Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Systems Dispatcher (#20006271)


General Statement

Under immediate supervision of a Civil Engineer (Water Ways Control Division), during an assigned shift, directs and coordinates the operation of high voltage electrical transmission equipment that involves connections with the Commonwealth Edison Company and electric system of the District.

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.

  • In accordance with general and detailed orders, directs the proper interchange of power between public utilities and the District by communicating with utility Load Dispatchers and operating personnel at District facilities.
  • Issues detailed instructions to operating personnel for the safe operation and control of high voltage lines and equipment.
  • Maintains records of Holds and issues Holds and clearances on lines and equipment at District facilities through Operating personnel and in cooperation with public utility Dispatchers.
  • Issues orders to control distribution of loads on lines and equipment to prevent and equipment to prevent overloading or to redistribute loads in case of failure or impending of high voltage electrical apparatus.
  • Maintains written records of operations, loads, interruption reports, accident reports, lake and canal elevations, rainfall and other items affecting District operations.
  • Maintains normal elevations and operating parameters of the Chicago waterways system.
  • Issues instructions to operating personnel to control discharge of water at the Lockport Powerhouse, Lockport Controlling Works, and intake (or discharge) of water from (to) Lake Michigan at various facilities, for the purpose of flood control and to maintain safe operating elevations.

Other Job Functions

  • Initiates repair work or investigation of failures, breakdowns or other emergency conditions such as oil spills.
  • Acts as tour guide in Waterways Control Room.
  • Receives and disseminates information to proper authority regarding District operations, accidents, injuries, and weather information.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Environmental Conditions

Typical office environment.  May use standard office equipment and computer terminals.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from a standard senior high school or the equivalent and seven 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 Power House Dispatcher, Chief Electrical Operator or Electrical Operator II.
  • Civil service status in one of the foregoing classifications.

CLASS: 20006271; EST: 1/1/1900; REV: 7/1/2013;