Distribution System Operator

Southern Company • Gulfport, MS

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

This position is responsible for the effective operation of the company's electric distribution system. This is accomplished through monitoring and operating the distribution system through the current and future systems used in the Customer Operations Department; dispatching employees appropriately for restoration and daily work; preparing and instructing switching; and informing the appropriate departments, employees, and customers on the condition of the electrical and/or customer accounting issues.

Requirements

• 3 or more years’ experience in the electrical utility field, such as dispatching, electric utility, or military (electrical or Control Center) experience preferred.
• Engineering degree may be considered in lieu of experience.
• Successful completion of the Pre-Screening test for DCC Operators.
• Thorough knowledge of the Southern Company Distribution Operating Procedures (SDOP) to aid employees in working safely and efficiently in the operation of SOCO's distribution system.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, ability to work effectively under varying levels of stress and pressure, and good interpersonal skills.
• Good analytical/thinking skills to be able to quickly analyze information and respond appropriately.
• Ability to work alone and be self-directed.
• Working knowledge of electrical theory for the purpose of operating SOCO's distribution system.
• Working knowledge of line construction to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable service.
• Working knowledge of the company's Customer Service Organization and processes that affect the distribution electric system and customer accounting.
• Ability to provide direct feedback in a positive manner on the day-to-day operation of the system.
• Understanding of the impact the Distribution System Operator has on the success of other departments, inside and outside of Customer Operations Department.
• Significant commitment as an after-hours resource who will be readily available as required.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and operate the distribution system through the current and future systems provided in Customer Operations. The current systems include, but are not limited to, DSCADA, TCMS (Current OMS System), ARMS III, DistGIS, ARCOS, Weather Services, DMIR, IFACTOR and CSS.
• Write and execute switching orders for routine activities and emergency restoration. This includes coordinating the various switching clearances in compliance with the SDOP and all other procedures pertaining to switching of the Distribution system.
• Direct the service restoration efforts for distribution outages through effective direction of SOCO and contract employees familiar with distribution restoration. This will also include effective switching through automated and manual devices.
• Direct routine work and restoration through ARMS for the Electric Servicemen, Customer Servicemen, Local Town Personnel and other departments/employees that utilize ARMS.
• Communicate outage information and take in the big picture to notify appropriate employees and management, including Distribution Operations, Divisions, and Corporate Communications of restoration progress and needs.
• Ensure daily activities and procedures are completed in a safe, timely, and correct manner. This includes activities and procedures for Switching, TCMS, EMS, ARMS III, Daily Reports, Switch Board, Switching Calendar, and DMIR.
• Ensure all Compliance and Security measures are maintained.
• The incumbent is required to work a rotating shift and report to work outside of normal shift hours as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level