Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist

American Electric Power Co.; Salem (OH); On-site; USD 88,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power is seeking a Real Time Operations Applications Support Specialist to provide 24/7 support for OT real-time tools across multiple control centers. You will help with patching, failover, and maintenance while developing best practices and technical documentation.

Role involves coordinating with Reliability Coordinators, supporting EMS/SCADA/ADMS, and working with vendors. Training may occur in San Angelo, then Ft.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field, or equivalent combination.
• Experience with IT/OT systems and SCADA/EMS/ADMS is preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting and incident management skills are expected.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate configuration and support of data archives and assist with platform upgrades.
• Troubleshoot and resolve application issues with limited guidance from seniors.
• Develop scripts for deployment of changes and patches across servers.

Skills

PowerShell

Python

SQL

Windows Server

SCADA

EMS

ADMS

Troubleshooting

Vendor coordination

On-call support

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Associate’s degree + 2 years experience

High school diploma/GED + 4 years experience

Tools

ServiceNow ITSM

Log analysis tools

Job description

Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist

Location: 3 Locations

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:

Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the Associate level, with increased educational, skill or experience requirements for higher level roles

Real Time Operations Application Support Specialist SG7

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:

• 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

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!

American Electric Power (On-Site)

#LI-Onsite

#AEPCareers

#RealTimeOperations

Compensation

$87,633.00 - $128,688.00

Physical Demands

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.

“Knowing that I am part of team that is making the power grid safer and reliable gives me a real sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for coming to work every day.”

**This position will be based out of San Angelo during the training period and then be based out of Ft. Stockton. Successful candidate must reside in San Angelo during training and then Ft Stockton after.Supervise the Station Electrician and/or the Station Servicer crews in the construction and/or maintenance and operations work; respond to station trouble calls and perform/assist in service restoration work of station equipment and structures. Plan and schedule work assuring a safe and efficient flow of activities. Lead crews in a manner that is supportive of and consistent with the Transmission cultural pillars and the AEP Leadership framework. Assure all work will be performed in accordance with Company safety rules and practices. Perform Station Electrician and/or Station Servicer work as required. Activities associated with the performance of this work include planning procedures, directing or supervising assigned crew members, and exercising independent judgment in dealing with work and employee concerns.

The Real Time Operations Applications Support Specialist establishes a foundational understanding of the technologies and processes essential for the development and support of Operational Technology (OT) real‑time tools and systems. Responsibilities include providing 24/7 application support for Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS), Energy Management Systems (EMS), and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, which support four Transmission and seven Distribution Control Centers across 11 states.Key responsibilities include coordinating patching, software releases, failover testing, maintenance activities, and application lifecycle initiatives supporting Real‑Time Systems platforms. The role is responsible for driving operational readiness, managing vendor relationships, coordinating cross‑functional support activities, and ensuring incidents, problems, changes, and enhancement requests are effectively tracked through resolution. Additionally, the position will maintain governance processes, support ServiceNow ITSM workflows, develop operational procedures and support documentation, and provide visibility into platform health, risks, and service performance. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, stakeholder management, customer focus, adaptability, and a continuous improvement mindset to ensure reliable and efficient operation of business‑critical real‑time applications.

Under direct supervision and instruction, provide assistance to: ensure the efficient operation of the transmission system; coordinate operation of the transmission system with the appropriate Reliability Coordinator (AEP SCC), Distribution Dispatching Centers/Authorities, and Transmission Control Centers/Authorities (both internal and external to AEP); arrange, approve, and direct routine and emergency switching/tagging operations for equipment removal/restoration during maintenance, repair, replacement, and construction with limited instruction; receive, record, and maintain logs of operating conditions; monitor system voltages, transformer/line/equipment loadings, and in concert with the AEP SCC, apply corrective action when these parameters deviate from equipment ratings and/or operating limits; monitor the operation of metering and communication facilities and initiate corrective action upon malfunction.

AEP offers generous time off, competitive pay, and educational opportunities to help employees advance their careers.

Our culture is purpose-driven and team‑oriented: we combine innovation with a customer‑first focus to deliver reliable energy and brighter futures.