Electric Substations & Controls Supervisor

City of Kinston•Kinston, NC

About The Position

Performs technical and administrative work supervising electric substation operations and related communications equipment in the electrical distribution system. Plans, organizes, and supervises substation operations, maintenance, repair, and upgrades, researching and planning projects to improve system efficiency and effectiveness. Determines work priorities, assesses damage to electrical components, plans reconstruction, and instructs crew members on repair and replacement designs for substation, communications, and electronic components. The role also participates in hiring, trains and evaluates assigned staff, and develops and administers budgets. Work is performed under general supervision and evaluated through periodic conferences, observation of results, and review of records and files. The position involves both indoor and outdoor work, exposure to extreme temperatures, and hazards associated with electrical line work.

Requirements

High school graduation and training in electrical technology, engineering, or a related field, with considerable experience in an electrical utility, preferably including field work at the supervisor level, or 40 hours of supervisory training; an equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable.
Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
Possession of Advanced Substation Repair and Maintenance certification.
Thorough knowledge of electric distribution and substation principles and practices.
Thorough knowledge of equipment and materials used in construction, maintenance, and repair of substations, metering and SCADA systems, and related equipment.
Thorough knowledge of electrical and electronic devices, including circuits, switches, breakers, and wiring.
Thorough knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practices related to construction, operation, and maintenance of electrical substation systems.
Considerable knowledge of supervisory principles and practices, including leadership, motivation, communication, team building, mentoring, performance coaching and evaluation, and training.
Considerable knowledge of applying information technology to departmental work.
Knowledge of City budgeting, purchasing, and personnel policies and procedures.
Working knowledge of personnel laws and regulations related to employment and safety.
Skill in customer service, teamwork, and collaborative conflict resolution.
Ability to perform long- and short-range planning.
Ability to read and interpret technical engineering designs, drawings, and specifications related to electrical distribution work.
Ability to prepare complex records and reports.
Ability to maintain effective working relationships with public officials, employees, contractors, utility companies, management, and the general public.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to perform the physical functions and visual tasks specified in the job description, including climbing, lifting, inspecting plans and reports, using measurement devices, and operating equipment, computers, and motor vehicles.

Nice To Haves

An A.A.S. degree in electrical or electronic engineering technology, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, is preferred.
Field work experience in an electrical utility is preferred.

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, supervise, and participate in monitoring, testing, maintaining, repairing, and upgrading SCADA and substation systems, including setting priorities and determining repair designs and construction of new components.
Coordinate substation installation, repair, and maintenance with consulting engineers and substation component suppliers.
Coordinate expansion, repair, and maintenance of the SCADA system.
Work with management and consulting engineers to develop long-range and capital plans.
Oversee personnel, equipment, and materials; project capital and operating budget needs; evaluate programs and investigate efficiency methods; obtain equipment and project quotes; and acquire equipment, technology, tools, and materials.
Direct safety and training programs for the substation crew and ensure proper safety precautions.
Write files for substation remote terminal units (RTUs) and SCADA programming.
Update substation drawings and maintain accurate data for new developments; oversee entry of testing results and readings and preparation and maintenance of records and reports for management and regulatory compliance.
Review protective relay files and event records to determine proper operation of relays and breakers.
Participate in system troubleshooting and repair planning.
Participate in hiring and provide training, mentoring, performance coaching, and reviews for assigned staff.
Consult with other distribution system staff on voltage and load issues.
Supervise and participate in maintenance of generators and standby and peak-shave switchgear.
Research and plan changes required by federal, state, and safety rules.
Perform related duties as required.