Associate System Operator

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. Consumers Energy knows job number one is to keep the lights on for customers. We are committed to delivering reliable, clean, and affordable energy to our customers 24/7. 

Location: This position is onsite at the Parnall East located in Jackson, MI. The selected candidate must be within a commutable distance or willing to relocate (relocation package is available for those that qualify). 

General Summary of Job Responsibilities

The Associate System Operator is an entry-level Control Room position that will learn and demonstrate proficiency on all the tasks required to safely operate the electric grid as described in the Electric Control Center Manual (ECCM). Within the first 12 months, the Associate System Operator is training to obtain a HVD or LVD certification.After obtaining certification, Associate System Operators will be able to independently monitor, analyze and control CE's electric grid 24/7 to ensure system reliability and timely customer restoration in accordance with all applicable ECCM procedures, NERC standards and regulatory requirements. Associate System Operators are responsible for CE's High Voltage Distribution (HVD) and Low Voltage Distribution (LVD) Substations and Lines, Metro Underground Distribution Network, Grid Automation Schemes, and interconnection points with Generation and Transmission providers for both normal and emergency conditions. Associate System Operators administer switching and tagging orders and issue worker conditions, clearances and/or protections in accordance with the ECCM. Associate System Operators utilize SCADA systems to monitor, analyze and control the electric system remotely.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Respond and direct field resources during emergent outages on the electric system; conducts necessary activities to support customer and equipment restoration as required per the ECCM.
• Successfully complete all HVD Operator certification or LVD Operator certification training requirements which includes classroom training, OJT assessments, and simulator tests in 12 months or less.
• Administer all types of scheduled outages on the electric system; directs field personnel when removing/returning electric equipment from/to service, and issues the appropriate working conditions, clearances and/or protections as required per the ECCM.
• Utilizes SCADA and computer systems required to perform System Operator duties; Operates SCADA devices remotely when required.
• Reviews scheduled and emergent switching and tagging orders for accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain a HVD or LVD certification; successful completion of all continuing training requirements.
• Position works a rotating 24/7 shift including nights, weekends, and holidays; includes a on-call assignment. Fill open shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays to maintain minimum control room staffing levels; Overtime necessary at times to support system and customer restoration.
• Other duties as assigned or may be necessary

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Ability to read and interpret complex prints and maps.
• Basic understanding of department policies and procedures.
• Ability to independently write, approve and execute switching and tagging orders of various complexities.
• Knowledge of the various field work groups and associated responsibilities.
• Ability monitor and analyze SCADA systems and operate devices when needed in a timely manner.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to operate a control room console independently with limited supervision in normal or emergency situations.
• Strong communication skills (verbal, email, radio, phone, etc.)
• Ability to remain calm in stressful and fast-paced situations.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a technical related field and 2 years of technical experience
• [OR] Associate's degree in technical related field and 4 years of technical experience
• [OR] High School Diploma/GED with 6 years of working experience related to the position.

Certifications

• Required Certifications/Licensures:(Obtain Consumers Energy LVD or HVD Certification within the first 12 months.)

Commitment Period

Due to the training involved in getting you fully functional in your new role of Associate System Operator upon accepting this position, you will be ineligible to apply for an internal job posting outside of the department during the first 36 months (i.e., commitment period).

Why should you join our team?

At Consumers Energy, we offer more than just a place to work. We foster a culture that supports career development, growth, and stability, and we take pride in offering our co-workers excellent benefits and compensation packages. We are deliberately creating an inclusive culture that makes our diverse team of co-workers feel valued, supported, and empowered every day. We're a company made up of thousands of people, all with different stories to share and work to do, but we stand united in our company purpose: world class performance delivering hometown service.

What we offer:

• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, Dental and Vision
• 401k with company match
• Paid parental leave
• Up to 13 paid Holidays
• Paid time off
• Educational Assistance Program

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:

We, at CMS Energy, value Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. It is part of our DNA. We treat our employees with respect, we treat each other fairly and we value the opinions of others. We are passionate about building and nurturing an environment where everyone feels included. We don’t discriminate. We seek to learn about each other and better understand our unique differences. Our uniqueness makes us authentic. We create safe spaces where everyone can be who they truly are. We invite difficult conversations and uncomfortable topics. We value diverse perspectives; this is what makes us great together. We harbor an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to share their backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. Our Employee Resource Groups, Women in Energy (WE), Minority Advisory Panel (MAP), Pride Alliance of Consumers Energy (PACE), GENERGY, capABLE, Interfaith and Veterans Advisory Panel (VAP) are key enablers to living the values of our company culture: Caring, Empowered, Deliberate, Agility, and Ownership.

All qualified applicants will not be discriminated against and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.