Distribution System Operator

Job Summary

The Distribution System Operations (DSO) Specialist assists in the day‑to‑day electric distribution operations activities for the CenterPoint Indiana Distribution System Control Center. Supports real‑time system operations and emergency restoration activities for the electric distribution system. Develops switching schedules for planned work clearances in addition to emergency switching orders to isolate faults while minimizing customer interruptions.

• Coordinates safe, reliable operation and maintenance of the electric distribution system
• Efficiently and effectively dispatches trouble orders daily across multiple areas.
• Restores electric service in a safe and timely manner.
• Coordinates outage restoration activities with Electric Field Operations and Transmission System Operations.
• Writes safe and orderly switching schedules.
• Executes switching schedules by communicating to Electric Field Operations each task to be performed. Monitor execution of switching schedules.
• Maintains distribution system real‑time situational awareness through the use of SCADA.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field of study preferred, or relevant job‑related experience for non‑degree candidates

• 2 years of relevant work experience required
• Able to make complex operational decisions drawing on experience and a minimum of varied input about system conditions.
• Able to remain calm in emergencies and give instructions to others.
• Able to perform the mathematics required to support decision‑making.
• Able to rely on, and act on, one’s own assessment of system conditions.
• Able to collaborate with others in normal and emergency operations towards achieving the best possible outcomes for CenterPoint Energy as a whole.
• Able to influence others toward action from a particular point of view. Able to demonstrate the company’s core values integrity, accountability, initiative, and respect.

• Able to communicate orally in a clear manner.
• Able to hear oral communication, either in person or on equipment such as telephone, mobile phone or radio.
• Able to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or reach repeatedly, daily.
• Able to distinguish between colors.
• Able to demonstrate the dexterity to operate a personal computer, either desktop or laptop, and common office equipment such as telephone, photocopier, fax machine, calculator, laptop, mobile phone, etc.

• Able to work a rotating shift schedule.
• Able to work in a fast‑paced environment with high daily pressure to meet deadlines.
• Able to provide on‑call support 24 hours on occasion.
• Able to perform work indoors in an office environment and outdoors as needed.
• Able to respond to emergency calls and/or callouts and return to work while off duty.
• Able to work a varied schedule to complete projects and meet deadlines in response to changing demands.
• Able to travel to attend or conduct training, visit facilities and/or attend regulatory hearings, industry, or professional association conferences and/or other meetings (with customers, vendors, contractors, communities, etc.) and stay overnight as required.
• Able to support Emergency Operating Plan. Will be required to remain in the service area during emergency events and assume responsibilities assigned by the company to support restoration efforts.

• Competitive pay
• Paid training
• Benefits eligibility begins on your first day
• Flexible work schedule, paid holidays and paid time off
• Access to discounts at fitness clubs and an on‑site wellness center at our headquarters in Houston
• Professional growth and development programs including tuition reimbursement
• 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match dollar‑for‑dollar up to 6% and a company contribution of 3% regardless of your contribution

We want you to know:
Being part of the CenterPoint Energy team is more than a career alone. It’s an opportunity to make a positive impact. You will be an integral part of enabling everyday life and the pursuit of possibilities for the customers we serve and the communities we share. The vital services we provide are at the core of making our world work, and by sharing your energy with…