Will “Distribution Operator” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Manipulate controls to adjust or activate power distribution equipment or machines.

• Respond to emergencies, such as transformer or transmission line failures, and route current around affected areas.

• Prepare switching orders that will isolate work areas without causing power outages, referring to drawings of power systems.

• Control, monitor, or operate equipment that regulates or distributes electricity or steam, using data obtained from instruments or computers.

• Record and compile operational data, such as chart or meter readings, power demands, or usage and operating times, using transmission system maps.

• Inspect equipment to ensure that specifications are met or to detect any defects.

• Tend auxiliary equipment used in the power distribution process.

• Implement energy schedules, including real-time transmission reservations or schedules.

• Distribute or regulate the flow of power between entities, such as generating stations, substations, distribution lines, or users, keeping track of the status of circuits or connections.

• Track conditions that could affect power needs, such as changes in the weather, and adjust equipment to meet any anticipated changes.

• Coordinate with engineers, planners, field personnel, or other utility workers to provide information such as clearances, switching orders, or distribution process changes.

• Direct personnel engaged in controlling or operating distribution equipment or machinery, such as instructing control room operators to start boilers or generators.

• Calculate load estimates or equipment requirements to determine required control settings.

• Monitor and record switchboard or control board readings to ensure that electrical or steam distribution equipment is operating properly.