Distribution System Operator

Distribution System Operator (Birmingham, AL)

The Distribution System Operator (DSO) provides support to Distribution Operations, Customer Service Centers and Business Offices across Alabama Power Company’s service territory on a 365/24/7 basis. This position is based in Birmingham, AL.

This position is responsible for the effective monitoring and operation of the company’s electric distribution system. The successful candidate will be responsible for: writing and executing switching; directing emergency power restoration efforts; coordinating switching and operations with Distribution, Transmission and Substation groups as necessary; monitoring and operating the distribution automation system (SCADA); and interpreting data and information to take necessary action as needed. Various system applications are used such as ADMS, CSS, ARMS, DARTS and Arcos.

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Job Experience

• Experience as an Operator in a control room environment or closely related experience (i.e., utility, railroad, pipeline, oil/gas operations, etc.) strongly preferred
• Bachelor’s in engineering (ABET accredited) and/or the following job experience preferred
• Electric Utility Experience in Power Delivery Distribution / Transmission / Substation, Generation, and/or Operations a plus
• Military experience in Electrical Systems, Air Traffic Control, Navy Nuclear, Combat Control, Command Post, Tactical Air Control Party, Command & Control BM Ops, Space Systems, Electricians Mate, and/or Operations Specialist is a plus

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to learn, navigate, and effectively utilize complex computer systems and applications to execute job duties
• Ability to effectively coordinate and direct the work of others
• Ability to effectively establish work priorities and to plan work to meet established time frames
• Exceptional problem-solving, situational awareness and critical thinking skills demonstrated by the ability to interpret, evaluate, and analyze facts and information available, to form a judgement and take decided action
• Exceptional attention to detail while following established policies and procedures
• Excellent ability to work effectively under pressure and stress
• Positive influence on others and display a positive attitude
• Effectively interact with others as a part of a team effort and gain cooperation
• Ability to communicate well through spoken and written word
• Ability to monitor and control the activities and operation of multiple events simultaneously
• Demonstrated ability to effectively navigate through change

Other Requirements

• Must pass EEI SO/PD II (System Operator/Power Dispatcher) test
• Must pass Southern Company Distribution Operating Procedure assessment and be added to the Distribution Official Switching and Clearance List within the first 6 months of employment
• Ability to work a combination of 8, 10, and 12 hour rotating shifts (combination of day, evening, night, and weekend shifts)
• Will be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and be available for callout and holdover extra time
• This position requires participation and progression in an extensive Training Program (approx. 12 months) consisting of classroom training, field training, and On-the-Job training (OJT). DSOs are required to pass multiple assessments/tests administered throughout the training program. A maximum of three (3) attempts is permitted for each test. If the student fails their third attempt, they will be removed from the training program and cannot remain as a DSO.
• Due to the significant investment in your training, the time it takes to become proficient, and the critical nature of this role, we request your commitment to work in the Distribution Control Center for a minimum of 24 months.
• Distribution System Operators are subject to call out and must live with 50 miles of the Birmingham, AL work location.

Alabama Power provides safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to 1.5 million customers across the lower two-thirds of Alabama.

For more information, visit www.AlabamaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/AlabamaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/AlabamaPower), LinkedIn (Linkedin.com/company/alabama-power), and Instagram (Instagram.com/alabamapower).

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million residential and commercial customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy infrastructure company with national capabilities, a fiber optics network, and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability, we are taking action to meet our customers and communities needs while advancing our commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture and hiring practices have earned the company national awards and recognition from numerous organizations, including Forbes, Military Times, DiversityInc, Black Enterprise, J.D. Power, Fortune, Human Rights Campaign and more. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com.

Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant’s qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Job Identification: 6935

Job Category: Power Line Operations & Maintenance

Job Schedule: Full time

Company: Alabama Power