Apprentice System Operator (Night Shift Dispatcher) - Arkansas Valley Electric CO-OP

PURPOSE:

Monitor Arkansas Valley Electric Cooperative Corporation's power distribution grid. Provide for an efficient and effective communications link within the Cooperative Control Center network. Organize and coordinate with clear and effective communication through departmental telephone and radio interactions for member and employee contacts.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Within the limits of approved board policies, operating guides and procedures, approved work plans and budgets, and specific delegation from the Control Center Coordinator; the System Operator assumes the responsibility and has commensurate authority for the following activities, recognizing the continuing responsibility of this position for developing and maintaining a favorable Cooperative image consistent with the Cooperative Strategic Goals:

• As an Apprentice System Operator:
• Ensure that communications (internal and external) are clear and concise.

Safety of the employees and public are of primary consideration.

• Monitors the "Outage Management System" to ensure power distribution system reliability.
• Monitors and verifies proper performance of other Control Center Systems.
• Dispatches crew(s) for outages. Will work with the Control Center Coordinator during contingencies to ensure the appropriate, qualified employees are notified. (This position requires dispatching of personnel for outages from all Cooperative districts after normal business hours.)
• Relays pertinent information about the power distribution system to the appropriate party.
• Coordinates the contact of appropriate personnel to handle any situation.
• Advises proper supervisor of any transmission or special equipment problems, as indicated by reports or monitoring equipment.
• Communicate with membership in a courteous and informed manner.
• Contact proper authorities when necessary.
• Operates cooperative radio within the cooperative and departmental guidelines. Adhere to all FCC regulations for broadcast communications.
• Provide for safe entrance and exit of all personnel to Cooperative headquarters facilities after normal business hours.
• Admits public into office for meetings and admits employees into office and storage yard, after office hours; maintains log on those admitted after office hours.
• Conduct security checks of facilities after normal business hours.
• Maintains radio security checks between main headquarters and district offices.

In addition to these responsibilities, the System Operator may be assigned to perform other duties.

After completion of Distribution Control Center Operations Level 1 class certification and evaluation by the Control Center Coordinator, an Apprentice System Operator will be eligible to become a Level 1 System Operator.

• As a Level 1 System Operator (All responsibilities of an Apprentice System Operator in addition to):
• Monitors SCADA system and records/makes status changes of equipment.
• Maintains awareness of weather conditions and takes necessary precautions to manage weather impact on power distribution system.

In addition to these responsibilities, the System Operator may be assigned to perform other duties.

After completion of Distribution Control Operations Level 2 class certification and evaluation by the Control Center Coordinator, a Level 1 System Operator will be eligible to become a Level 2 System Operator.

• As a Level 2 System Operator (All responsibilities of a Level 1 System Operator in addition to):
• Utilizes fault predictions to aid in outage restorations.
• Aids and records switching procedures.

In addition to these responsibilities, the System Operator may be assigned to perform other duties.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Skills:

1. Requires excellent oral and written communication skills.
2. Sound computer skills (advanced skills helpful)
3. Adaptability to rapidly changing situations.
4. Complex problem solver.

Abilities:

1. Capable of working with a minimum of supervision.
2. Ability to operate a variety of PC systems and software applications.
3. Ability to think on your feet in real-time situations that require immediate resolution.
4. Ability to effectively communicate with the public, membership, and other employees in person, over the telephone, and radio.

POSITION LEVEL:

These positions report to the Control Center Coordinator and are responsible for Control Center procedures and practices, in assigned areas of responsibility.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

This job requires reading, writing, and mathematics; therefore, a high school diploma or the equivalent is preferred, but not required.

Two years of related experience in a related classification; being knowledgeable of the transmission and distribution systems and switching procedures.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Normal working hours will be scheduled by the department supervisor. This position is required to work scheduled shifts on weekends and holidays to staff the office on a twenty-four hour basis. Overtime is required during peak workloads and system contingencies.