity of the electric distribution system, coordinating routine and emergency switching, and ensuring accurate connectivity and equipment representation in the Cooperative’s electrical model. The position also focuses on power quality of feeders, identifying problem areas for Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) and vegetation projects, and assisting in the coordination and management of the service work process. The DOT utilizes the distribution mapping system for research and corrections, acts as a subject matter expert for mapping processes, and manages member complaints related to power problems by installing voltage recorders. They review, assign, and document all mapping changes, interface with field personnel, and initiate work orders. Accurate record-keeping, oil spill cleanup, participation in outage restoration, infrared/TVI/RFI testing, load balancing, and operating PEC vehicles are also essential functions. The role requires staying updated on technological advancements and maintaining the security of confidential information, along with demonstrating regular and prompt attendance.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent
DOL Journeyman Certification
Two years of experience in service order processing or equivalent
Valid Texas Driver’s License and Motor Vehicle Report that comply with PEC policy
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 Operations processes
Knowledge of troubleshooting processes
Knowledge of mapping system
Knowledge of outage management system and restoration processes
Skilled in monitoring and coordinating processes
Skilled in utilization of internal processes specific to the Cooperative
Skilled in time management
Skilled in prioritizing and managing changing priorities
Skilled in anticipating, identifying, analyzing and resolving conflict and problems
Ability to establish and effective relationships with internal and external customers
Ability to operate dispatch equipment and serve as dispatcher during Emergency Operations Procedures or restoration processes
Ability to perform troubleshooting techniques
Ability to successfully manage priorities and processes
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

Responsibilities

Provide technical support to members, cooperative, contract crews and Distribution Designers
Communicate problems to the appropriate department
Serve as the liaison between the districts and System Maintenance
Monitor the distribution system to ensure proper, reliable operations within the Cooperative’s established policies procedures and regulations
Maintain and monitor the integrity of the electric distribution system, including coordination of routine and emergency switching and service restoration
Ensure optimum system operations conditions
Reflect accurate connectivity and equipment within the Cooperative’s electrical model
Responsible for power quality of feeders as they exit the substation
Patrol feeders and identify problem areas for Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) and vegetation projects
Assist in coordination, assignment and management of service work process
Responsible for distribution electric equipment, including maintenance and testing
Utilize the distribution mapping system for research and corrections
Serve as the subject matter expert for mapping processes
Manage member complaints that evolve from power problems i.e. installing voltage recorders
Review, assign and document all actions related to mapping changes
Interface with field personnel
Initiate work orders that can be completed by the DOT or maintenance crew
Maintain accurate records of all work
Ensure oil spill clean up and complete paperwork
Participate in outage restoration processes, as assigned
Participate in infrared, TVI/RFI testing and repair
Participate in load balancing and transfer processes and switching orders
Operate PEC vehicle(s) for business purposes in accordance with applicable Federal, State, and local law and PEC policies and procedures
Maintain driver eligibility through appropriate valid Texas Driver's License and driving record in accordance with PEC policy
Stay abreast of advances in technology
Maintain the security of confidential information
Demonstrate regular and prompt attendance
Performs other related duties as necessary or assigned