Distribution System Operator

PPL Corporation; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A major electric utility provider is seeking a System Operator to manage transmission and distribution operations in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The role requires evaluating the status of electrical equipment, preparing maintenance activities, and executing emergency procedures when necessary. Candidates should have a High School Diploma, experience in electrical principles, and must be willing to work rotating shifts. This position emphasizes safety and effective communication within operational teams.

Qualifications

• Experience in the theory and application of basic electrical principles.
• Must be willing to work shifts and overtime.
• Successful completion of formal System Operator Training School required.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and manage the status of all transmission and distribution equipment.
• Prepare switching and tagging activities for maintenance services.
• Execute Emergency Load Control Procedures in crisis situations.

Skills

Basic electrical principles

Basic computer skills

Effective communication skills

Ability to work under pressure

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent GED

Job description

Company Summary Statement

PPL Electric Utilities delivers safe, reliable and affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million homes and businesses throughout its 29-county service territory in eastern and central Pennsylvania. Through smart investments and innovation, it has built one of the most advanced electric grids in the United States. And, with over a century of expertise, PPL Electric remains focused on continuing to build the utility of the future, today. Regularly ranking among the country’s best utility companies for reliability and customer satisfaction, PPL Electric has won numerous awards, including 30 J.D. Power Awards for providing top-quality service to residential and business customers. PPL Electric is a major employer and an active supporter of the communities it serves. Empowering employees, community members and initiatives across its service territory through volunteerism and investments in organizations that support education, sustainability, and wellbeing.

Overview

Under general direction, responsible for the more complex directed single and three-phase switching and customer restoration efforts. Works independently with minimal guidance using knowledge of the PPL Permit and Tag process, T&D Operating Instructions, and departmental guidelines. May provide guidance and direction to other PPL employees to support production of high quality, timely and cost-effective restoration of electrical service.

Must be willing to work rotating shifts!

#INDPPL

Responsibilities

• Evaluates and controls the status of all PPL Electric Utilities (PPLEU) transmission, distribution, and substation equipment. Properly documents maintenance and emergent work activities, as well as system problems. Reports any major system problems or customer interruptions as appropriate.
• Prepares more complex directed single and three-phase switching and tagging activities in support of maintenance or restorative services. Ensure familiarity with all jobs currently in progress to ensure safe work conditions for field crews and the public.
• Prepares and analyzes load transfers on both the distribution and the transmission systems to prevent overload damage to PPL EU facilities and to restore customer load in the minimum time possible.
• Enhances the accuracy of operational tools through the on-going revision of primary operating maps, static map boards, computer models, and Operating Instructions.
• Execute Emergency Load Control Procedures to maintain system integrity under emergency conditions up to and including the shedding of firm load, independent of management direction.
• Directs certain activities of Distribution Operations, Relay Test, and other departments, utilizing via 3-part communications to effectively and clearly communicate planned work steps and ensure full understanding of orders issued.
• Provides functional advice or training to less-experienced System Operators or System Dispatchers. Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience. May direct the work of other staff members.
• Increases and applies knowledge of the PPL Permit and Tag process to plan work activities to minimize customer and equipment outage time and maximize employee safety.
• Required to do shift work and to work overtime.
• Physical presence in the office/on-site to engage in face-to-face interaction and coordination of work among direct reports and co-workers.
• May be assigned an Electric Utilities emergency and storm role. This is a special assignment that comes into play during storms and other emergencies when the company needs to restore power or respond to other issues affecting customer service. This role may necessitate the need to work after-hours, outside of your normal schedule.

Qualifications

Candidates must meet the basic qualifications and pass all required tests or assessments to receive consideration. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility form upon hire.

Basic Qualifications

• High School Diploma or Equivalent GED
• Experience in the theory and application of basic electrical principles
• Must be willing to do shift work and work overtime
• Pre-employment testing is required: PSP psychological testing
• Successful completion of the formal System Operator Training School and "on-the-job" Training programs is required
• Basic Computer Skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of three years in a skilled field electrical or line crew position
• Experience in the application and use of an energy control process
• Demonstrated ability to organize and analyze data and apply sound reasoning and judgment in developing appropriate solutions to operation of the system under normal and emergency conditions
• Ability and initiative to organize and direct a number of concurrent activities, under extreme pressure
• A high degree of personal discipline and respect for preparing accurate data, permits, switching orders, and other reports
• Ability to work independently, without supervision, and as a member of a group
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Effective interpersonal skills

#INDPPL