Distribution Automation Manager

Position Summary

The Distribution Automation Manager is a key position within Engineering that reports directly to the Director of Engineering. The Distribution Automation Manager is responsible for operation and reliability of CoServ’s SCADA system to ensure that the automation of the distribution system meets CoServ operational requirements and standards for functionality, reliability, and service quality. The Distribution Automation Manager is also responsible for other technical tasks as well as assisting electric operations. It also interfaces with other departments within the organization and outside contractors.

Primary Position Responsibilities

• Determines the necessary electric distribution and substation equipment to meet requirements for distribution automation and SCADA systems.
• Manages the overall operation of the Distribution System Automation equipment and SCADA system to ensure the highest state of readiness is achieved to support Operations
• Develops, recommends, and implements processes, standard operating procedures, and timelines for all SCADA responsibilities.
• Ensures Director of Engineering is fully aware of all SCADA activities under the manager’s direction. The Distribution Automation Manager is expected to lead all aspects of CoServ’s distribution automation efforts constantly moving it towards excellence related to engineering knowledge and application of related engineering practices and documentation.
• Performs and/or oversees preparation of deployment of automation enabled distribution equipment, coordinates communication equipment deployment for distribution equipment, maintains SCADA system including overall uptime, monitors SCADA system performance, and other specialized efforts related to the automation of the distribution system.
• Provides technical guidance and assistance as necessary to other departments within CoServ including the development of engineering research documents and ability of providing training to others on assigned items.
• Assists with the development of equipment standards and operational practices through research of regulations, laws, NEC, and NESC and maintaining knowledge of current technologies, manufacturers, and the power industry.
• Complies with established CoServ safety and operating rules, procedures and guidelines including reporting unsafe practices to a supervisor.
• Complies with established CoServ Information Security Handbook, policies, procedures, and guidelines including reporting suspected information security incidents to Tech Support.

Secondary Position Responsibilities

• Maintains department standards on a consistent basis.
• Creates and maintains accurate records for work performed by department.
• Mentors new engineering staff employees while promoting a high performance and learning culture.
• Establish, maintain, and improve relationships with the various departments that directly utilize or support automation equipment to ensure the appropriate focus is maintained.
• Promotes teamwork concepts and gets along cordially with customers and co-workers.
• Demonstrates self-motivation, ownership of job responsibilities, and being pro-active in seeking solutions for the department.
• Attends Engineering meetings and other duties as assigned by the Director of Engineering.
• Reviews SCADA department processes routinely and implements improvements for ongoing efficiency improvements.
• Performs other duties and activities as directed.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Develops annual budgetary requirements and justification for staffing, training, and equipment for assigned cost center.
• Trains subordinate employees on the various engineering studies performed ensuring all work done in the department is accurate and timely.
• Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and developing direct reports; assigning, setting expectations, and directing work; appraising performance; initiating, coordinating, and enforcing policies and procedures.
• Manages the SCADA department responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws and as directed by the Director of Engineering.

Position Requirements

Experience, Education and Certifications Required

• High School Diploma or G.E.D equivalency.
• Bachelor of Science from an ABET accredited university in Electrical, Civil, or Mechanical Engineering.
• Professional Engineer License.
• 8 years’ experience in electric utility power distribution.
• 3 years’ experience working for an electric utility with SCADA and engineering responsibilities.

Experience, Education and Certifications Preferred

• Engineering related continuing education credits.
• in electric utility power distribution.
• 5 years’ experience working for an electric utility with SCADA and engineering responsibilities.

Skills and Abilities Required

• Able to learn and gain knowledge and use of CoServ’s GIS and Engineering Analysis.
• Able to learn and gain understanding and utilization of NEC, NESC, IEEE, and OSHA requirements.
• Demonstrate knowledge of Distribution Automation equipment, communication systems, and network security requirements.
• Able to learn and gain knowledge in computer software including Microsoft Suite products.
• Demonstrates excellent grammar/composition skills and interpersonal/communication skills.
• Able to work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals with excellent interpersonal and communication skills representing CoServ in a professional manner including interfacing internally and externally to CoServ.
• Able to work efficiently and safely as well as plan and schedule own work and work of others.
• Able to maintain accurate records and be proficient with technical details.
• Demonstrates self-starting, organization skills, and ability to work with limited supervision.
• Able to prioritize projects.
• Able to concentrate and complete procedures in an error free manner.
• Is proficient with technical details.
• Demonstrates a higher level of independent judgment and responsibility.
• Understands and carries out complex oral and written instructions.

Skills and Abilities Preferred

• Ability to plan and oversee equipment deployment for distribution automation.
• Ability to provide solutions to various system issues such as low voltage, overloads, improving power factor, and improving coordination of protective devices.
• Ability to use engineering analysis and other software packages to make recommendations for various distribution automation solutions.

Physical Requirements

• Works both in the office and outdoors.
• Ability to lift a minimum of 25 pounds.
• Drives company vehicle as needed.
• Operates office equipment such as a computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.
• Ability to sit for long periods of time.
• Works in potentially hazardous conditions caused by pets and wildlife in or near the work site.
• Works in areas with possible exposure to poison oak, poison ivy, and insect stings.

Other Requirements

• Must have and maintain a valid Texas driver's license.