Power System Operator Trainee

OPEN COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT

Open to all qualified candidates

Tentative examination dates for this recruitment:
Week of 03/30/26 - Blind supplemental scoring
Week of 04/13/26 - Oral interview

Dates may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Candidates who pass each phase of the recruitment process will be notified of the official examination dates.

Under supervision, to perform station switching operations on an assigned shift, check operational readiness of station equipment, and maintain station equipment; and perform related work as required.

Makes checks of electric substations throughout the City; checks oil equipment levels, oil temperature, load and voltage conditions, voltage regulator tap positions, ; checks for oil leaks and other equipment anomalies; takes pressure readings of gas bottles; s may perform minor equipment maintenance; switches energized equipment, including circuit breakers, switches, and disconnects in preparation for work to be performed by various maintenance crews;

may perform emergency switching when immediate action is indicated; reports substation conditions to Power System Operator (PSO) and restores station to workable operation as directed by the PSO; ensures switching instructions are complete and accurate by reviewing, editing, and writing switching instructions; drives on City business.

Employment Standards:

Knowledge of procedures, methods, and equipment used in the inspection and operation of a power substation; functions, capacities, and general conditions of performance of electrical equipment found in substations including switching equipment and other devices; typical municipal electric sub-transmission and distribution systems; fundamentals of electricity as related to power systems; spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Skill in operating modern computers and related software.

Ability to follow instructions indicating how to safely switch circuits and take equipment in and out of operation while maintaining continuous electrical service; think and act quickly and calmly while working under pressure; fully understand the effects of switching on the Burbank Water and Power (BWP) electric sub-transmission and distribution system; perform minor maintenance; read and understand single line schematics; review and edit existing switching procedures;

create new switching procedures; maintain accurate records and reports; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public..

Special Conditions & Requirements: Positions allocated to this classification are in a training capacity for PSO positions. Maximum time for completion of the training program is 18 months. Power System Operator Trainee may be terminated from employment at any time during the training period. Successful completion of the training program will qualify an individual to take the PSO examination. After the 18-month training period, the Power System Operator Trainee becomes Civil Service non-exempt, except they may be terminated if they do not take and pass the PSO examination prior to the end of the 18-month training period, or when the position becomes vacant.

Education & Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent.

Special Conditions & Requirements:
Employees in this classification will be required to comply with specified auditory acuity and color vision standards as set by the department throughout the course of employment. COLOR VISION:
Keen color perception.

License & Certificates:A valid California Class “C” driver’s license or equivalent is required at time of appointment; and a valid North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) certification as a NERC Certified System Operator within 6 months of appointment. All required licenses and certificates must be maintained throughout employment in this classification.

None.