Substation Technician

Perform semi-skilled and skilled work in the installation, maintenance, repair and testing of digital, electronic, electrical and electro-mechanical equipment associated with the electrical power system; maintain responsibility for protective relaying, metering, control circuits, communications, EMS/SCADA, UPS and computers in substations and power plants; and assist with installation and maintenance of high voltage circuit breakers, transformers and field switches.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey level class in the Substation Technician series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Senior Substation Technician by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Progression to the journey level is contingent upon meeting specific requirements of the Utilities Department.

Regular attendance that is punctual and dependable.

Display honest, trustworthy, and ethical behavior when dealing with internal and external customers. 

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Participate in the construction and expansion of substations; construct foundations; install conduit, conductors, and ground mat; perform building modifications; establish final grade.

Participate in the installation of substation electrical equipment which may include structural steel, bus, conductors, switches, circuit breakers, transformers, PT's, CT's control panels, batteries, EMS/SCADA master, RTU's, battery chargers, UPS and communications circuits and equipment.

Construct, wire and test control and relay panels.

Test, repair and maintain substation equipment including transformers, load tap changers, tap changer control mechanisms, circuit breaker operating and interrupting mechanisms, potential devices and current transformers; work with operating mechanisms may include pneumatic, hydraulic and mechanical stored energy devices; work with interrupting mediums will include oil, SF6, vacuum and air.

Develop and maintain records of equipment installation and maintenance; computerize information as appropriate; prepare written reports regarding the status of substations and equipment.

Determine parts and equipment inventories necessary to ensure reliable substation operation; maintain the required inventories; account for materials used.

Observe all established safety standards while performing work; maintain work-related facilities and substation grounds in a safe and presentable condition.

Respond to service calls concerning plant emergencies or problems on a stand-by basis; work to reduce state of emergency and correct problems.

Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

Safe work practices.

General mechanical practices and techniques.

Principles of electrical, electronic and digital technology.

Mathematical principles.

Computer systems and related maintenance and repair requirements.

Uses and principles of electrical, electronic, digital and mechanical test equipment.

Correct usage of telephone and radio systems.

Substation maintenance and testing procedures.

Operation and maintenance of substation breakers and transformers.

Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations.

Ability to:

Repair, wire and construct electrical, electronic and digital equipment.

Interpret and work from schematics, blueprints, maps and other drawings.

Maintain up-to-date, well-organized records regarding work performed. 

Lift and move weights.

Perform work under adverse environmental conditions.

Operate engine driven construction and maintenance equipment safely and properly.

Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Interpret and apply Federal, State and local policies, procedures, laws and regulations.

Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience:

Prior experience with electrical substations or with the electronics associated with utility systems is required.

Training:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by formal training in electronics.

Salary : $41 - $50