Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Chief Electrical Operator (#20006251)

General Statement

Under general supervision or under operating orders of Systems Dispatcher, is responsible for the operation and maintenance of assigned electrical equipment at a pumping station, controlling works or substation.

Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Supervises the routine maintenance and operation of high and low voltage circuit breakers, disconnects, switches, motors, transformers, battery charger sets, generators, relays, exciters, pumps and similar equipment located in water reclamation plants and pumping stations.
  • Supervises the work of assigned personnel conducting switching operations, synchronizing line and generators, executing clearances and placing hold cards on high voltage lines and equipment, and restoring lines and equipment to service.
  • Inspects the operation of high and low voltage electrical equipment, and checks the flow of cooling water and lubricating oil.
  • Reads and records meters, gauges and charts at regular intervals and update log books.
  • Operates telephone, portable and base radio and general communication with other District personnel.

Other Job Functions

  • Supervises a crew engaged in cleaning electrical equipment at various locations; performs general housekeeping in control room, switch rooms, and in others areas.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Environmental Conditions

May involve exposure to a variety of operating mechanical equipment and loud noise and/or noxious odors.  May include working in all types of weather conditions throughout the plant facility and collection system.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Considerable knowledge of the functions of components in electrical circuits, with emphasis on protective devices.
  • Knowledge of the operating characteristics of synchronous motors.
  • Knowledge of motor driven and solid state exciters.
  • Ability to plan and supervise the work of others in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.
  • Computer literacy.
  • Ability to read moderately complex circuit diagrams.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical meters such as indicator, graphic, kilowatt and integrator types.
  • Ability to understand and interpret data in chart and graph format.
  • Ability to read and understand technical electrical material.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from a standard senior high school or the equivalent and five years of experience in electrical operating work related to the District's activities.

Substitution

Additional experience may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

Promotional Requirement

  • One year of service with the District as an Electrical Operator II or Powerhouse Dispatcher.
  • Civil service status in one of the foregoing classifications. 
CLASS: 20006251; EST: 7/1/2013; REV: 6/27/2022;