AA Operator

Key Accountabilities

• Performs with or without instructions, routine switching of substations equipment such as, transformers, breakers, regulators, buses, capacitors, lines, flexible jumpering, drains or directs the draining of static charges on cables and equipment, and tests for back feed on lines or equipment etc. Operates automatic and manually operated pole-top switches on overhead lines. Performs capacitor refusing and power balancing. Operates and inspects the AC Network in outlying areas.
• Plans and executes emergency switching operations, with or without supervision, to de-energize transformers, buses or lines under fault conditions to restore or maintain service, to prevent damage to equipment, and to safeguard life. Contacts the SOC as required.
• Checks and administers requests for shutdown. Directs installation and removal of portable equipment (substations, capacitors, oil coolers etc). Ensures safety of for all persons working within substations. Acts as Safety Operator. Acts as Protective Leader for non- qualified DTE personnel and outside contractors. Assists PERT with distribution relay periodical inspections. Assists EMJ on portable substation installation to spot, level, connect grounds, connect alarms, house service and install fencing.
• Inspects electrical, mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic equipment prior to its operation and after work has been done on the equipment. Performs quarterly battery inspection including taking readings, refilling fluid levels, etc. Checks switchboard equipment for abnormal readings and indications, relays for targets and correct operation, regulators, capacitors, transformers, for electrical or mechanical damage. Visually examines buses, insulators, bushings, cable potheads, etc., for breaks, deterioration, foreign objects, etc. If required in his/her judgment, takes immediate action to isolate defective equipment to repair or arrange for its repairs.
• Performs routine inspections for buildings, grounds, equipment, fences etc. Notifies proper authorities (supervisor, AFC, Security, SOC etc) for any service or repairs needed. Works on non-SMJ related work (painting key bolts, lock maintenance, door gaskets, water cooling repairs etc.)
• When dispatched, responds to station alarms; interprets relay indications; observes switchboard instruments; checks operating condition of equipment and lines. From these observations, analyzes the trouble and determines what action must be taken and when it must be taken. Reports condition and actions taken to system supervisor, informs AFC when required. In case of total system shutdown, may be requested to start peakers under black-start conditions to furnish power for restarting system generation.
• Records instrument readings; system interconnection readings; changes charts; and maintains station logbook. Studies and reviews station and construction drawings, bulletins on operating procedures and department reports to maintain current knowledge of stations, equipment relaying schemes, etc. Revises drawings, procedures, manual articles, etc., and forwards to Supervisor.
• Must understand fire-fighting methods to control oil and high voltage equipment fires.
• Operates synchronizing equipment and generating equipment for peaking purposes. Inspects and maintains peaking equipment including month end readings, fluid levels, samples and the ordering of fuel. Administers peaker requests and provides protection for peaker unit personnel.
• Tests, operates and inspects DAS and SCADA equipment, distribution loop schemes etc., in the station and on the Overhead Lines System.
• Assists with field training as needed