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, ARMS, DARTS and Arcos.

Please see video for an overview of how the Distribution Control Center (DCC) is as the center of Alabama Power.

https://vimeo.com/795397007/1f3678602e

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, Electrician’s 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 words
• 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.
• 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 within 50 miles of the Birmingham, AL work location.

Additional Testing Information

Candidates who meet the preferred hiring criteria will be invited to complete the SO/PD II Test. If selected, you will receive an invitation via email with further instructions. Please monitor your inbox (and spam/junk folder) for this communication.

Test Preparation Materials

To prepare for the SO/PD II Test, practice materials are available online. Please follow the steps below to access them:

Access the Practice Test 

1. Visit the EEI practice test website:
   http://www.eei.org/practicetests/
2. Log in using the following credentials:
   • Username: southern
   • Password: testing
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to locate and complete the SO/PD II practice test