Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Chief Powerhouse Dispatcher I (#20006275)

General Statement

Under general supervision, assists in supervising the operation and maintenance of a medium voltage distribution system at the Stickney Plant and affiliated outlying stations.

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 production and transmission of electric power by starting, synchronizing, transferring, switching and controlling generators, turbines and exciters.
  • Coordinates planned and unplanned outages and isolations.
  • Supervises the operation of high voltage circuit breakers and equipment associated with the production (if at Lockport Power House) and/or use of electric power.
  • Arranges for training by outside vendors.
  • Gives instructions to electrical operating personnel pertaining to the operation and regulation of electrical power equipment and reviews work of subordinate staff in the field.
  • In case of emergency, directs staff to take necessary action to remove lines and equipment from service or to return them to service.
  • Schedules regular and relief employees to ensure full, safe and efficient staffing.
  • Oversees the operation of computer terminals for control and monitoring of electrical equipment.
  • Assigns, supervises and reviews work; ensures staff compliance with District policies and procedures including Personnel Rules and Administrative Procedures; completes performance reviews; addresses employee complaints and grievances.

Other Job Functions

  • Oversees and documents the recertification of safety and voltage detection equipment.
  • Initiates requests for new or replacement tools and equipment.
  • May develop or review standard operating procedures for new or infrequently-used equipment or processes.
  • 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.
  • Considerable knowledge of the operating characteristics of synchronous motors.
  • Considerable knowledge of safety practices and procedures.
  • Knowledge of District collective bargaining agreements, policies and rules regarding staffing and discipline.
  • Some knowledge of motor driven and solid state exciters.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Ability to plan and supervise the work of others in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.
  • Ability to read moderately complex circuit and single line 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.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from a standard senior high school or the equivalent and eight years of experience in electrical operating work.

Substitution

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

Promotional Requirement

  • One year of experience with the District as a Powerhouse Dispatcher, Systems Dispatcher or Chief Electrical Operator.
  • Civil service status in one of the foregoing classifications. 
CLASS: 20006275; EST: 6/1/2018;