TFS P&C Field Technologist Assoc- Michiana

Job Summary

A P&C Field Technologist Associate is responsible for the programming, operation, testing, and maintenance of fundamental protection and control devices and related equipment. The role focuses on understanding control circuitry and utilizing computer‑based testing and analysis of devices such as digital and electromechanical relays, intelligent electronic devices, station disturbance recorders, digital fault recorders, system event recorders, remote terminal units, SCADA systems, statistical load metering, telemetering, and transducers.

The technologist maintains and operates power line carriers, tone, pilot wire, fiber, and P&C communications over the power grid network, and may respond to emergency callouts at substations as needed.

• ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Test fundamental protection & control devices regularly and as required.
• Calibrate protection & control devices on a pre‑established schedule.
• Assist with switching at all voltage levels under the direction of the proper Dispatching Authority.
• Maintain test equipment in good working order.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and drawings.
• Operate computers to test, calibrate, and retrieve data from protection & control devices.
• Assist with installation, maintenance, and operation of relays, PLC sets, station SCADA, and associated communications equipment.
• Troubleshoot and repair fundamental electromechanical relays.
• Troubleshoot and repair microprocessor‑based relays at the card level (e.g., replacing power supplies, communications cards, I/O cards).
• Assist with diagnosing equipment failures, protection mis‑operations, and corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Ensure circuitry, installation, and operation of equipment is correct before service is placed in operation.
• Read electrical schematics and verify that physical installations match the schematics.
• Record test readings and results, confirming they are within acceptable specifications.
• Perform basic fault analysis, obtaining oscillography data to verify protective device operation.
• Assist a team in installing, testing, and commissioning new P&C systems for capital construction projects.
• Support the on‑site technical lead in directing contract wiremen and other P&C field personnel.

• Entry‑level knowledge from a Bachelor’s Degree in an ABET‑accredited engineering technology program.
• Ability to perform technical functions with guidance and familiarity with relevant standards, codes, and regulations.
• Assists higher‑level employees with routine problems and maintains required records and reports.
• Plans work following AEP standard planning practices and prioritizes routine tasks.
• Provides input to annual budgets, capital forecasts, and improvement requisitions.
• Participates in planning meetings and prepares basic cost estimates.
• Seeks opportunities beyond routine assignments, solves light‑complexity problems, and expands technical knowledge.
• Develops understanding of AEP’s organizational structure, utility accounting, and business units.
• Demonstrates customer‑first attitude and participation in professional organizations is encouraged.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (ABET accredited) or Engineering Technology (ABET accredited).
• Preferred majors:
  Electrical Engineering (EE) or Electrical Engineering Technology (EET).
• Entry‑level position for new graduates with a Bachelor’s degree.

• Must successfully complete the Physical Abilities Test (PAT) and a standard color blindness test.
• Must be able to perform duties safely, courteously, and professionally.
• Must possess a valid state driver’s license and meet all vehicle operation requirements.
• Travel and overtime may be required, though not normally scheduled.
• Working knowledge of current, potential, closing, and trip circuits; cable, lugs, and wire for protective relay and control circuits.
• Working knowledge of switchboard panel‑support and through systems; ability to read, understand, and correct electrical prints and diagrams.
• Ability to use hand tools.

Level: Light Work – may require walking or standing for extended periods, lifting up…