Systems Operator I, II, or Senior Location: Rapid City, SD, United States Job ID: 35340 Date Posted: Aug 20, 2024 Position will close at 12:00am CT on Sep 20, 2024 Salary: $ 92500 to $ 152450 Annually Share: share to e-mail Apply Now > Job Description Job Specifications Black Hills Energy is people powered and purpose driven. Our team uses the power of energy to improve life for over one million customers in 800+ communities across the West and Midwest. We seek talented, caring people who embody our core values and contribute to a culture of inclusion and growth. As an organization, we believe the best part of working on our team is our commitment to making tomorrow better than today—for our customers, communities and each other. Position summary: The System Operator will independently operate Black Hills Energy's distribution and sub-transmission or transmission electrical facilities systems expertly, efficiently, and in accordance with applicable procedures and reliability criteria. Successfully complete all phases of Black Hills Corporation's System Operator Training Program and pass the NERC System Operator Certification Exam. Demonstrate ability to monitor and safely direct the operation of Black Hills Corporation's (BHC) distribution and sub-transmission or transmission system. Pay Range:This posting includes the full pay range for this position. Pay is based on a number of factors and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity. System Operator I:$69,350 - $104,000 System Operator II:$82,550 - $123,800 System Operator Senior:$92,500 - $152,450 Reporting Relationship:Systems Operator Supervisor Location:Our Corporate Headquarters in Rapid City, South Dakota Relocation Assistance:Relocation assistance is available based on individual circumstances! Details to be shared during the offer process. Essential Functions: • Implement real-time actions to ensure the safe and reliable operation of BHC’s electric distribution and sub-transmission or transmission system. • Ensure BHC electric system reliability, security, and safety by writing and implementing accurate switching, clearance orders, and restoration steps during both planned and unplanned activities. • Monitor power system equipment, ensuring proper operation within capability of equipment. Initiate corrective action as necessary to achieve or maintain these limitations. Take immediate remedial action to safeguard public safety and prevent overload or damage to equipment. • Maintain strict compliance with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), and Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) standards and operating policies for system reliability and performance criteria after obtaining NERC Certification. • Obtain proficiency in using key information technology systems such as SCADA, OMS and other tools to monitor, perform analysis and control the electric power system. • Ensure that operational and electronic mapping tools are accurate and reflect current and correct real-time state of the electrical distribution and sub-transmission or transmission systems. • Maintain a complete and accurate record of all communications and operator actions during the shift. Document system failures, mis-operations, disturbances and unusual conditions in the daily log. • Promote safety through training, inspections, meetings, and safety contact reports. Exhibit an awareness and concern for safety. Understand, observe and show skill in the application and implementation of safety rules, practices and safe work behaviors. Promptly correct any conditions and/or unsafe behaviors that may lead to accidents. • Complete all system operator training plan requirements and coursework within 18 months. Additional Responsibilities: • Initiate preliminary investigation of system disturbances and complete disturbance reports. • Provide operational support during large outages and emergency situations. • Ensure that appropriate company personnel are advised of any actions taken, or problems that have occurred, in their areas. What You'll Need: System Operator I: • High School Diploma or equivalent • 0-2 years relevant experience • Valid NERC System Operator Certification or ability to acquire NERC Certification within 1-1/2 Yrs System Operator II: • High School Diploma or equivalent • 1-3 years of electric utilities experience • Valid NERC System Operator Certification Upon Hire • Valid NERC System Operator Certification or ability to obtain NERC Certification within 8 months of employment. System Operator Senior: • High School Diploma or equivalent • 3 or more years of experience in electric utilities • NERC System Operator Certification Upon Hire What Is Desired Or Can Be Taught: • Ability to physically respond to the Reliability Center within 60 minutes of contact when needed for emergency assistance. • Knowledge of electric generation, electric transmission and/or electric distribution. • General knowledge of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, basic principles of physics, including electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC theory, and the fundamentals of power flow. • Knowledge and understanding of high voltage electrical utility operations and equipment. • Knowledge of NERC and WECC regional procedures, government regulations, contractual agreements, operating policies and procedures, and equipment specifications. • Attention to safety. • Ability to exercise good judgment and make informed decisions. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. • Strong digital literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and web-based applications. • Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail, accuracy, and timeliness. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. • Ability to cope with and respond to stressful conditions. • Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts. • Ability to participate in an after-hours on call rotation. • Ability to use fluent English language and writing on-the-job. This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply. About our Company:We are a customer, growth and safety focused utility company that is dedicated to our communities. We improve life with energy as an energy partner of choice. Our diverse culture fuels unique perspectives, opening doors to new insights and possibilities. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, we have over 3000 employees and serve 1.3 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Arkansas). Enjoy our Comprehensive Benefits Package! Annual discretionary bonuses, 401(k) (6% company match and up to 9% company retirement contribution), tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off benefits, including paid holidays and parental leave, company paid life insurance and disability benefits (short and long term), an employee assistance program and well-being benefits, and competitive medical, dental and vision insurance. Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check. Black Hills Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran. If you require reasonable accommodation, please visit careers.blackhillsenergy.com for more information. Wage: 92500 to 152450 Share: mail Apply Now >