Eng Del System Operator Assc

American Electric Power•New Albany, OH

4d•$74,551 - $93,189

About The Position

Under direct supervision and instruction, the Associate System Operator assists with efficient transmission-system operation and coordination with AEP’s Reliability Coordinator (AEP SCC), distribution dispatch centers and authorities, and internal and external transmission control centers and authorities. The role assists with routine and emergency switching and tagging, including arranging, approving, and directing equipment removal and restoration with limited instruction. It also involves logging operating conditions; monitoring system voltages and transformer, line, and equipment loadings; applying corrective action with the AEP SCC when parameters deviate from equipment ratings or operating limits; and monitoring metering and communication facilities for malfunctions. The operator assists with monitoring grid-health alarms and applications, supporting stakeholders with data-driven next steps, and monitoring real-time compliance related to PRC002, PRC004, and TPL007. The position supports real-time transmission and distribution equipment operation, prepares basic switching orders, maintains event and transaction logs, and observes and assists with SCADA operation. The work is performed on a 12-hour uninterrupted rotating shift schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays. Work outside normal dispatching-center hours may be required, and the role may involve travel and exposure to hazardous situations.

Requirements

Entry-level candidates must have a two-year technical degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or a related field, or a high school education and two years of experience in a position demonstrating the ability to operate a power system.
A valid state driver license is required.
Must pass the System Operator/Power Dispatching (SO/PD) test to qualify.
Ability to work under pressure during critical system conditions and handle diverse situations simultaneously.
Ability to analyze information and communicate instructions clearly and concisely.
Ability to work a 12-hour uninterrupted rotating shift schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays.
May be required to work outside normal dispatching-center hours and must be able to report promptly to the worksite during emergency events.
Must have the ability to travel as required and to work safely in situations involving potential hazards, using appropriate safety procedures.
Ability to deal effectively and professionally with coworkers and customers.
Must complete required training and testing within company-established time frames.

Nice To Haves

One to two years of experience in substation operation, protective relaying, or distribution dispatching is desired.

Responsibilities

Assist the Monitoring Analysis Response Center with data-driven next-step decisions regarding asset health alarms and communicate guidance to downstream stakeholders.
Monitor system-health alarms and provide guidance to downstream stakeholders.
Monitor real-time compliance related to PRC002, PRC004, and TPL007 for supporting stakeholders.
Monitor real-time fire-monitoring applications and provide downstream stakeholders with guidance on next steps.
Monitor other advanced applications and notify stakeholders when grid-monitoring alarm thresholds are reached.
Assist in monitoring and regulating transmission-system voltage levels and real and reactive power flows at all transmission voltage levels, in cooperation with AEP SCC directives.
Assist in real-time operation of the AEP transmission system in coordination with the AEP SCC and neighboring utilities.
Assist in real-time operation of distribution equipment inside station fences in coordination with regional distribution dispatch centers.
Prepare basic switching orders and safety-tagging steps for removing equipment from service for maintenance, repair, or construction, supporting the safety of the public, company equipment and personnel, and contract personnel.
Assist in directing switching operations during emergencies and plan and direct actions to restore equipment and customers to service quickly and safely.
Maintain logs of events and transactions related to facility and equipment operation.
Observe and assist in operating the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system and associated functions.
Monitor metering and communications facilities and report malfunctions to appropriate personnel for corrective action.
Monitor the weather information system for severe weather and notify appropriate personnel.
Acknowledge and enter records of station entry and exit activity.
Complete required company training and testing within established time frames to advance to the next higher classification in the line of progression or vacate the current classification.