City and County of San Francisco

Under direct supervision, the Assistant Power House Operator assists in the operation and maintenance of the electrical power conversion and substation distribution systems that furnish electric power for SFMTA electric transit vehicles, dispatches information and monitors the operation of SFMTA substations. Performs related duties as required.

This job code is the entry-level class in this series. This job code is distinguished from the 7364 Power House Operator job code in that the higher level 7364 Power House Operator functions at the journey level.

None.

According to Civil Service Commission Rule 409, the duties specified below are representative of the range of duties assigned to this job code/class and are not intended to be an inclusive list.

1. Assists in taking readings for temperature, kilowatt hour meters, pressure and circuit breaker counter readings and battery charge readings to ensure conditions are normal.

2. Inspects/checks on a regular basis, equipment and ground facilities and assists other personnel in the repair of equipment as needed.  This includes maintaining the equipment, surrounding grounds, and work area by cleaning such areas as necessary.

3. Assists in checking/inspecting all supervisory-controlled circuits, transformers and circuit breakers and records readings and operations of electrical equipment such as: ammeters, volt and watt hour meters, batteries, protective relays, valves, piping equipment, rectifiers, and pressure gauges in order to detect irregularities or malfunctioning equipment.  This includes inspection of outlying substations.

4. Under direct supervision, assists in Operating circuitry systems used in power conversion rectifiers of AC to DC, and auxiliary equipment including ventilators and battery chargers, to provide electrical power for the Municipal Railway system.  This includes operating via remote control devices such equipment.

5. Assists senior personnel in interacting with personnel in outlying stations, mobile units and other agencies to inform or alert them of emergencies, malfunctions or changes in service.  This includes driving to and from the outlying sub-stations.

6. Tests electrical equipment and alarm devices by operating or visually inspecting components to insure all are in proper working order.

7. Accompanies personnel from other agencies to take equipment readings and verifies the information taken.

Knowledge of: the generation, conversion, and distribution of electricity; mechanics of power generators; converting AC to DC; transmitting electricity; the function and operation of sub-stations and power houses and the machinery and equipment therein; methods and procedures necessary for the safe operation of powerhouse machinery and equipment; normal accident prevention, the use of protective clothing, and the specific procedures required when performing various operations including knowledge of hazardous materials and the proper method of handling them.

Ability to: read meters, gauges, and charts; read the indicators and interpret data; determine whether or not conditions are normal, machinery is functioning properly and/or whether the safety of personal, equipment and/or worksite is threatened; interact with people in a manner that demonstrates concerns for the individual and sensitivity to personal differences and feelings; maintain a professional manner and demeanor; follow through on promised actions; effectively deal with pressure and not let it negatively impact performance; speak in a precise, courteous, and understandable manner; listen with understanding and comprehension; use appropriate terminology when speaking about technical matters; use appropriate radio dispatching and telephone communication protocol; write clearly and effectively; appropriately document all relevant information related to job activities; maintain appropriate and accurate records of activities.

One (1) year of experience in the operation and maintenance of general mechanical and electrical plant equipment related to power generation or distribution (hydro, fuel or static included).

Substitution:  Six (6) semester units/nine (9) quarter units of coursework in basic electricity from an accredited college, university or trade school may be substituted for six (6) months of experience.

Possession of a valid class C driver license.

Nature of work requires incumbents to work in confined and noisy spaces such as around large generators and substation units; an ability to differentiate colors; and to work shifts, weekends, and holidays.

AMENDED DATE: 8/22/2014

All City and County of San Francisco employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.