Distribution System Operator

Eversource Energy•Windsor, CT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Eversource Energy is the largest Energy delivery company in New England, supporting 4.4 million Gas and Electric customers across CT, MA, and NH. This role is crucial for ensuring the reliable operation of the electric distribution system. The Distribution System Operator will plan, coordinate, direct, and supervise switching and tagging, write and issue clearances, monitor loads, and manage emergency restoration efforts. This position requires close coordination with other regions and serves as a switching director as assigned. The operator will monitor and operate the Network Management System (NMS) and SCADA equipment, handle trouble calls, direct corrective actions, and inform relevant personnel of system issues and restoration progress. They will also monitor load and voltages, assist during emergency restoration, maintain operations diagrams and databases, and coordinate with CONVEX system operators. The role involves preparing and maintaining system operations records and reports, coordinating emergency load shedding, and potentially assisting in training new operators. The operator will also develop and maintain operating instructions, coordinate regional dispatching activities, and operate PC-based and mainframe applications. This position is subject to on-call duty.

Requirements

Six years of related electrical utility experience.
Must successfully pass the SO/PD Test.
Ability to function under stress of emergency situations for extended periods of time.
Thorough knowledge of the switching and tagging procedures.
Thorough knowledge of electric distribution system operation.
Thorough knowledge of applicable PC-based and other current and future technologies.
Ability to communicate and work effectively with various levels of the organization and outsiders involved with electric distribution operations.
Ability to analyze electric distribution system problems and act accordingly.
Ability to effectively direct the work of others.
Ability to act as customer advocate by assuring accurate and timely information is communicated on ETRs and restoration remarks.
Applicants must successfully pass the SO/PD (System Operator/Power Dispatcher) Test, which is a requirement to be selected for this position.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree in electrical technology preferred or the equivalent.

Responsibilities

Monitors, operates and maintains Network Management System including the operation of SCADA equipment.
Plans, writes, checks, approves, directs, issues clearances and monitors orders for switching, grounding and tagging instructions for the distribution system.
Receives trouble calls (tickets) from customer service center, analyzes the problem, initiates corrective action with appropriate district function including call-out of personnel in accordance with established procedures.
Directs corrective action as required by timing or circumstances, and informs appropriate system personnel (customer service center, T&D staff, districts, etc.) of problems on the electric distribution system and associated restoration progress.
Monitors load and voltages on circuits and substation equipment during switching and peak periods to assure loading parameters are not exceeded.
Assists at Division EOCs and other levels of RMTs during emergency storm restoration as assigned.
Maintains the Company’s operations diagrams and associated databases to reflect current system status.
Operates and maintains database for NMS system (new customers circuit changes, etc.) through existing and replacement technologies (i.e.OMS to Mobile, DMS,etc.).
Monitors SCADA, substation system alarms.
Coordinates CONVEX switching requirements between CONVEX system operators and appropriate region and/or district personnel for assigned shift.
Prepares, disseminates, and maintains the system operations center records and reports in support of system operations (i.e., circuit and equipment loads, nomenclature, interruption reports, emergency contact telephone numbers for governmental agencies, large customers, other utilities, and others).
Coordinates with CONVEX Black Start Procedure, and emergency load shedding in accordance with current Eversource Operating Instructions.
May be upgraded to supervisor status as assigned on a voluntary basis.
May serve in the status of "Chief Dispatcher" whereas the individual will assist the Shift Supervisor in ensuring the workload of the shift and all applicable system configuration and risk are discussed and understood in the area of responsibility.
Assists in training new Distribution System Operators or others, including assisting in NMS class instruction and switching and tagging procedures to company personnel.
Develops, writes and maintains, in conjunction with Grid Management on operating instructions for company and customer distribution facilities.
Operates PC-based and mainframe applications.
Coordinates regional dispatching activities with appropriate Eversource personnel and outside personnel (i.e., other companies, government agencies, including: police, fire department, Department of Environmental Protection, large customer's plant engineers, etc.).
Subject to on-call duty.
Responding to emergency situations to meet customers’ needs is part of every employee’s role. If employed, you will be given an Emergency Restoration assignment. This means you may be called to assist during an emergency outside of your normal responsibilities, work hours and location.