Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist

American Electric Power; Salem (OH); On-site; USD 88,000 - 128,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power seeks a Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist Sr to maintain and support OT real-time tools, EMS/SCADA, and related systems across transmission centers. You will coordinate patching, failover, and data archives, ensuring reliable operation and prompt issue resolution.

The role emphasizes scripting (PowerShell, Python), SQL, Windows Server experience, and vendor coordination, with a focus on continuous improvement and customer focus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or associate’s with 2 years of relevant experience.
• High school diploma with 4 years of relevant experience acceptable.
• Certifications may substitute part of the required experience.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate configuration and support of data archives (PI, OSI Chronus) and assist with SCADA/EMS platform software upgrades.
• Perform OT platform analysis to maintain the reliability of SCADA and EMS systems.
• Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve application issues with vendor coordination for EMS/SCADA.
• Develop repeatable scripts (PowerShell, Batch, Python) for deploying configuration changes and patches across servers.
• Analyze logs and monitors to identify issues and develop mitigation plans.
• Monitor logs during performance events and collaborate on restoration plans with architects.
• Conduct backups and restoration tests; maintain emergency restoration procedures.
• Ensure reliable operation of OT applications including networking, databases, alarming and logging.
• Schedule patches and server configurations to minimize downtime in collaboration with teams.
• Provide after-hours on-call support for DMS/EMS and SCADA systems.

Skills

Adaptability

Customer focus

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Associate’s degree + 2 years of relevant experience

High school diploma/GED + 4 years of relevant experience

Tools

PowerShell

Python

SQL Server

Oracle Database

Windows Server

ServiceNow ITSM

SCADA/EMS systems

Job description

Job Summary The Real Time Operations Applications Support Specialist Sr establishes a moderate understanding of the technologies and processes essential for the development and support of Operational Technology (OT) real-time tools and systems. Responsibilities include providing application support for Energy Management Systems (EMS) and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, as well as Real Timeher applications utilized in Transmission Control Centers. Key tasks involve planning, researching, and evaluating patching, failover, and maintenance activities required for Real Time real-time systems, along with developing a solid understanding of EMS and SCADA functionalities. This role also engages in the development and maintenance of best practices for application development and participating in the creation of technical documentation necessary for supporting real-time applications. A strong emphasis on adaptability, customer focus, and continuous improvement is essential for effectively supporting real-time systems.

Job Description

What you’ll do:

• Coordinate the configuration and support of data archives (PI, OSI Chronus) and assist with SCADA/EMS platform software upgrades.
• Perform operational technology platform analysis and demonstrate a moderate understanding necessary for maintaining the reliability of SCADA and DMS/EMS systems.
• Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve application-related issues with minimal guidance from senior members while helping coordinate vendor support for EMS and SCADA applications.
• Participate in the configuration of network monitoring tools and develop repeatable scripts (PowerShell, Batch, Python) for deploying configuration changes and patches across servers.
• Analyze logs and application/system monitors to proactively identify potential issues and develop strategic plans to mitigate them.
• Monitor logs during performance events and collaborate with architects to troubleshoot and create restoration plans.
• Conduct routine backups and periodic restoration tests to ensure backup validity and maintain documented emergency restoration procedures.
• Ensure the reliable operation of OT applications, including communications, networking, databases, alarming, logging, and human interfaces.
• Work with team members and business process owners to schedule and administer patches, updates, and server configurations to minimize system downtime.
• Provide after‑hours support as needed in an on‑call rotation to maintain reliable operations of DMS/EMS and SCADA systems.

What we’re looking for:

Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist SG7 Education & Experience

Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in a related field Or Associate’s degree in a related field with 2 years of relevant experience Or High school diploma/GED with 4 years of relevant experience

Related Fields for Education and Experience:

• IT/OT System Administration
• IT/OT Application Support
• Cyber Security
• ADMS/DMA/EMS/OMS/SCADA

Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist Senior SG8 Education and Experience

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 2 years of relevant experience Or associate’s degree in a related field with 4 years of relevant experience Or High school diploma/GED with 6 years of relevant experience

Note: Professional certifications (such as A+, Network+, CCNA, CCNP, Cyber Security+, Security+, and CCSP) may be accepted as substitutes for a portion of the required experience.

In addition:

• Nice to have Understanding/Experience supporting and maintaining mission‑critical operational technology (OT) applications
• Experience with SCADA, EMS, ADMS, OMS, Historian, or related utility systems nice to have but not required
• Experience with incident management, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis
• Experience with ServiceNow ITSM or similar ticketing platforms
• Experience with Windows Server administration and application support
• Experience with SQL Server or Oracle database administration and support
• Strong SQL query skills, both writing and troubleshooting
• Experience with application monitoring, log analysis, and performance troubleshooting
• Experience supporting vendor applications and coordinating issue resolution with external vendors
• Experience with patch management, release coordination, and system maintenance activities
• Experience working in a 24x7 operational support environment
• Experience with disaster recovery, failover testing, and business continuity processes
• Experience with networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, DNS, and firewalls
• Experience with scripting and automation using PowerShell, Python, or similar tools
• Experience with NERC CIP, cyber security practices, or regulated utility environments preferred

Where you’ll work:

This role sits on site in New Albany, Ohio, Salem, Virginia or Corpus Christi, Texas.

What you’ll get:

• Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist SG7($87,633-$109,544)
• Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist Senior SG8($98,993-$128,689)

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well‑being of our employees.

Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward‑thinking organization, this is the company for you!

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer‑employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

At American Electric Power, we provide more than electricity to our millions of customers - we energize possibilities. We're redefining the future of energy by reducing our carbon footprint, empowering the communities we serve and building an engaged, talented workforce. All while delivering the reliable service our customers expect. It’s an exciting time in the energy industry. Are you ready to be part of it? We’re looking for team members to help create the grid of the future. Learn more about our commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive work culture that values different experiences.