Assoc Distribution Operator​/Distribution Operator

Job Description

This is a multi-level posting, and will be filled at the appropriate level based on experience and education.

Under direction of a distribution operator or shift supervisor, the Mid American Energy Company associate distribution operator monitors and operates the 15 kV electric power system based on Mid American Energy Company operating standards and guidelines. The associate distribution operator provides support to the distribution operator and shift supervisor in the area of callouts, dispatching and other areas as directed. This position is intended to be a training position until the incumbent is fully qualified to operate the system independently as a distribution operator.

After 8-12 months as an associate distribution operator, the employee's performance will be reviewed to see if he/she meets the minimum qualifications and performance standards for becoming a distribution operator. The associate distribution operator will be required to achieve proficiency and move to the distribution operator position within 12 months of starting training. Failure to meet these performance standards within 12 months will result in a six-month remedial period.

At the end of the remedial period, the associate distribution operator will be evaluated for possible advancement to the distribution operator position. Proficiency will be determined by testing and observation.

The distribution operator monitors distribution supervisory control and data acquisition alarms (SCADA), Distribution Management Systems (DMS), Feeder Automation, Electric Outage Management System (EOMS) and Computer Aided Dispatch system (CAD) to determine electrical system conditions and exercises independent judgment in the operation of the 15 kV electric power system based on Mid American Energy Company operating standards and guidelines. This position ensures safe, reliable and efficient operation of the distribution system beginning outside the substation fence and ending at the electric meter of the retail customer.

This position is also responsible for providing training and direction to associate distribution operators.

Associate Distribution Operator:

• Complete training to become fully qualified as a distribution operator within 12 months of starting the training program. (60-65%)
• Under direction, conduct real-time actions that ensure safe, reliable and economic operation of the 15 kV electrical system, beginning at the substation breaker and ending at the electric meter of the retail customer, by monitoring and responding to system disturbances involving distribution equipment and taking appropriate steps to restore service to customers and portions of the electrical system affected by the disturbance.
  
  (20-25%)
• Under direction direct emergency switching on the 15 kV electrical system. Restore service as safely and quickly as possible. Work closely with transmission operators to ensure that clear and open communication is present between both transmission and distribution electrical systems whenever an incident would occur or actions need to be taken. (5-10%)
• Operate the 15 kV distribution system according to good utility practice criteria and Mid American Energy Company operating standards and guidelines. (5-10%)
• Perform additional responsibilities as requested or assigned. (5-10%)
• Provide technical input to assist in development of project planning. (0-5%)
• Demonstration of knowledge and understanding of human performance improvement techniques. Evaluate present practices and implement processes, concepts, training and tools to prevent, detect and correct human errors that may adversely impact the safe, reliable operation of the electric transmission and distribution system.

Distribution Operator:

• Conduct real-time actions that ensure safe, reliable and efficient operation of the 15 kV electrical system, beginning at the substation breaker and ending at the electric meter of the retail customer, by monitoring and responding to system disturbances involving distribution equipment and taking appropriate steps to restore service to customers and portions…