Power Supply Operator

The purpose of this journeyman level position is to safely perform operational duties related to District powerhouse, dam, pumping and waterway equipment, enabling the highest possible level of generation production, equipment reliability/performance, and personnel safety. Duties assigned will relate to the following equipment: turbines, governors, generators, pumps, motors, heavy and light mobile equipment, air compressors, HVAC equipment, dam structural equipment (including spillway gates, hoists and cranes).  Qualified candidates must have extensive experience in the operation of production/generation equipment and systems.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities are:

Starts, stops, synchronizes and adjusts voltage, load and power factor of District turbine/generator units and auxiliary equipment.

Operates and monitors plant electrical systems.

Maintains specified dam flows and water levels.

Reads and records instrument data. Accurately computes water flows. Prepares operating reports and maintains station records.

Operates and controls low, medium, and high voltage switchgear. This may require the use of hot sticks, insulated gloves, and other safety equipment as required by industry practice and regulation WAC 45. Operates and switches distribution voltage switchgear under the direction of dispatch personnel.

Operates heavy lifting equipment, including operation of 100 ton gantry crane for the lifting and adjustment of spillway gates at Box Canyon Dam.

Performs structural and equipment inspections of Box Canyon Dam, power plant and switch yard in order to detect failure or impending failure of structures or equipment.  Detection of any abnormality requires the taking of remedial action where possible and proper recording and reporting to responsible individuals. 

Works with maintenance personnel to establish clearance requirements.  Certifies and issues clearances and receives clearance releases for authorized work on equipment within realm of responsibility.  Performs required switching and tagging to safely secure equipment for maintenance.

Keeps a clear, concise and accurate log of activities during assigned shift to insure that matters of importance are properly conveyed to operators on subsequent shifts.

Maintains security of facilities and equipment through observation, use of available surveillance equipment and the proper locking of entry points.

Exercises tact, courtesy and diplomacy when interacting with the public in order to affect and maintain a good public image for the District at all times.

Requires thorough understanding of Production Lockout Tagout (LOTO) program and distribution clearance program. Will be required to administer LOTO program for Production facilities to safely remove equipment from service for maintenance purposes. Will also be required to operate and clear distribution equipment for the safe switching of equipment for line operations.

Operates radio, computer and telephone equipment for the purpose of receiving, sending or relaying information pertinent to maintaining effective operational and maintenance communications within the District.

When serving as relief operator, will fill vacated shifts created by other operators personal leave. Will conduct inspections and/or review operations at reservoirs, pumping plants, generating stations, distribution substations and at other District river sites and (or specific equipment) as directed.  When so assigned, will maintain communications with the shift operator at Box Canyon keeping him/her informed of itinerary and change of status of equipment, etc. When assigned the Calispell Power Plant, will start/stop, synchronize, adjust voltage, change jets, open or close needle valves, gate valves, etc., as necessary to assure maximum use of available water from Power Lake.  Will clean equipment and powerhouse, wiping up excess oil, etc.  Will add oil as necessary and grease appropriate fittings.  Will check Power Lake water level and record it as well as other appropriate data in station log and appropriate record form.

Trains or assists in the training of apprentice operators by providing guidance and instruction in all aspects of the operator program.

Responsible for maintaining positive, cooperative and professional relationships with all District personnel.

Assists in the preparation of written standard operating procedures.

Performs alone during many shifts and assignments. Must act autonomously, and make decisions in accordance with District policies and procedures. During many working hours, is solely responsible for the operation of District assets, including Box Canyon Dam.

Responsible for supervisions of apprentice operators when working on the same shift.

Under the requirements of WAC 45, responsible for the safety of personnel working under clearances issued by journey hydro operator.

Requirements

Vocational/apprenticeship training resulting in journeyman level operator skills that allow the incumbent to fully perform the responsibilities, essential duties and authorities described above.

Knowledge of and ability to correctly use appropriate safety practices in a utility setting, including (but not limited to): Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO), confined space entry, first aid/cardio pulmonary resuscitation, including Automated External Defibrillator (AED), etc.

Knowledge of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and all applicable Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) and Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA) regulations.

Ability to apply logical thinking to diagnose and solve practical problems without supervision, and to comprehend and effectively carry out instructions.

Ability to mathematically add, subtract, multiply, and divide; work with decimals and fractions; and understand and calculate measurements.

 Ability to read, analyze and comprehend relevant instruction manuals, construction drawings, electrical diagrams, blueprints, schematics, and maps in connection with the essential duties of the position.

 Ability to properly prepare required forms and reports.

 Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing.

Must be able to work the assigned 12-hour rotating shift.

Benefits

The District offers a competitive benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA for medical and/or dependent care, HRA VEBA, a variety of life insurance and ADD options, Deferred Compensation (401a & 457b), PERS, Short- & Long-term Disability, and a generous personal leave bank.

This position is a non-exempt union role, offering a hourly pay rate of $59.84 per the current collective bargaining agreement.