Distribution System Operator II

FLSA Exemption Status

Summary

Advertised through August 14, 2026

The Distribution System Operator (DSO) is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the electric distribution system.

This is technical utility operations work requiring progressively advanced knowledge, independent judgment, and leadership to monitor, control, operate, and restore energy distribution systems utilizing complex computer applications such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Energy Management Systems (EMS), and Outage Management Systems (OMS), Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI), and Customer Information Systems (CIS).

The DSO ensures compliance with applicable North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards such as Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP), Emergency Operations (EOP), and Protection and Control (PRC).

The DSO evaluates system conditions, troubleshoots abnormal situations, dispatches and directs field crews, executes switching orders, and coordinates restoration activities and system issues across the electric distribution system, as well as gas, water, wastewater, and telecom systems as applicable.

Positions allocated to this classification report to a designated supervisor and work under general supervision. Work in this class is distinguished by the responsibility to take independent action during routine and emergency operations, accurately assess system conditions, and safely coordinate field activities to ensure continuity of service to customers.

Examples of Work

Essential Functions:

Monitors and operates electric utility distribution systems using EMS, OMS, SCADA, and related applications in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and system requirements.

Evaluates system conditions, identifies abnormal or emergency situations, and takes corrective action to maintain system reliability and safety.

Performs routine and emergency dispatching and crew tracking using automated outage and crew management systems, including after-hours, weekends, holidays, and major events.

Coordinates the preparation, verification, and execution of switching orders, Work Clearances, and Hot Line Permits to support safe construction, maintenance, and restoration activities.

Dispatches and communicates with electric, gas, water, wastewater, and telecommunications crews to ensure timely, safe, and effective response to service interruptions and emergencies.

Analyzes AMI meter and system data to troubleshoot service issues, verify power quality, and support outage investigation and restoration.

Ensures strict adherence to operational processes, documentation standards, and applicable NERC Reliability Standards, including CIP and Emergency Operations.

Monitors physical security systems and reports observed or suspected security concerns to appropriate personnel.

Communicates professionally with supervisors, field personnel, and customers, assists with customer service requests, and responds reliably under emergency conditions.

Examples of Work (continued)

Non-Essential Functions:

May assist with training new or less experienced operators as directed.

May participate in drills, exercises, or special projects related to system operations and emergency preparedness.

Acts in absence of a supervisor.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education

High School Diploma or an acceptable equivalent diploma

Experience

Two (2) years of experience in energy distribution systems operations, including electric and/or gas distribution systems.

GRU Competencies

Role Specific Competencies

Certifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge of electric utility transmission, substation, and distribution operations.

 Working knowledge of methods, practices, and materials used in the operation, maintenance, and restoration of electric distribution systems.

Knowledge of electric theory as applied to electrical circuits, phasing, voltages, and meter types and classes.

Working knowledge of Energy Management Systems (EMS), Outage Management Systems (OMS), SCADA, and related applications.

Working knowledge of applicable NERC Reliability Standards, including grid security and operational requirements.

Working knowledge of gas, water, wastewater, and telecommunications systems as applicable.

Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety rules, and safe work practices related to utility operations.

Knowledge of City, Department, and Division policies and procedures.

Strong analytical, communication, and decision-making skills, with the ability to prioritize outage restoration and perform effectively in high-stress emergency environments

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (continued)

Physical Requirements

Environmental Requirements