Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Powerhouse Mechanic (#20007393)


General Statement

Under supervision, performs skilled manual work in connection with the installation, maintenance and operation of all electrical equipment at the Lockport Powerhouse, including the Lockport Controlling Works.

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.

  • Installs, tears down, repairs, replaces parts, reassembles, makes necessary adjustments and generally maintains high and low voltage power and light circuits, motors, lighting fixtures, power and light transformers, high and low tension main and auxiliary feeder busses, switchgear, public address systems, control, indicating, operating and protective devices and wiring, and  similar electrical apparatus, machinery and associated computer hardware.
  • Inspects, cleans, blows out, lubricates and does similar maintenance work on motors and other electrical equipment, as assigned.
  • Checks and signs clearances for disconnecting or de-energizing electric circuits and equipment; places hold cards and restores electric circuits and equipment to service on completion of work.
  • Conducts work in a safe manner, performing all work in accordance with established safety practices.

 

Other Job Functions

  • Is responsible for the custody and care of all tools of the trade in performing powerhouse and controlling works electrical maintenance work.
  • Performs necessary rigging in handling equipment, and as required, operates cranes, hoists, and bar rack cleaners to expedite installation and repair, including maintenance work. 
  • Operates the Lockport Controlling Works sluice gates, as required.  
  • Relieves Power House Dispatchers and Electrical Operators, as assigned.
  • 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 at the controlling works and throughout the powerhouse facilities.     

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Considerable knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of the electrical trade, particularly as they relate to the generation and distribution of power and operating control systems.
  • Considerable knowledge of the national electric code and other relevant codes and regulations.
  • Considerable knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the work. 
  • Considerable knowledge in the repair, maintenance and operation of computerized control systems.
  • Ability to install, tear down, repair and replace powerhouse and controlling works equipment and apparatus.
  • Ability to read electrical blueprints and wiring diagrams.
  • Skill in the use and care of the equipment and tools of the electrical trade.
  • Skill in the troubleshooting of power generation and control systems and components.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Four or more years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a hydroelectric generating plant, or equivalent experience and training in a coal-fired electrical plant, nuclear power plant or other high voltage electrical power generating plant. 

Substitution

None

Promotional Requirement

  • None

CLASS: 20007393; EST: 1/1/1900; REV: 10/1/2022;