System Controller

System Controller

The City of Naperville's Electric Utility is currently seeking an experienced System Controller to directly supervise the daily operation of the City's electrical distribution system and its service restoration at times of power outages. The Controller communicates with City Dispatchers on operational problems, assists in evaluation of worker resources needed for power restoration, monitors the status of the electric system using SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and DA (Distribution Automation) systems, determines proper course of action based on SCADA, DA, and other information received, and evaluates real-time data and alarm events for determining the condition of the system. The Controller also directs switching on the electrical system and monitors security devices.

This position is represented by the IBEW Local 9 union. Wage rates and other benefits are subject to the language in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The 2025 starting salary of this position is $48.5200 per hour. The 2026 wage will be implemented once a new collective bargaining agreement is ratified.

$48.5200/hour @ Step 1

$51.4500/hour @ Step 2

$54.3700/hour @ Step 3

$57.3200/hour @ Step 4

Generally, all new hires will start at Step 1. Placement beyond Step 1 is determined by verifiable experience and with approval from the Director and Human Resources.

Duties

• Directs field crews during switching and tagging procedures, as well as other daily work projects. Authorizes the operation of switching devices.
• Manages the speedy but safe and effective restoration of electrical utility service to customers at times of power outages. Communicates with City Dispatchers on outage restoration.
• Exercises authority over crews during outage situations to restore/maintain continuity of electric service for approximately 57,000 metered customers.
• Exercises safety in all work activities and job functions. Incorporates safety considerations in all work routines and procedures that are compiled by the Systems Control Section.
• Maintains daily logs for Hold Card, Radio/Vehicle, and Outages. Maintains databases for work orders, devices, and other items. Calculates and assembles data for use in the SAIDI Outage Reporting System (System Average Interruptible Duration Index).
• Maintains contact status and location with all field personnel on assignments.
• Receives and processes incoming calls and relays information to appropriate personnel when required.
• Initiates documentation requests for all emergencies and other related concerns.
• Monitors and receives weather reports and updates contracted weather services. Maintains weather information logs. Alerts field personnel of severe weather.
• Monitors electrical substation and DA alarms. Responds and directs crews to take appropriate action in response to specific alarms.
• Utilizes computer systems for data entry (i.e. Daily Log, Interruption Reports, Abnormal Log, and Switching Routines) and for retrieval of information (i.e. Customer Counts, Daily Loads, e-mail, electronic calendar functions, etc.).
• Processes paperwork and maintains related records, including a variety of reference books and emergency contact numbers, as well as maps.
• Operates the SCADA and DA systems for routine switching and service restoration, including opening and closing circuit breakers and switches, inhibiting auto re-close, adjusting voltage levels, using tap changers for voltage control, monitoring alarms, system & feeder loads, and locking down transformers for switching procedure.
• Writes switching and other routines for daily work in the field, as well as routines for any special situations.
• Schedules and approves system changes required to complete maintenance and construction work. This includes establishing and writing switching procedures and preparing contingency plans for system abnormalities.
• Monitors security system alarms in accordance with prescribed security procedures and notifications.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• Seven years of direct experience in an electric utility control room, or an Associate's Degree plus five years of experience in an electric utility control room, or a Journeyman Lineman license plus five years of experience in an electric utility control room, or a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology plus three years of experience in an electric utility control room.
• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated knowledge of electrical substations, high voltage transmission lines, the electrical distribution system, relaying and reading and understanding line diagrams and distribution maps.
• A valid State of Illinois driver's license.

Additional Information

The City of Naperville, Illinois is a dynamic community of 153,000 residents, conveniently located 28 miles west of Chicago. Various publications have named Naperville as one of the best cities in the United States in which to live. The City has gained national recognition for our family-friendly environment, excellent schools and library system, low crime rate, and vibrant downtown area. It's also a great place to work! Our municipal government employs over 900 dedicated individuals in a wide range of job categories and provides a collaborative working environment, a forward-looking leadership team, and a competitive benefits package.

Applications should be completed thoroughly, and resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application but should be attached to the application. Include all requested education, experience, attachments, and other information when applying. Incomplete applications are subject to rejection. Notifications to applicants will be sent electronically to the email address provided in the application. THE CITY OF NAPERVILLE IS AN E. O. E.

The City of Naperville complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals needing accommodations in the recruitment process should notify Human Resources in advance at View phone number on click.appcast.io.