System Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Title
System Operator

Reports To
System Operations Manager

POSITION PURPOSE:
Responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the electric distribution system using OMS, SCADA, system monitoring, and system configuration tools. The System Operator supports real-time system operations, outage response, and service restoration while serving as a resource to teammates in maintaining a safe and reliable work environment.

JOB DIMENSIONS:
Internal Responsibility - Monitors and operates the electric distribution system through SCADA, OMS, and related control systems to ensure safe and reliable service. Coordinates outage response, service restoration, switching activities, and emergency operations while troubleshooting system issues and providing operational support to field personnel, engineers, and other departments. Directs available resources during outages, storms, and other system events, responds to alarms and abnormal operating conditions, and initiates appropriate communication and documentation. Supports continuous 24/7 control room operations through rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and regularly scheduled overtime. Shifts are generally 8–12 hours, with a maximum shift length of 16 hours on meeting days or during storm events and major outages.

External Responsibility - Maintains professional and effective communication with coworkers, members, the public, members, utilities, contractors, and governmental agencies. Maintains working knowledge of applicable distribution liability standards and stays informed about regulatory updates.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
• Supports the Cooperative's mission: delivering safe and reliable power to members at the lowest possible cost by modeling the company's Essential Attributes.
• Contributes to a healthy work culture and the overall success of the organization and inspires others to do the same.
• Adheres to company policies and safety requirements, promotes a strong safety culture, and reports unsafe conditions or incidents as required.
• Contributes to the achievement of organizational objectives in alignment with the Cooperative's and department's goals.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education and Experience: High School Diploma or equivalent (required). Demonstrates proficiency with computer systems and business software applications. Ability to learn new procedures, technologies, and equipment while adapting to changing operational needs.

Operational Experience: Prior experience in dispatch, system operations, or a similar role within electric utility, transmission, or distribution environments is preferred but not required. Familiarity with electrical distribution systems and utility operations is preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
Communication Skills - Communicates and coordinates effectively with field personnel regarding outages, SCADA events, and trouble calls. Collaborates with internal departments and external vendors to support event response and system operations and interacts professionally with Cooperative members during outages and field situations.

Computer Skills - Proficient in Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office applications. Ability to learn and effectively utilize OMS/SCADA systems and related tools to support troubleshooting and system operations.

Analytical Skills - Ability to review and interpret outage and SCADA event data, including historical and real-time reporting. Demonstrates ability to learn electrical system terminology and understand basic distribution system operations. Strong multitasking skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a real-time operational environment.

Influencing Skills - Collaborates effectively with others to achieve departmental and company goals while contributing to a team-oriented environment. Demonstrates integrity and ethical behavior in all aspects of business conduct.