System Operator

DESCRIPTION:

Reporting to the Supervisor FCC Operations, the System Operator plays a primary role as the centralized Operator-In-Charge within the FortisAlberta Control Centre. Responsibilities include operating and monitoring the distribution network, coordinating power outages, facilitating switching, and communicating distribution network information in a 24/7 environment. The System Operator leads continuous improvement initiatives and ensures the coordination of field staff in a manner that adheres to FortisAlberta safe work practices.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE (but not limited to):

• Monitor and control the operation of the distribution system either by administering permissions and authorizations to field staff or by utilizing the SCADA system.
• Write, approve, and direct switching programs to establish conditions on the distribution system for maintenance, construction, commissioning, and restoration purposes in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Perform Operator-In-Charge duties.
• Manage and dispatch trouble calls and crews.
• Coordinate system operations and switching with other utilities, REAs and independent power producers.
• Analyze planned and unplanned power outages with field staff to improve restoration practices.
• Respond to off-normal situations including outages, alarms and managing emergencies.
• Maintain System Status Log, enter information, prepare reports, and keep records as required by company policies.
• Coordinate with Operational Engineering to manage load transfers.
• Communicate with internal and external stakeholders as necessary.
• Provide input into development of FortisAlberta's protection code and system operating policies and procedures.
• Anticipate peak demand periods or emergencies and proactively plan/coordinate the required work.
• Explore, identify, initiate, and lead improvements for processes, practices, and tools.
• Participate and provide input into the development and delivery of training materials and activities.
• Assist with the mentoring and coaching of new System Operators.
• Run all FortisAlberta Control Centre computer applications.
• Communicate with the Data Integrity Team to report deficiencies.
• Special projects and other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Thorough understanding of the operation of distribution systems, electrical systems, and/or other relevant experience required to operate the system efficiently and effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships and work collaboratively as part of a large team.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills in dealing with and internal and external customers.
• Ability to analyze information and make decisions independently during high volume periods and under stressful conditions.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to continuous improvement, challenge the 'status quo' and provide sound recommendations to improve processes.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills to manage multiple priorities and competing demands.
• Working knowledge of computer applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, and SharePoint) and ability to learn and understand new and advanced applications.
• Knowledge of FortisAlberta service territory geography.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• An Electrical Engineering Technology diploma, Journeyman Power Line Technician, or Power Systems Electrician certificate is required.
• Qualified Applicants must receive an overall rating of "recommended" in a psychometric test administered by a third-party vendor.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• A certificate in GIS is considered an asset.
• A second credential, such as an Electrical Engineering Technologist, Journeyman Power Line Technician, or Power System Electrician, is considered an asset.
• Experience with SCADA or an Advanced Distribution Management System / Outage Management System is considered an asset.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS:

• Participation in standby and occasional overtime during emergencies is required.
• Business needs dictate that the successful applicants must live within one hundred (100) kilometres of the Airdrie FortisAlberta Control Centre or a distance that allows a maximum sixty (60) minute response time to the Airdrie FortisAlberta Control Centre.
• Hours of work are based on an 8 or 12 hour rotational shift as determined by business requirements.
• This has been identified as a safety-sensitive position. All successful candidates will be subject to a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
• Candidates being considered will be subject to colour vision deficiency test.
• Candidates being considered for this position will be subject to technical testing.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Expected hours: 40.00 per week

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Company pension
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision care
• Wellness program

Work Location: In person