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Systems Operator I

Black Hills Corporation

Systems Operator I

Rapid City, SD
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Systems Operator I Job ID : 31771 Category : Operations Location : Rapid City, SD Description : Job Specifications This important role will independently operate BHCs distribution electrical facilities systems professionally, efficiently, and in accordance with applicable procedures and reliability criteria. Successfully complete all phases of Black Hills Corporations System Operator Training Program and pass the NERC System Operator Certification Exam. Demonstrate ability to monitor and safely direct the operation of Black Hills Corporations (BHC) transmission system. LOCATION: Rapid City, SD * Relocation assistance is available for this position! Package is based on distance/complexity of the move, and individual circumstances. Contents of our relocation program are subject to change and may vary based on position. SALARY GRADE: $60,400 - $78,490 (Base salary is determined by the knowledge, skills and abilities of the applicant.) CLOSING DATE: This position will close on January 16, 2019. REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: Systems Operator Supervisor ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: * With guidance demonstrate proficiency to perform the following duties: * Implement real-time actions to ensure the safe and reliable operation of BHCs distribution system. * In coordination with the Outage Coordinator, prepare for preplanned switching and/or restoration. * Perform planned switching simulations to support writing and pre-execution review of switching steps. * Ensure BHC electric system reliability, security, and safety by writing and implementing accurate switching and clearance orders. * Provide and coordinate supervision of switching. * Prepare, check, and direct scheduled and emergency switching and subsequent load restoration activities. * Monitor power system equipment, ensuring proper operation within capability of equipment. Initiate corrective action as necessary to achieve or maintain these limitations. Take immediate remedial action to safeguard public safety and prevent overload or damage to power system equipment. * Maintain strict compliance with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), and Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) standards and operating policies for system reliability and performance criteria after obtaining NERC Certification. * Monitor and maintain voice and data communication systems. * Learn and demonstrate proficiency in utilizing key information technology systems such as SCADA, OMS and other tools to monitor, perform analysis and control the electric power system. * Use SCADA computer control system for gathering system data and operating stations by remote control. * Maintain proper loading and voltage levels on the distribution system. Initiate actions to achieve optimum system voltage and loading levels. * Ensure that operational and electronic mapping tools are accurate and reflect current and correct real-time state of the distribution systems. * Maintain a complete and accurate record of all communications and operator actions during the shift. Document system failures, misoperations, disturbances and unusual conditions in the daily log. * Conduct communications with local, neighboring and regional operations personnel. * Report unusual operational and equipment troubles. Request emergency line patrols and inspection of faulty power equipment as required. * Ensure that appropriate company personnel are notified of any actions taken, or problems that have occurred, in their areas. * Promote safety through training, inspections, meetings, and safety contact reports. Exhibit an awareness and concern for safety. Understand, observe and demonstrate proficiency in the application and implementation of safety rules, practices and safe work behaviors. Promptly correct any conditions and/or unsafe behaviors that may lead to accidents. * Complete all system operator training plan requirements and coursework within 18 months. ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Provide support to the Generation Dispatch and Power Marketing personnel with respect to SCADA and interconnection metering. * Initiate preliminary investigation of system disturbances and complete disturbance reports. * Support Generation Dispatch and Power Marketing as a backup resource for BHC Rocky Mountain Reserve Group reserve activation actions. WORKING RELATIONSHIPS: * Maintain effective communication and working relationships with and have authority to direct relay technicians, substation crew members, linemen, servicemen, construction crew members, communications technicians, plant operators, and all other persons involved with work on the BHC operated transmission system. * Maintain positive working relationships with peer utilities. EXPERIENCE: * One year relevant experience required. * Experience in electric utility operations preferred. * Experience with SCADA and EMS systems a plus. EDUCATION: * High school diploma or equivalent required. * Degree or coursework in engineering, power line construction, power plant, electrical transmission systems or related field preferred. KNOWLEDGE: * Knowledge of electric generation, electric transmission and/or electric distribution. * General knowledge of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, basic principles of physics, including electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC theory, and the fundamentals of power flow. * Knowledge and understanding of high voltage electrical utility operations and equipment. * Knowledge of NERC and WECC regional procedures, government regulations, contractual agreements, operating policies and procedures, and equipment specifications. SKILLS/ABILITY/OTHER CHARACTERISTICS: * Attention to safety. * Ability to exercise good judgment and make sound decisions. * Excellent verbal and written communication skills. * Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and web-based applications. * Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail, accuracy, and timeliness. * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. * Ability to cope with and respond to stressful conditions. CERTIFICATIONS/CREDENTIALS: * Valid NERC System Operator Certification or ability to obtain NERC Certification within 18 months. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: * Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts. * Ability to participate in an after-hours on call rotation. * Ability to use fluent English language and writing on-the-job. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * You must be able to perform the requirements of this position, with or without a reasonable accommodation. * Ability to physically respond to the Reliability Center within 60 minutes of contact when needed for emergency assistance. ________________________________________ About our Company: We are a growth-oriented, vertically integrated energy company that is devoted to our communities. We have a mission to improve life with energy and a vision to be the energy partner of choice. Our diverse culture sparks unique perspectives, opening doors to new ideas and possibilities. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, we have over 2800 employees and serve 1.2 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Arkansas). Our non-regulated businesses generate wholesale electricity and produce natural gas, oil and coal. Enjoy our Comprehensive Benefits Package: annual incentive program, 401(k) (6% company match and up to 9% company retirement contribution), paid time off, paid holidays and annual floating holidays, company paid short term and long term disability, paid maternity and paternity benefits, tuition reimbursement and competitive medical, dental and vision insurance. The information contained in this position description describes the general nature and level of work being performed in this job. This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. The incumbent is responsible for performing all duties in a safe and efficient manner in compliance with safe work procedures and safety regulations. This job description is not intended to constitute an offer or contract of employment. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. We are an EEO Employer

  • Industry
    Utilities