Job Title: System Operator – Distribution

Company, Department: Nova Scotia Power – Control Centre Operations 
Location: Ragged Lake, Nova Scotia
Type of Employment: Regular, Full-Time

Number of Positions: 2

Salary: $53.79 per hour, as per the IBEW Collective Agreement
Closing Date: March 1, 2024
Reference Number: 2023-2200

We are looking for 2 System Operators  – Distribution to join our Control Centre Operation team in Ragged Lake. These roles report into the Manager, Distribution Control.

• The System Operator – Distribution is accountable for the safe, reliable operation and remote monitoring of the distribution system through the SCADA and OMS systems.
• You are accountable for the completion of all necessary operating reports.
• You will become proficient with and operate the following tools: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer equipment, Outage Management System (OMS) and FM radio (computer interface).
• You will also use other control center database applications including: equipment trouble reporting (SOTR), substation entry logging, Hold-off and Permit issuing logging and territory standby database as well as other related software applications.
• Utilizing the OMS you will be responsible for outage assessment, determination of response and recommendation for type of crew to a dispatch centre.
• You will be responsible for the connectivity of the electrical distribution model in relation to Standard Protection Code (SPC) switching on the distribution system and maintaining system configuration.
• You will be required to communicate effectively with other departments within NSPI as well as external agencies such as 911 dispatch centers, fire and police.
• You will be accountable under normal and abnormal conditions, to effectively communicate and direct personnel, having a broad range of electrical and technical backgrounds, in routine maintenance and emergency response activities.
• You will become knowledgeable in NSPI system operating practices as it relates to the electrical distribution system and follow established operating procedures and guidelines.
• You will effectively respond to situations that relate to the power system including emergency response plans, oil and chemical releases and field related emergencies.
• Through the use of SCADA computer equipment you will monitor the distribution system, carry out remote switching, assess and respond to alarms in a timely fashion.
• As the SPC Control Authority you will be responsible for issuing hold-offs and isolation-permits as well as developing or approving and directing switching procedures.
• You will be compliant with the SPC at all times.
• You must be willing to participate in and successfully complete training, which includes competency-based training skills, related to distribution system operations.
• You will function effectively in a 12-hour shift environment, working an average of 42 hours per week. You must have a proven record of reliability and you will be available and willing to work additional shifts for emergency restoration, or to support the continued operation of the desk.
• You will be responsible for your personal safety and that of co-workers, and those under your direction, by observing and ensuring compliance with all Occupational Health and Safety Rules and Regulations.
• You will be accountable for environmental performance as it relates to the environmental management system processes and initiatives.
• This position is considered a safety sensitive position. As such, the successful candidate must comply with the Emera Alcohol and Drug Policy which requires a confidential pre-employment alcohol and drug test in accordance with the Emera Alcohol and Drug Procedure.

To thrive in this role, you recognize yourself in most of the following competencies and skills listed below:

• University or community college education to the level of Technologist with studies in electrical devices and/or power system operation is required.
• Consideration will be given to applicants with an acceptable combination of education and experience in the electrical trade.
• You are a highly motivated team player, with strong communication skills and the ability to deliver exceptional customer service.
• Must be able to perform effectively under emergency situations and be adaptable to change. You must be proficient in the use of personal computers and software applications.
• You will be required to demonstrate acceptable color vision for operation of control monitoring equipment colour coded computer screens.
• Experience in an electric utility maintenance or construction environment would be an asset. Shift experience would be an asset.

We understand that experience comes in many forms, and we’re dedicated to adding new perspectives to the team. So, if your experience is close to what we’ve listed above, please consider applying.

At the Emera Group of Companies, you’ll be part of an inclusive, respectful workplace where everyone is welcomed and supported. Come build a career as unique as you are: making an impact from Atlantic Canada to the world. Your experience and perspective will help us to safely deliver cleaner, more reliable energy to our customers. If working in an innovative environment, challenging yourself, and shaping a cleaner energy future inspires you, we want to hear from you. Apply by March 1, 2024 and let us know why this role is right for you.

• Health & Wellbeing: A comprehensive benefits plan, 24/7 access to virtual health care services for you and your family through Dialogue, Employee and Family Assistance Program, parental leave top-up plan and wellness benefits.
• Grow Your Career: Opportunities to advance within and between our affiliate companies, a focus on employee development and available sponsored education programs.
• Community Engagement & Care: Corporate investments in the places where our people live and work, mentoring opportunities, fundraising-matching, volunteer programs, various committees and employee resource groups, and scholarships for children of employees.
• Competitive Compensation: A comprehensive benefits plan and a Defined Contribution Pension Plan.

As one of Atlantic Canada’s largest publicly traded companies, we are ranked one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, Top Employers for Young People and Top Diversity Employers. We know our success is driven by our dedicated teams and we strongly encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including persons who identify as racially visible, Indigenous, persons with disabilities, women in underrepresented roles and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Applicants from these equity groups may self-identify through the online application process. We support candidates and employees with access and accommodation needs and encourage you to let us know when you require accommodation.

The success of the Emera Company is driven by its people: a strong team with a shared commitment to support the Emera Company mission and values. The purpose of our recruitment policy is to provide a consistent framework to support fair and equitable attraction, hiring, and retention of the best talent for vacant positions. We are dedicated to maintaining a fair hiring process that provides equitable opportunities to all our applicants and is guided by our company values.

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