Automation Technician

OVERVIEW:

Under the general direction of the Automation Engineer, will support Guyana Power & Light Inc. (GPL) system operations by generating Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) reports, conduct maintenance on all SCADA Database, consoles and relays at the various substations.

This role requires an individual with an interest in Automation systems and the ability to be an active team member within the System Controls & Operation Department. The role is expected to be field-based. The individual will be expected to undertake training that will be provided in order to assist the development of the specialized skills needed for the Department.

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS:

• Develop/modify/debug of new and existing data interfaces to GPL’s Automation system.
• Conduct monthly maintenance activities on all SCADA related devices at the various substations.
• Use software technologies queries to develop and maintain small and medium applications, components, Web or desktop clients, or back-end data services.
• Participate in application testing and commissioning including substations.
• Maintain an inventory of spares, test instruments and tools required for system maintenance.
• Participate in maintenance and troubleshooting of in-house developed and ready-made applications.
• Use tools and environments, e.g., specific tools, integrated tool environments including the associated architectures, databases, Web, and parallel and distributed processing tools.
• Assist in commissioning activities of all systems involving tele-control equipment.
• Conduct daily checks of tele-control system to ensure its integrity.
• Update the as-built drawings for all tele-control systems.
• Participate with Automation Engineers in assessing system security compliance.
• Perform other assignments as necessary to implement and achieve (SCADA) section goals.
• Participate in Information Technology (IT) Projects.
• Documentation of developed software systems.
• Participate in Quality Assurance and standardization issues.
• Assist in gathering and extraction of data for technical reports to be conducted by the Automation Section.
• Participate in application systems security, backup and crash recovery of application systems.
• Perform other duties that may be assigned to you within the scope of your employment, from an 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

• Diploma in Electrical/Mechanical/Engineering or Communication/Information Technology from the University of Guyana or its equivalent from an accredited institution plus three (3) years relevant experience.

OR

• Technician Diploma in Electrical/Mechanical/ Engineering or Computer Science from the Government Technical Institute or its equivalent from an accredited institution plus Five (5) years relevant experience.

Note: Experience in SCADA would be an asset.