Electric System Operator I, II, III

Lansing Board of Water & Light•Lansing, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Electric System Operator carries out normal and emergency electric transmission and distribution (T&D) system operations. The role coordinates, regulates, and distributes electricity in generating stations, substations, and overhead power lines while ensuring that switching procedures and safety rules are followed. The position operates in a control-room environment and requires monitoring real-time system activity, communicating with field personnel, documenting system operations, and supporting restoration during emergencies and storms. The posting includes three levels. ESO I performs operations under the direction of ESO II, III, or IV. ESO II and ESO III direct normal and emergency T&D operations and have full operational authority to take real-time actions needed to ensure reliable operation of BWL’s portion of the Bulk Electric System under NERC and Reliability First operating standards, including firm load shedding. The ESO II and III authority does not require approval or involvement of higher-level personnel. The role requires rotational 8–12-hour shifts and involves frequent communication, computer use, and sustained attention in a temperature-controlled control-room office environment. It also includes after-hours facility supervision and emergency-call dispatch. Employees must follow BWL policies, safety requirements, and applicable training obligations.

Requirements

Knowledge of electric transmission and distribution systems.
Knowledge of electrical disciplines comparable to experience as an Electric Substation Inspector, Bulk Power Controller, electric T&D journey worker, or Power Plant Control Room Operator.
Ability to handle and resolve high-pressure situations and make decisions affecting stable and reliable BWL system operations.
General computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.
Ability to monitor, track, and document real-time system activity using various technologies.
Ability to work rotational 8–12-hour shifts.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated management and project management skills.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable record.
ESO I: Knowledge normally acquired through a degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, a journey worker certification in electric T&D, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
ESO I: Minimum four years of electric utility T&D experience or equivalent knowledge.
ESO II: Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, journey worker certification in electric T&D, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
ESO II: Minimum one year as BWL ESO I, or completion of internal BESOC training modules and tests.
ESO III: Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, journey worker certification in electric T&D, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
ESO III: Minimum three years as BWL ESO II, or five years outside BWL as a NERC-certified Transmission Operator or Reliability Coordinator plus one year as ESO II; depth and breadth of experience will be considered.
Ability to remain in a sit/stand position for most of the workday and move about within the Control Room.
Ability to communicate frequently with other departments and employees, verbally and in writing.
Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds and position the body to reach below knee level or above the head; occasional use of stairs.
Ability to adjust focus, particularly when concentrating on a computer screen.

Nice To Haves

ESO II: NERC certification as a Reliability Coordinator is preferred; minimum certification as a Transmission Operator is required.

Responsibilities

Write, check, perform, and document normal and emergency distribution switching and clearance operations according to established procedures.
Monitor, communicate with, and dispatch T&D field personnel using the BWL radio and other communications systems.
Supervise the facility after normal business hours, including building and grounds check-downs, security verification, and building emergencies or evacuations.
Assist with coordinating system restoration during emergencies and storms.
Generate, maintain, monitor, and track applicable records and reports.
Communicate and coordinate with internal and external personnel and customers to complete assignments.
Respond to and dispatch on-call personnel for after-hours emergency calls for BWL business units and outside entities as required.
Read and interpret circuit diagrams.
Use BESOC real-time control systems, including EMS and OMS, and BWL computer applications such as Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Track sketches involving the transmission and distribution system and update operations primary prints as needed under the direction of ESO II, III, or IV.
Follow the BWL Safety Manual, use required personal protective equipment as needed, and attend required safety or skills training.
Participate in continuous improvement of the Asset Management System and Work Management processes.
Comply with BWL policies and work rules and maintain reliable, predictable attendance.
Perform other related duties as required or assigned.
For ESO II and ESO III, direct normal and emergency Electric T&D system operations and take authorized real-time actions to maintain stable and reliable operation of BWL’s portion of the Bulk Electric System, including firm load shedding when needed.

Benefits

Competitive wages and employee development and professional growth opportunities.
Vacation, free choice, and sick leave; parental leave; and 11 paid holidays.
Medical, prescription, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, and employee assistance program coverage.
Voluntary vision, supplemental and dependent life insurance, flexible spending, AFLAC options, LifeLock anti-theft, and long-term care benefits.
Tuition reimbursement.
BWL Home Purchase Plan: forgivable $5,000 loan for purchase of a home in Lansing.
401(a) Defined Contribution Plan, with company contributions up to 9.5% of base salary for BU positions and up to 13% for NBU positions.
457 Deferred Compensation matching up to $2,500 per year.
Post-retirement benefits at the respective level of coverage, co-pays, and health care premium as active employees.
Two on-site fitness centers open 24/7.
Work-life balance program and free parking.