Distribution Operator
About The Position
The Distribution Operator coordinates and operates electric distribution facilities under directive supervision and dispatches electric and gas outage and trouble notifications. The role supports continuity of service through switching, circuit analysis, monitoring and operation of distribution devices, outage response, and coordination with Section Operators and Division operating personnel. When assigned, the operator leads overall distribution switching operations. The position also maintains records and system diagrams, recognizes unusual conditions, and communicates them to responsible operating personnel. Employees may be assigned a system emergency role and may be required to work outside their regular schedule or duties during a system emergency.
Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, an associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, or a passing score on a test designed by the Company or a Company-approved provider.
- Successfully complete a Company-administered aptitude test.
- Absorb Company training in Distribution Operating work, as measured by appropriate job-knowledge tests. Training includes knowledge of generating stations; transmission and distribution lines; substations; gas distribution systems; Company territory geography; Company Safety Rules; Switching and Tagging Procedures; protection systems; and standard procedures for gas operations.
- Pass a physical examination by a Company physician, including color-perception testing.
- Pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in the random drug-testing program.
- Possess analytical ability and emotional stability.
- Be neat and orderly in work and preparation of records.
- Be willing to work extra or irregular hours, work a shift schedule, and respond to emergencies.
- Be able to receive and transmit orders and instructions in a manner that inspires respect and confidence.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and create switching for outages of distribution lines and equipment for testing; under directive supervision, coordinate and operate electric distribution facilities and dispatch electric and gas outage and trouble notifications.
- Support maintenance and repairs that assure continuity of service in cooperation with Section Operators and Division operating personnel.
- Issue switching orders for de-energizing, grounding, tagging, and re-energizing distribution facilities.
- Ensure strict observance of Electric Switching and Tagging Procedures and standard procedures for gas operations.
- Analyze distribution circuits to ensure proper operation in real time and under contingency conditions.
- Initially analyze electric outages and trouble, and initiate actions to minimize interruptions.
- Oversee distribution switching operations in a lead role when assigned.
- Operate and monitor supervisory-controlled electric distribution devices.
- Log data and keep records up to date.
- Update system diagrams and programs to match current field conditions.
- Receive electric and gas trouble and outage calls and dispatch crews through the Outage Management System.
- Recognize unusual conditions and situations and inform responsible Corporate or Division operating personnel.
- Perform other related or less-skilled work as required.
