Transmission System Operator

American Electric Power•New Albany, OH

3d•$74,551 - $93,189

About The Position

Under direct supervision and instruction, the Transmission System Operator assists with the efficient operation of the transmission system and coordinates its operation with the AEP Reliability Coordinator (AEP SCC), distribution dispatching centers and authorities, and internal and external transmission control centers and authorities. The role assists with routine and emergency switching and tagging for equipment removal and restoration during maintenance, repair, replacement, and construction; keeps logs of operating conditions; monitors system voltages and transformer, line, and equipment loadings; and works with the AEP SCC to apply corrective action when parameters deviate from equipment ratings or operating limits. The operator also monitors metering and communications facilities and initiates or reports corrective action when malfunctions occur. The position assists with real-time transmission and station distribution equipment operations, prepares basic switching orders, and helps direct emergency switching and restoration actions. It includes observing and assisting with SCADA system operation, monitoring severe weather information, and recording station entry and exit activity. The work follows a twelve-hour uninterrupted rotating shift schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays. The operator may need to work outside normal dispatching center hours, report promptly to the worksite during emergencies, travel, and encounter hazardous situations requiring knowledge and use of safety procedures. The position has a sedentary physical demand level, involving mostly sitting and occasionally lifting or moving up to 10 pounds.

Requirements

Entry-level candidates must have either 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's license is required.
Ability to work under pressure during critical system conditions and manage diverse situations simultaneously.
Ability to analyze information and communicate instructions clearly and concisely.
Ability to work a twelve-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 be able to travel as required and work safely in situations involving potential hazards.
Ability to deal effectively and professionally with coworkers and customers.
Must complete required company training and testing within established time frames.

Nice To Haves

One to two years of experience in substation operation, protective relaying, or distribution dispatching is desired.
Recommended results on the HireVue Dispatcher Worker Virtual Job Tryout assessment.

Responsibilities

Assist in monitoring and regulating transmission system voltage levels and real and reactive power flows in cooperation with AEP SCC directives.
Assist with real-time operation of the AEP transmission system in coordination with AEP SCC and neighboring utilities.
Assist with real-time operation of distribution equipment inside the station fence in coordination with regional distribution dispatch centers.
Prepare basic switching orders, including switching steps and safety tagging, for equipment removal from service for maintenance, repair, or construction, protecting the public, company equipment, company personnel, and contract personnel.
Assist in directing emergency switching operations and plan and direct actions to restore equipment and customers to service quickly, safely, and effectively.
Maintain logs of events and transactions related to operation of facilities and equipment.
Observe and assist with operation of the 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 training and testing within company-established time frames to advance to the next classification in the line of progression or vacate the current classification.