Entry-Level Power System Dispatcher & Operator

American Electric Power; New Albany (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power is seeking an entry-level Dispatcher/Operator to monitor and control the transmission system under supervision. You will coordinate with the AEP SCC, perform real-time switching and tagging for maintenance, and help ensure reliable power delivery across transmission levels.

The role emphasizes monitoring voltages, power flows, and metering while maintaining logs and responding to emergencies. A two-year technical degree or equivalent experience is required.

Qualifications

• Entry-level candidates: two-year technical degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or High School diploma with 2 years power-system experience.
• Not required but 1–2 years in substation operation, protective relaying, or distribution dispatching is preferred.
• Valid state driver license.
• HireVue Dispatcher Worker Virtual Job Tryout is recommended, online and untimed, ~45 minutes.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and regulate system voltage levels and real/reactive power flows for the transmission system.
• Assist in real-time operation of the AEP transmission system in coordination with the AEP SCC and neighboring utilities.
• Assist in real-time operation of distribution equipment inside the station fence with regional centers.
• Prepare basic switching orders and safety tagging for removal of equipment for maintenance, repair, or construction.
• Assist in directing switching operations under emergency conditions and restore service quickly and safely.
• Maintain a log of events and transactions for facilities and equipment.
• Observe and assist the SCADA system and related functions.
• Monitor metering and communications facilities and report malfunctions.

Skills

SCADA operations

Real-time monitoring

Electrical system knowledge

Shift work

Education

Two-year technical degree in Electrical Engineering Technology

High School diploma with 2 years experience in power systems

Tools

SCADA

Job description

American Electric Power is seeking an entry-level Dispatcher/Operator to monitor and control the transmission system under supervision. You will coordinate with the AEP SCC, perform real-time switching and tagging for maintenance, and help ensure reliable power delivery across transmission levels.

The role emphasizes monitoring voltages, power flows, and metering while maintaining logs and responding to emergencies. A two-year technical degree or equivalent experience is required.