Apprentice, System Controller

Alectra - Vaughn, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Vaughn, VA

About the position

The Apprentice, System Controller position at Alectra is designed for motivated individuals eager to learn and grow in the field of system control. This role involves hands-on experience in operating, authorizing, and directing the safe and reliable operation of the Alectra distribution system. The apprentice will work under the guidance of experienced System Controllers and will be required to work a 24/7 rotating shift schedule, including being on an on-call rotation once fully qualified. This position serves as a foundational step towards a rewarding career as a System Controller.

Responsibilities

• Operate, authorize and direct the safe and reliable operation of the Alectra distribution system under normal and emergency conditions on a 24/7 basis.
• Monitor, control, and record all activities on the distribution system.
• Prioritize and report deficiencies of all station/distribution equipment including SCADA and communication systems and conduct follow-up as required.
• Maintain the distribution system configuration as designed/planned whenever possible.
• Review, accept and administer applications for Work Protection from internal and external work groups ensuring that all such applications are correct and that the requested isolation will provide adequate protection following the IHSA Electrical Utility Protection Code and Alectra procedures.
• Coordinate activities and outages on transformer station/transmission lines and distribution equipment with Hydro One/IESO and other Alectra departments to ensure all work is carried out in a safe, economic and efficient manner.
• Coordinate disconnects and reconnects between line crews, residential, commercial and key account customers for maintenance, upgrades and revenue issues including installation of micro-fits or embedded generation.
• Answer telephone calls from customers regarding inquiries, service requests and trouble reports and dispatch respondents as appropriate.
• Support the Outage Management function by performing daily tasks such as organizing and keeping an accurate record of interruptions and transfers, and checking and filing records including Orders-To-Operate, Operator Summary, schematics, etc.
• Manage outages using the Outage Management System for real-time statistical reporting and data analysis.
• Communicate with Management and members of the public to provide status of power outages and anticipated restoration times.
• Update GIS records, operating diagrams and other databases to reflect real-time distribution system configuration.
• Communicate with and prepare reports for various agencies including ESA, MOE and MOL.
• Assist the System Control Supervisor in developing operational procedures and processes.
• Assist in the training and evaluation of System Control Apprentices.
• Perform analytical problem solving, troubleshooting and contingency planning of the distribution system.
• Respond to emergencies as defined in the Alectra Electrical Emergency Preparedness Plan (EEPP).
• Perform emergency switching and power restorations, directing crews/supervisors to restore power safely.
• Respond to emergencies involving fire and police, document times and assign crews/supervisors accordingly to adhere to OEB requirements.

Requirements

• 3-Year College Diploma in an electrical discipline or equivalent.
• Ability to obtain OACETT certification as a C. Tech or C.E.T.
• Valid class G driver's license.
• Ability to read, interpret and utilize technical prints and schematics.
• Ability to multi-task and demonstrate analytical thinking, problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive starting pay with annual increases over the apprenticeship period.
• Hands-on training and mentorship from experienced professionals in the field.