System Operator / Apprentice

Northeast Missouri Electric Power Cooperative (Northeast Power) has an immediate opening for a System Operator at the Palmyra, Missouri location. Northeast Power is a transmission cooperative delivering power to northeast Missouri and southeast Iowa.

This is an hourly position and requires residency within 30 minutes of the Palmyra headquarters. The control room is staffed 24/7 and work is performed within a secure, confined area. Only applicants able to work rotating shift work, including days, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays should apply. Candidates will be required to hold or obtain a NERC System Operator Certification and complete on-the-job training tailored by Northeast Power.

Candidates without prior System Operator experience may be considered and, if selected, will be enrolled in an apprenticeship program lasting up to 60 months, depending on qualifications and experience.

What You Will Do:

This position is responsible for operating the electric transmission system using the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, overseeing voltages from 12.5 kV to 345 kV across Missouri and Iowa. You will work in real-time with field personnel to monitor, operate and secure the system safely and efficiently during both normal and emergency conditions. Responsibilities include:

·      Monitoring, analyzing and controlling the electric transmission system using SCADA

·      Coordinating and executing switching orders, outage schedules and system protection procedures (lock-out/tagout)

·      Creating personal protection zones for crews, issuing operating instructions and directing restoration efforts

·      Performing system studies to maintain power grid reliability and prevent overloads

·      Logging and maintaining records of system activity, including outages, breaker operations, weather and security checks

·      Managing after-hours calls from Member-Distribution Cooperatives, resolving outages and dispatching service personnel

·      Reporting and coordinating response to emergencies such as oil spills, security alerts or Mayday events

What We Are Looking For:

We are seeking a detail-oriented, safety-focused individual with strong analytical and communication skills who can perform reliably in a 24/7 control room environment. A strong understanding of electrical systems and computer proficiency are essential.

We are hiring for a System Operator, but candidates without direct System Operator experience may be considered for an Apprentice-level position. The ideal candidate will have:

·         High School Diploma or equivalent required; Prefer a two (2) year technical degree in electrical engineering or related technology

·         North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Certified System Operator Reliability Certification (RC) or Transmission Operator (TO) Certification required (or must be obtained within one year of hire)

·         Five (5) years of related experience preferred, or completion of Northeast Power’s Apprentice System Operator Program

·         Experience with SCADA systems, breaker operations, voltage control and outage coordination

·         Strong computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

·         Excellent verbal and written communication, organizational and decision-making skills

·         Ability to maintain composure during high-pressure situations and multitask with accuracy

What You Will Get:

Northeast Power offers a competitive salary and full benefit package including:

·         Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

·         Generous Retirement Plans

·         Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance

·         10 Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Leave Benefits

·         Opportunity to make a real impact in supporting reliable electric service to rural communities

This job posting will remain open until filled, with priority consideration given to those candidates who submitted their application by April 25, 2025.