Switchgear Operator

Job Description:

The Operating Switchgear Electrician (OS Electrician) is responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of complex electrical power distribution systems located in Switchgear areas Modules J & K. This full-time, on-site role requires advanced technical skills in operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining high-voltage electrical systems to ensure facility power reliability. OS Electricians must be available around the clock and are expected to work closely with utility providers and internal facility teams.

Primary/Major Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

• Perform continuous monitoring, operation, and maintenance of medium- and high-voltage switchgear and associated power distribution systems.
• Conduct manual switching, isolation, and restoration of utility and generator systems in response to outages, phase losses, or system instability.
• Read and interpret single-line diagrams to troubleshoot and isolate faults in real-time and restore critical services.
• Interface with Memphis Light, Gas & Water (MLGW) during power issues, switchovers, and restorations.
• Ensure proper integration and operation of UPS and standby generator systems during power events.
• Utilize SCADA systems (Wonderware) and other control software for monitoring and control of smart grid systems and Eaton UPS systems.
• Perform preventive maintenance and functional testing on electrical components as required by contract standards and manufacturer recommendations.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, especially NFPA 70E requirements for electrical safety in the workplace.

• Complies with applicable Federal, State and Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) environmental laws and regulations
• All certification testing of electrical power distribution equipment must be conducted by NETA-accredited or equivalent journeyman electricians.
• Testing of switchgear and breakers must be performed by an independent bonded testing firm specializing in this type of work.
• Work is restricted to the Switchgear areas located in Modules J & K.

Job Requirements:

• Current journeyman-level commercial/industrial electrician license issued by the State of Tennessee or other accredited licensing authority.
• Minimum of four (4) years of journeyman-level experience obtained within the past seven (7) years in:
  • Inspection
  • Testing
  • Troubleshooting
  • Repair
  • Operation
  • Preventive maintenance of complex electrical power distribution systems
• At least one (1) year of specialized experience and training in medium-voltage power system protection.
• Familiarity with operating and troubleshooting UPS systems and emergency power systems.
• Certified training in NFPA 70E (or equivalent).
• Experience in interfacing with utility providers and performing service isolation and restoration.
• Knowledge and hands-on experience with Smart Grid Systems, SCADA (Wonderware), and EATON UPS management software.
• All certification testing of electrical power distribution equipment must be conducted by NETA-accredited or equivalent journeyman electricians.
• Testing of switchgear and breakers must be performed by an independent bonded testing firm specializing in this type of work.
• Work is restricted to the Switchgear areas located in Modules J & K.