Electric Substations & Controls Supervisor

Performs difficult technical and administrative work supervising the activities of the substations and related communications equipment in the electrical distribution system. 

Distinguishing Features of the Class

This employee plans, organizes and supervises the electric substation operations, maintenance, repair and upgrades. The employee researches and plans work projects to maximize system efficiency and effectiveness. Work involves determining priorities, assessing damage to electric components and plans for reconstructing them, instructing crew members on the design for repair and replacement of electric substation, communications and electronics components.  Work includes hiring participation, training, and performance coaching and evaluation for assigned staff and budget development and administration. The employee is subject to work in both inside and outside environments, extreme temperatures and exposure to hazards associated with electrical line work.  Work is performed under general supervision and is evaluated through periodic conferences, observation of results achieved, and review of records, and files. 

Plans, organizes, supervises and participates in monitoring, testing, maintaining, repairing and upgrading SCADA and substation system including planning, priority setting, determining design of repair work and construction of new components.

Coordinates the installation, repair and maintenance of the substations with the direction of the consulting engineers and substation component suppliers. 

Coordinates the expansion, repair and maintenance of the SCADA system.

Works with management and consulting engineers to develop long range and capital plans.

Oversees the use of resources including the effective use of personnel, equipment and materials; projects capital and operating budget needs; evaluates programs and investigates new efficiency methods; obtains quotes for equipment and projects; acquires necessary equipment, technology, tools and materials to avoid work delays.

Directs safety and training programs for the substation crew and ensures proper safety precautions.

Writes new files for substation remove terminal units (RTUs) and SCADA programming.

Updates substation drawings and maintains accurate data for new developments; oversees input of various testing results and readings and preparation and maintenance of necessary records and reports for effective management decision making and regulatory compliance.

Reviews protective relay files and event records to determine proper operation of relays and breakers.

Participates in troubleshooting and planning repairs to the system.

Participates in the hiring and provides training, mentoring, performance coaching and review for assigned staff.

Consults with other distribution system staff on voltage and load issues.

Supervises and participates in maintenance of generators and standby and peak shave switchgear.

Researches and plans necessary changes resulting from federal, state and safety rules.

Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of electric distribution and substation systems.

Thorough knowledge of the equipment and materials used in the construction, maintenance and repair of substations, metering and SCADA systems and related equipment.

Thorough knowledge of electrical and electronic devices such as circuits, switches, breakers, wiring, etc.

Thorough knowledge of the occupational hazards and related safety practices involved in

construction, operation and maintenance of an electrical substation system.

Considerable knowledge of modern and effective supervisory principles and practices including leadership, motivations, communications, team building, mentoring, performance coaching and evaluation, and training.

Considerable knowledge of the application of information technology to the work of the department.

Knowledge of City budgeting, purchasing and personnel policies and procedures.

Working knowledge of personnel laws and regulations related to employment and safety.

Skill in customer service excellence, teamwork and collaborative conflict resolution.

Ability to perform long and short range planning.

Ability to read and interpret technical engineering designs, drawing, and specifications related to electrical distribution work.

Ability to prepare complex records and reports.

Ability to maintain effective working relationships with public officials, employees, contractors, utility companies, contractors, management, and the general public.

Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.

Desirable Education and Experience

Graduation from a high school and training  in electrical technology, engineering, or related field and considerable experience in an electrical utility, preferably including some field work experience at the level of a supervisor or 40 hours of supervisory training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.   A.A.S. degree in electrical or electronic engineering technology or an equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.

Special Requirement

Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.

Possession of Advanced Substation Repair and Maintenance certification. 

Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions. Must be able to perform very light work exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Must possess visual acuity to inspect plans, designs, and written reports; prepare figures and data; use measurement devices; and operate various equipment, computers, and motor vehicles.