Disturbance Analysis Technologist

Job Level: OT4
Date Posted: November 7, 2024
Closing Date: Nov 24, 2024
Job Type: Full-time Permanent
Category: Internal/External Opportunities

We power Alberta. Our transmission lines deliver electricity to millions of Albertans 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When you’re on our team, you’re supporting our province’s homes, farms, businesses and industries by providing safe, reliable and cost-effective service. Whether working in the field or in the office, every AltaLinker contributes to keeping the lights on.

As a member of the Berkshire Hathaway Energy family, we are part of a global group of companies delivering sustainable electricity and utility services to customers worldwide. Our exceptional customer service, commitment to the environment, and world-class safety record makes us a leader in our industry.

Today, the transmission system is more important than ever. As we connect new sources of renewable energy to the grid and support Alberta’s energy transition to net-zero emissions, AltaLink’s transmission system is the backbone of the changing electricity system. With our head office in Calgary, and regional offices in Greater Edmonton, Red Deer and Lethbridge, we have central and southern Alberta covered.

We offer work with meaning, incredible opportunities for development, work life balance and opportunities to contribute to your community.  Join our team 

Job Description:

An opportunity currently exists for a Disturbance Analysis Technologist in System Operations Engineering team at AltaLink’s Calgary Head Office. The successful candidate will be accountable for the collection of power system event data, supporting the analysis of transmission system disturbances and managing the mitigation of deficiencies and/or improvements in the operation of the transmission equipment. Additionally, the candidate will ensure all relevant outage data is retained so appropriate performance summaries can be produced.

 Responsibilities:

• Acquire relevant power system event information from all available sources (including Control Centre operator logbook, PI database, Digital Fault Recorders (DFRs) and other Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs), line and substation drawings), and support and perform analysis on transmission system events for correct or incorrect equipment operation; 
• Analyze and identify problems/issues associated with equipment operation, initiate corrective actions to mitigate them and follow-up to ensure that appropriate actions are completed in a timely matter; 
• Ensure that accurate and relevant power system event data and equipment data is entered and maintained in the performance and outage database; 
• Help locate power system faults using information collected remotely from IED relays and DDRs for the expedient dispatch of field resources; 
• Manage the operation and associated networks/communication links of numerous 'smart' devices (digital/numeric relays, smart meters, Digital Fault Recorders, etc.) to provide the necessary information for forensic analysis of transmission system disturbances. Propose changes to these devices, networks and related processes to improve information gathering and analysis capability; 
• Provide technical support in responding to performance related information requests from internal and external stakeholders; 
• Act as a liaison with office and field Protection and Control (P&C) specialists to resolve P&C equipment connection deficiencies; 
• Provide technical support in the implementation of new power system monitoring equipment; 
• Support the development, interpretation, implementation and modification of operational standards and practices that affect the quality and reliability of the electrical service to customers. 

Requirements

• Electrical Engineering Technology diploma or related diploma from a recognized technical school. 
• A minimum of 3 years related experience in the area(s) of: Fault and Disturbance Analysis, Protection & Control, power system operation and/or power system equipment. 
• Proven ability/experience in the above noted responsibilities.
• Formal training in the area(s) of Fault and Disturbance Analysis and/or Protection & Control is preferred. 
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including strong Excel skills. Experience with databases would be an asset. 
• Working knowledge of networking troubleshooting concepts related to telnet, traceroute, ping and devices such as routers and line sharing switches would be an asset. 
• Knowledge of engineering applications including Cape, Aspen One-Liner, PowerBase, TOSS, VISIO, Microstation, ITOA and SAP would be an asset. 
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to interface with team members and customers to promote positive outcomes.
• Strong written, reporting and graphical presentation skills.
• Strong analytical, risk assessment and problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage a wide variety of issues simultaneously. 
• Proven track record of good attendance and job performance.

Notes:

AltaLink employees should be aware that we may contact your manager during the selection process.  Some positions may require job specific assessments, regular criminal record checks, additional AltaLink training, medical assessments, annual drivers abstract, and drug tests.  Please contact the Hiring Manager or Recruiter for further clarification if required.

We thank all candidates for their interest in a career with AltaLink. Due to the high volume of applications, we will only be contacting candidates being considered for an interview. We sincerely appreciate all interest and invite all candidates to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and/or X.

In proceeding with your application, you will be required to submit personal information to AltaLink through our applicant tracking service provider and this information will be accessible to AltaLink personnel involved in AltaLink’s hiring processes.  AltaLink also relies on third parties to assist in the hiring process and your information may be provided to them for this purpose. In the application process, AltaLink will require you to provide consent to the collection, use, and storage of your personal information for these purposes.

At AltaLink, we celebrate diversity and inclusion. We are committed to fair employment practices, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, family status, source of income, sexual orientation or any other category protected by applicable provincial or federal law.

For eligible positions AltaLink offers optional hybrid work that provides flexibility between working from home and the office.

Benefits

• Extended Healthcare Plan (Medical, Disability, Dental & Vision)
• Spending Accounts
• Competitive Compensation and Bonus Plan
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan and Group RRSP
• Group Life Insurance
• Hybrid Work Schedule for Eligible Roles
• Employee Assistance Program
• Vacation, Earned Time off, Birthdays Off Work and 13 Recognized Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Social Club
• Onsite Parking and Onsite Gym
• Wellness Programs