Distribution Operator/Dispatcher

Summary

The purpose of this position is to manage field activities, monitor the electric distribution control system, while performing a variety of control room duties that involve electric distribution. This position will work under the direction of a NERC certified Transmission Operator to dispatch emergency and routine distribution service calls, such as electric outages, collections, customer service meter orders, as they relate to field activities. This position may require rotating shifts and working weekends and holidays.

Essential Functions

• Receives and dispatches routine service calls for electric distribution.
• Communicate with customers and field crews relating to electric distribution work flows.
• Maintains service order records and related files.
• Performs data entry and verification for distribution system records in multiple computer operating systems.
• Proficient in three-way communication with use of a radio during communication with field crews;
• Analyze reports to verify accuracy and efficiency of work;
• Make fast and accurate decisions which effects infrastructure, utility services and citizens' safety;
• During distribution large outages, this position will work at the direction of the NERC Transmission Operator for outage support.
• Ability to work rotating shifts if deemed necessary, including days, nights, weekends and holidays. Also requires working various shift schedules and being available (rotating on call 24X7) for additional duty or outage support;
• Maintain working knowledge of desk manuals, policies and procedures.
• Relay information to workers assigned to the area in which problem occurs, and utility management concerning system disturbances;
• Monitor distribution system for disturbances to minimize overlap between outage and non-outage reports.
• Monitor weather and notifies crews of approaching storms;
• Perform related duties as directed.

Qualifications

Completion of a high school diploma or the equivalent with an additional one to three years of dispatch, clerical, or relevant work experience which demonstrates the ability to exercise judgment; or any combination of relevant education and experience which provides the following:

Physical Exam Required

This position requires, in addition to any requirements of Human Resources (HR), and prior to a final job offer, per NERC CIP-004, the completion of a seven year criminal background check, identity verification (e.g. Social Security number verification), and the passing of a Personnel Risk Assessment (PRA). Continued employment in this position will require the NERC CIP-004 requirements to be satisfactorily completed every seven years from date of employment, and/or last PRA.

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Operational knowledge of Distribution systems.
• Customer service technique and basic office procedures;
• Modern utility/distribution practices;
• Utility processes and procedures.
• Electrical Safety Practices

• Learn the local distribution system circuit schematics.
• Communicate effectively in a clear and concise manner with others in a courteous manner, including internal or external customers and the general public;
• Ability to work well under stressful conditions and responds to system disturbances with accurate decisions;
• Ability to prioritize trouble related calls and communicates with customers effectively;
• Ability to demonstrate skills in operating computer equipment by reading and analyzing data regarding system conditions;
• Must be able to read and understand drawings and maps;
• Operate a variety of office equipment such as computer, radio system, and dispatching software;
• Keep accurate records and prepare accurate and meaningful reports and statements;

• Frequently stand and walk;
• Frequently flex upper truck forward;
• Frequently lift up to 10 pounds;
• Frequently push and pull objects;
• Frequently flex upper trunk forward, partial flexing o knees;
• Frequently reach above, at or below shoulder height;
• Continuously talk, see and hear.