System Operator

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

Must have a completion certificate of DMEA's Dispatcher Apprenticeship Program, or DMEA-approved equivalent. The ability to properly operate dispatch office equipment including a computer, telephone, and two-way radio is required. Proficient personal computer skills are required, including experience using database, word processing, and e-mailing programs; Microsoft Office Products preferred. The aptitude and ability to be proficient in computer systems specific to DMEA including the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA), the Customer Information System (CIS/iVUE), DMEA's and NISC's Outage management Systems (OMS), and Automated meter Reading (AMR) software tools is necessary. Given adequate and reasonable training, proficiency of the above programs is expected. Proficiency operating and switching electric systems is preferred. A minimum of three years combined experience and /or education related to transmission and distribution electrical systems is required. High school diploma or equivalent required. Must have basic math skills. Must have legible handwriting. Bilingual language skills (English/Spanish) a plus. A valid Colorado driver's license is required. Dispatchers must reside with a 30-minute response time of DMEA headquarters.

The Dispatcher position performs a safety sensitive function and is subject to drug and alcohol testing as stated in the DMEA Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy and Procedures Manual and the "All Employee Drug and Alcohol Policy."

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Delta-Montrose Electric Association reserves the right to change or modify the duties and essential functions of this position at any time.

In an efficient and professional manner, and in accordance with the DMEA/IBEW Labor Agreement and DMEA Accident Prevention Manual:

• Operates electrical systems safely, reliably, and efficiently.
• Fluently communicates system conditions, problems or concerns with other dispatchers, field personnel, other employees, necessary outside entities, and with other company their system as appropriate.
• Reviews log sheet of previous shifts to become acquainted with current system conditions before coming on shift. While on shift, monitor and review reports, logs telemetering, SCADA, tow-way radios, and telephones to be continually aware of power flows, unusual conditions, and system operations in order to provide continuous electric service in a safe and efficient manner.
• Writes, checks, and issues orders for system switching on DMEA's transmission and distribution system and for other companies as requested by those systems. Coordinates switching schedules with field personnel and other entities such as Tri-State G&T, Xcel, and WAPA as necessary or requested.
• Dispatches necessary field personnel to check and fix problems. Performs necessary follow-up to assure problems are handled appropriately.
• Operates system equipment that is monitored remotely using SCADA and other computerized devices. Responsible for safe, and efficient operation of non-monitored system equipment by utilizing field personnel to operate various electrical substation and line equipment involved in the transmission and distribution of electric energy to the customer.
• Maintains a daily log of events. Issues General Job Orders as necessary to assure work needed is documented and resolved. Maintains a database of information such as outages, underground locates requested, General Job Orders issued, power quality concerns, etc. Prepares and distributes daily or weekly operation reports as requested. Prepares and monthly outage reports. Follows up on General Job Orders issued to assure problems are resolved.
• Answers company telephone calls for DMEA and other shared-service entities.
• Monitor security camera and intercoms for DMEA.
• Instructs and trains apprentices in al phases of Dispatcher work performed by Journeymen Dispatchers.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed in this job. This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for personnel in this position.

Must exhibit a friendly and courteous manner when talking to customers. Must exhibit a courteous and cooperative manner in communicating and working with other employees. Must develop and maintain healthy long-term working relationships with field personnel.

Performs other duties of a like or lesser grade which may be assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Understands and applies the concept of providing quality services to DMEA customers and employees and agrees to maintain a continuing commitment to superior service.

Requires the ability to develop plans, procedures and goals; perform and coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously, present information to others, work cooperatively; learn, operate, and restore complex systems; and work under stress to complete projects accurately within reasonable deadlines.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Twelve-hour shift work required (Shifts rotate over 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.) Calm, controlled responses required at all times. Stress level is very high during major outages where long hours on duty are required and demands from customers are intense. Requires continuous sitting and use of keyboard/computer; and occasional standing, walking, bending , kneeling, and reaching. Requires finger dexterity, ability to perform close work, good hearing and vision. Just be able to visually discern color (must not be colorblind). Must have developed and demonstrated listening skills and the ability to speak clearly and professionally. On a daily basis, requires attention to detail; the ability to read, write, and perform basic math; analyze data and reports; and conduct research. Must be able to continually process old and new information in order to plan ahead and, as much as possible with given information, anticipate problems that may arise. Must work collaboratively with others.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Regular, predictable attendance as scheduled is required. Approximately 95% of employee's time is spent indoors at a desk in an office environment. The remaining time is spent standing. Approximately 25% of employee's time is spent talking on the telephone to customers or employees. Equipment operated includes computers, printer, FAX, copy machine, etc.

Occasional travel by company vehicle and /or commercial means will be required.