Electric System Operator I, II, III

Lansing Board of Water & LightLansing, MI
$86,900 - $131,700Onsite

About The Position

Carries out normal and emergency Electric T&D system operations under the direction of ESO II, III or IV. Coordinates, regulates, and distributes electricity in generating stations, substations, and overhead electric powerlines. Ensures that proper switching procedures and safety rules are enforced. This position does not have management or supervision responsibilities. Knowledge of electric transmission and distribution systems. Knowledge of electrical disciplines equivalent to those obtained in the following positions will be considered: Electric Substation Inspector (ESI), Bulk Power Controller (BPC), Electrician Journey worker – electric transmission and distribution, Power Plant Control Room Operator. Must have the ability to handle and resolve high pressure situations and make decisions concerning the stable and reliable operation of the BWL system(s). General computer proficiency and knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel programs. Constant attention to monitor, track, and document real-time system activity using various forms of technology. Ability to work 8–12-hour shifts on a rotational basis. Must have excellent verbal / written communication skills. Must have demonstrated management and project management skills. Must have a valid driver’s license with an acceptable record.

Requirements

  • Knowledge of electric transmission and distribution systems.
  • Knowledge of electrical disciplines equivalent to those obtained in the following positions will be considered: Electric Substation Inspector (ESI), Bulk Power Controller (BPC), Electrician Journey worker – electric transmission and distribution, Power Plant Control Room Operator.
  • Must have the ability to handle and resolve high pressure situations and make decisions concerning the stable and reliable operation of the BWL system(s).
  • General computer proficiency and knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel programs.
  • Constant attention to monitor, track, and document real-time system activity using various forms of technology.
  • Ability to work 8–12-hour shifts on a rotational basis.
  • Must have excellent verbal / written communication skills.
  • Must have demonstrated management and project management skills.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with an acceptable record.
  • This position requires knowledge which is normally acquired through the completion of a degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field; or a journey worker certification in the electric transmission and distribution field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • This position requires a minimum of four years of electrical transmission and distribution experience in the electric utility industry or equivalent knowledge.
  • Minimum 1 year as BWL ESO I or upon completion of internal BESOC training modules and tests.
  • NERC certification as Reliability Coordinator preferred, minimum as Transmission Operator.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience as BWL ESO II, or 5 years outside BWL as NERC certified Transmission Operator or Reliability Coordinator + one year as ESO II.
  • Will consider depth and breadth of experience.

Nice To Haves

  • NERC certification as Reliability Coordinator preferred

Responsibilities

  • Write, check, perform and properly document normal and emergency distribution switching and clearance operations and procedures, safely and according to set procedures.
  • Constantly monitor, communicate, and dispatch T&D system field personnel via the BWL radio and other communication systems.
  • Provide supervision of the facility after normal business hours, including the building and grounds check-down, security verification, and building emergencies and evacuations.
  • Assists in the coordination of system restoration in emergency and storm conditions.
  • Generates, maintains, monitors, and tracks applicable records and reports.
  • Clearly communicates and coordinates with other personnel internal/external and/or customers to complete work assignments.
  • Respond to and dispatch on-call personnel for after-hours emergency calls for all BWL business units, and outside entities as required.
  • Reads and interprets circuit diagrams.
  • Must utilize and become proficient in the use of BESOC’s real-time control systems (i.e. Energy Management System (EMS), Outage Management System (OMS), etc.), and BWL computer applications (i.e. Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • Tracks the progress of all sketches issued that involve transmission and distribution system and makes updates to operations primary prints as needed under the direction of ESO II, III or IV.
  • Performs other related duties as required or necessitated by job responsibilities or as assigned by supervisor.
  • Required to follow BWL Safety Manual and wear required personal protective equipment as needed.
  • Shall attend training for safety awareness or skills improvement as required by supervisor, BWL or governmental agency such as MIOSHA, NERC, and Reliability First.
  • Participation in the continuous improvement of the Asset Management System and Work Management processes.
  • Expected to comply with all BWL policies and work rules.
  • Reliable and predictable attendance.
  • Other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Benefits

  • Competitive wages
  • Employee development
  • Opportunity for professional growth
  • Robust time off benefits including vacation, free choice, sick leave, parental leave and 11 paid holidays.
  • Comprehensive benefits package offered including medical, prescription, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, employee assistance program.
  • Voluntary benefits including vision, supplemental and dependent life insurance, flexible spending, AFLAC options, LifeLock anti-theft, long term care, tuition reimbursement, and BWL's Home Purchase Plan – Forgivable $5,000 loan for purchase of a home in Lansing.
  • Retirement programs including 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan (DC) (100% company paid up to 9.5 % of base salary for BU positions and up to 13% of base salary for NBU positions), 457 Deferred Compensation matches up to $2,500 per year.
  • Post retirement benefits offered at the respective level of coverage, co-pays and health care premium, at the same level as active employees.
  • Two fitness centers located on site open 24/7
  • Work life balance program
  • Employee assistance program
  • Free parking
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service