Position DescriptionTacoma Power is currently hiring for Systems Power Dispatcher Candidate! Candidates are enrolled in Tacoma Power's Systems Power Dispatcher training program and must successfully pass the apprenticeship and obtain NERC certification for continued employment and appointment as a Systems Power Dispatcher.
Systems Power Dispatcher Candidates work rotating shifts, e.g. 7 on, 3 off, 7 on, 4 off, 7 on, 3 off, etc. rotating between day, swing and grave each shift cycle.
Systems Power Dispatcher Candidates learn and perform skilled work to insure the real-time safe, reliable and economic delivery of power to utility customers through the coordination and control of Tacoma Power generation, transmission and distribution electrical systems; maintaining system integrity and reliability during normal and emergency conditions by anticipating and responding appropriately to safeguard utility employees and the public through control of high voltage switching and electrical clearances; insuring operations meet NERC and WECC reliability standards; maintaining real-time balance between load and generation, appropriate frequency, interchange and operating reserves and by taking action to preserve the Interconnection up to and including manual load shedding.
Ideal candidates can stay calm under pressure, make sound, quick decisions, can collaborate with a team but take charge when the situation warrants it. Additionally, we're looking for people who are self-motivated, detail oriented, adaptable, and resilient.
QualificationsGraduation from high school or equivalent and:
- Successful completion of an electrical utility apprenticeship program
OR- Bachelor's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) or related field. Four (4) years of System Operations, Utility Operations, Power Marketing, or direct supporting roles can be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.
OR- Be a journey-level electrician working in an electrical utility system operating at 4 kV or above or military equivalent (Navy nuclear power, Army prime power, etc.)
OR- Three (3) years of experience in Power System Operations of an electric utility operating at 4 kV including but not limited to Power System Operator, Systems Power Dispatcher, Substation, or Generation Operator
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Valid driver's license at time of appointment and maintenance thereafter.
First Aid/CPR certification prior to completing Level 1 and maintenance thereafter.
Obtain NERC System Operator certification prior to completion of Tacoma Power's System Power Dispatcher Candidate training program with maintenance thereafter.
Knowledge & Skills- Electrical theory as applied to electrical circuits and power systems
- All applicable laws, codes, regulations, safety rules, policies and procedures
- Location of streets, roads, and substations within utility service area
- Effective oral and written communication skills, including English grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary
- Record keeping techniques using state of the art technologies
- Radio and telephone technique and etiquette
- Interpersonal skills, using tact, patience and courtesy
- Mathematics that includes algebra, geometry and trigonometry
- Learn the skills and tasks required of a Systems Power Dispatcher
- Understand and follow complex oral and written instructions in exact detail
- React quickly and efficiently in emergencies
- Learn the skills associated with operating a computer, electronic equipment and communication equipment
- Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others
- Observe proper safety rules and precautions
- Operate a variety of tools, machinery, and equipment
- Effective teamwork skills
- Detail oriented with the ability to multi-task
Selection Process & Supplemental InformationThis recruitment is being managed by Elise Drennen, if you would like to be notified of similar opportunities or stay connected with things going on at Tacoma Public Utilities and the City of Tacoma, connect with me on LinkedIn !
ApplyInterested individuals should apply online and attach a detailed resume and cover letter that includes job experience, major responsibilities and accomplishments related to this position.
Candidates will be evaluated and ranked on an eligibility list. This list is used for vacancies that occur at the City of Tacoma for one year.
This position is represented by Local 483.
Individuals given a conditional offer of employment must also pass a background check. May also be required to pass a Department of Homeland Security background check which must result in the issuance of a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). An employee in this classification is subject to passing an annual exam required for working in and around facilities and obtaining access to secure information.
Communication from the City of TacomaWe primarily communicate via e-mail during the application process. E-mails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk e-mail folders.
Tacoma Diversity and InclusionTacoma's diversity is its greatest asset. Tacoma embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. Communities of color and immigrant communities are fundamental to Tacoma's entrepreneurial spirit, workforce, and long-term success. In Tacoma, equity and empowerment are top priorities, meaning that all Tacoma residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. One of our goals is for the City of Tacoma workforce to reflect the community it serves. We actively work to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Our goal is for Tacoma to be an inclusive and equitable place to live, work, and play.
The City of Tacoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workplace. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.
If you have any questions regarding this posting, please contact the Human Resources Department at 253.591.5400.
The City of Tacoma provides excellent medical, dental and vision plans for the whole family; paid holidays and paid leave; participation in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System (alternate plan for Police/Fire); continuing education and advancement opportunities and a growing variety of City-sponsored health and wellness opportunities and incentives.
Medical Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.
Dental Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age26 or younger.
Vision Coverage: For eligible employees and their eligible dependents.
Paid Leave: City employees are entitled to received paid holidays, sick/vacation leave or personal time off (PTO), depending upon union affiliation and appointment type.
Insurance Plans: Employees are covered by a long-term disability plan. Short-term and expanded long-term disability insurance plans are also available to employees. The State Industrial Insurance Act also covers employees.
Deferred Compensation: Income can be set aside on a pretax basis and invested for supplementation of normal retirement income.
Retirement: All employees of the City, except members of the Police and Fire services, Tacoma Rail and certain project employees, are included in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System. Information on the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System can be found at www.cityoftacoma.org or by calling (253) 502-8200.
Other Employment Information
Direct Deposit: Employees are paid on a bi-weekly schedule by direct deposit.
Salary Increases: Based on satisfactory job performance, the City provides for a regular progression of salary increases for most classifications according to the salary schedule.
Union Affiliation: Many job classifications are covered by union security provisions which require union membership, dues, or payment of equivalent service fees.
Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.
Closing Date/Time: 8/7/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
