Switchgear Operator

Description

The Operating Switchgear Electrician (OS Electrician) is responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of complex electrical power distribution systems located in Switchgear areas Modules J & K. This full-time, on-site role requires advanced technical skills in operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining high-voltage electrical systems to ensure facility power reliability. OS Electricians must be available around the clock and are expected to work closely with utility providers and internal facility teams.

Primary/Major Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

Perform continuous monitoring, operation, and maintenance of medium- and high-voltage switchgear and associated power distribution systems.

Conduct manual switching, isolation, and restoration of utility and generator systems in response to outages, phase losses, or system instability.

Read and interpret single-line diagrams to troubleshoot and isolate faults in real-time and restore critical services.

Interface with Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW) during power issues, switchovers, and restorations.

Ensure proper integration and operation of UPS and standby generator systems during power events.

Utilize SCADA systems (Wonderware) and other control software for monitoring and control of smart grid systems and Eaton UPS systems.

Perform preventive maintenance and functional testing on electrical components as required by contract standards and manufacturer recommendations.

Adhere to all safety protocols, especially NFPA 70E requirements for electrical safety in the workplace.

Complies with applicable Federal, State and Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) environmental laws and regulations

All certification testing of electrical power distribution equipment must be conducted by NETA-accredited or equivalent journeyman electricians.

Testing of switchgear and breakers must be performed by an independent bonded testing firm specializing in this type of work.

Work is restricted to the Switchgear areas located in Modules J & K.

Requirements

Current journeyman-level commercial/industrial electrician license issued by the State of Tennessee or other accredited licensing authority.

Minimum of four (4) years of journeyman-level experience obtained within the past seven (7) years in:

Inspection

Testing

Troubleshooting

Repair

Operation

Preventive maintenance of complex electrical power distribution systems

At least one (1) year of specialized experience and training in medium-voltage power system protection.

Familiarity with operating and troubleshooting UPS systems and emergency power systems.

Certified training in NFPA 70E (or equivalent).

Experience in interfacing with utility providers and performing service isolation and restoration.

Knowledge and hands-on experience with Smart Grid Systems, SCADA (Wonderware), and EATON UPS management software.

All certification testing of electrical power distribution equipment must be conducted by NETA-accredited or equivalent journeyman electricians.

Testing of switchgear and breakers must be performed by an independent bonded testing firm specializing in this type of work.

Work is restricted to the Switchgear areas located in Modules J & K.