Automation Engineer

OVERVIEW:

Under the general supervision of the: Senior System Operations Engineer, the incumbent will be responsible for executing the general managerial functions associated with the position of System Operation Engineer as it relates to the System Control and Operations Department. The incumbent will also play a critical role in the operation and maintenance of the power system. The primary responsibility is to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the power system. This role is also responsible for coordinating with different shifts and other department’s activities, such as maintenance, planning, and dispatching, to ensure efficient operation. The incumbent must communicate effectively with other engineers and managers to coordinate activities and resolve issues related to the grid.

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS:

• Monitor and control the DBIS during assigned shift, that is:
• Direct switching exercises
• Dispatch available power in accordance with sound Power Engineering Principles.
• Put alternative measures in place in abnormal system condition.
• Maintain an acceptable quality of electricity.
• Monitor the Daily Load Curve and feeders Demand.
• To verify all safety measures are put in place prior to the commencement of Medium or High Voltage maintenance to:
• Confirm that isolation is properly done, and the respective earthing is put in place.
• Confirm that safety documents are issued to record pertinent details.
• Ensure that all safety measures in restoring the System are adhered to.
• To ensure that the “quality” of supply to consumers is maintained in accordance with the National Grid Code by utilizing the appropriate SCADA tools (State estimator, Transmission or Generation contingency analysis etc.)
• Ensure that generation is dispatched in an efficient manner using the appropriate SCADA tools (AGC etc.).
• Report to the Senior System Operations Engineer and/or System Control & Operations Manager any loss of transmission lines, Generation capacity or line plants.
• Inform the Public Relations Officer/Customer Services Department of Network interruptions- planned and emergency.
• To facilitate, based on approval, the release of equipment, lines and generating plants for schedule or unscheduled maintenance.
• Co-ordinate/perform system restoration in event of any system disturbance or shutdown.
• Produce Daily Shift Reports on the DBIS Operations KPIs such as SAIDI and SAIFI etc.
• Ensure that adequate training is given to Dispatching Engineers and Operators in the use of the various automation tools such as SCADA, EMS, GMS and DMS.
• Report all abnormalities encountered with the SCADA, EMS, GMS and DMS platform to the Automation Unit in a timely manner.
• Solve and /or report obstacles, which may arise and affect the section’s performance to the Senior Operations Engineer.
• Provide a preliminary report for system shutdowns and disturbances from a System Control’s Perspective.
• Support the company’s safety programs by following the OHS procedure within the section.
• Perform other duties that may be assigned to you within the scope of your employment, from the Senior Operations Engineer or System Control and Operations Manager or authorized officer.

COMPETENCY PROFILE:

• Knowledge of utility systems and operations including power flow analysis
• Knowledge of interconnected system operations.
• Knowledge of Power generation technology and high voltage transmission systems.
• Knowledge of the principles of control and monitoring of electrical power systems and generation dispatch.
• Be conversant with the OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT CHAPTER N0 32 OF 1997, ELECTRICITY SECTOR REFORM ACT CHAPTER 57:01 OF 1999, ENVIROMENTAL PROTECTION ACT NO 11 0F 1996 of the laws of Guyana, and the Guyana Power & Light License which include the STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR ELECTRIC SERVICES of March, 31-2002.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Power or Electrical Engineering from the University of Guyana or its equivalent from an accredited institution with a minimum of Three (3) years’ experience. Engineering experience is an asset.