Journeyman Power Supply Operator

Pend Oreille Public Utility District•Ione, WA

About The Position

The purpose of this journeyman level position is to safely perform operational duties related to District powerhouse, dam, pumping and waterway equipment, enabling the highest possible level of generation production, equipment reliability/performance, and personnel safety. The incumbent will perform such duties as they relate to the following equipment: turbines, governors, generators, pumps, motors, heavy and light mobile equipment, air compressors, HVAC equipment, dam structural equipment (including spillway gates, hoists and cranes). The position incumbent will work with other Plant and District personnel. The incumbent will also work independently to complete specifics tasks and other work assignments. The incumbent will be required to have extensive experience in the operation of production/generation equipment and systems. The position is governed at all times by current work practices and procedures as established and modified by the District, and assumes responsibility for completion of tasks in a manner that will ensure the safety of both the incumbent and others.

Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required
Vocational/apprenticeship training resulting in journeyman level operator skills that allow the incumbent to fully perform the responsibilities, essential duties and authorities described above.
Knowledge of and ability to correctly use appropriate safety practices in a utility setting, including (but not limited to): Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO), confined space entry, first aid/cardio pulmonary resuscitation, including Automated External Defibrillator (AED), etc.
Knowledge of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and all applicable Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) and Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA) regulations.
Ability to apply logical thinking to diagnose and solve practical problems without supervision, and to comprehend and effectively carry out instructions.
Ability to mathematically add, subtract, multiply, and divide; work with decimals and fractions; and understand and calculate measurements.
Ability to read, analyze and comprehend relevant instruction manuals, construction drawings, electrical diagrams, blueprints, schematics, and maps in connection with the essential duties of the position.
Ability to properly prepare required forms and reports.
Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing.
Ability to receive guidance and supervision, follow work rules, safety practices, work procedures, meet punctuality and attendance standards, and complete assignments in an appropriate time period.
All performance standards must be completed in a competent manner.
Demonstrated eye and upper limb coordination is required to operate switches and controls.
Ability to operate large valves, apply servolocks, lift deck hatches and other jobs requiring in excess of 50 pounds of pulling or turning force.
Ability to operate a snowmobile and other motorized equipment to access remote sites.
Ability to operate and control vehicles in off-road and inclement weather conditions in order to access remote sites and perform duties.
Ability to engage in prolonged and varied periods of sitting, standing, walking and climbing ladders and stairs.
Ability to work, walk and drive effectively under adverse climate conditions, including hot/cold temperatures, rain, snow, humidity, etc.
Ability to work safely and comfortable at heights and underground facilities. Must also be able to work near, on and over bodies of water (e.g. lakes, rivers, spillways, etc.)
Ability to traverse over rough, uneven terrain. Occasional use of snowshoes, snow machines and other equipment may be necessary to reach remote, rural locations.
Ability to wear, when required, appropriate company provided clothing and breathing apparatus to work in confined spaces.
Ability to operate controls requiring grasping and fine manipulation.
Ability to perform under stress when confronted with emergency, critical, unusual or dangerous conditions or in situations when sustained attention and focus is critical to the safe and effective performance of the job.
Corrected vision must be sufficient to meet the essential functions of this position, including correct differentiation of colors.

Responsibilities

Starts, stops, synchronizes and adjusts voltage, load and power factor of District turbine/generator units and auxiliary equipment.
Operates and monitors plant electrical systems.
Maintains specified dam flows and water levels.
Reads and records instrument data. Accurately computes water flows. Prepares operating reports and maintains station records.
Operates and controls low, medium, and high voltage switchgear. This may require the use of hot sticks, insulated gloves, and other safety equipment as required by industry practice and regulation WAC 296-45. Operates and switches distribution voltage switchgear under the direction of dispatch personnel.
Operates heavy lifting equipment, including operation of 100 ton gantry crane for the lifting and adjustment of spillway gates at Box Canyon Dam.
Performs structural and equipment inspections of Box Canyon Dam, power plant and switch yard in order to detect failure or impending failure of structures or equipment. Detection of any abnormality requires the taking of remedial action where possible and proper recording and reporting to responsible individuals.
Works with maintenance personnel to establish clearance requirements. Certifies and issues clearances and receives clearance releases for authorized work on equipment within realm of responsibility. Performs required switching and tagging to safely secure equipment for maintenance.
Keeps a clear, concise and accurate log of activities during assigned shift to insure that matters of importance are properly conveyed to operators on subsequent shifts.
Maintains security of facilities and equipment through observation, use of available surveillance equipment and the proper locking of entry points.
Exercises tact, courtesy and diplomacy when interacting with the public in order to affect and maintain a good public image for the District at all times.
Requires thorough understanding of Production Lockout Tagout (LOTO) program and distribution clearance program. Will be required to administer LOTO program for Production facilities to safely remove equipment from service for maintenance purposes. Will also be required to operate and clear distribution equipment for the safe switching of equipment for line operations.
Operates radio, computer and telephone equipment for the purpose of receiving, sending or relaying information pertinent to maintaining effective operational and maintenance communications within the District.
When serving as relief operator, will fill vacated shifts created by other operators personal leave. Will conduct inspections and/or review operations at reservoirs, pumping plants, generating stations, distribution substations and at other District river sites and (or specific equipment) as directed. When so assigned, will maintain communications with the shift operator at Box Canyon keeping him/her informed of itinerary and change of status of equipment, etc. When assigned the Calispell Power Plant, will start/stop, synchronize, adjust voltage, change jets, open or close needle valves, gate valves, etc., as necessary to assure maximum use of available water from Power Lake. Will clean equipment and powerhouse, wiping up excess oil, etc. Will add oil as necessary and grease appropriate fittings. Will check Power Lake water level and record it as well as other appropriate data in station log and appropriate record form.
Trains or assists in the training of apprentice operators by providing guidance and instruction in all aspects of the operator program.
Responsible for maintaining positive, cooperative and professional relationships with all District personnel.
Assists in the preparation of written standard operating procedures.
Performs alone during many shifts and assignments. Must act autonomously, and make decisions in accordance with District policies and procedures. During many working hours, is solely responsible for the operation of District assets, including Box Canyon Dam.
Responsible for supervisions of apprentice operators when working on the same shift.
Under the requirements of WAC 45, responsible for the safety of personnel working under clearances issued by journey hydro operator.
May perform other duties for which the employee is qualified and can be performed safely (alone or under the direct supervision of a qualified and trained individual).