About us

National Grid is hiring an Associate Operator for our Electric Control Center department in Northborough, MA.

Every day we deliver safe and secure energy to homes, communities, and businesses. We are there when people need us the most. We connect people to the energy they need for the lives they live. The pace of change in society and our industry is accelerating and our expertise and track record puts us in an unparalleled position to shape the sustainable future of our industry.

To be successful we must anticipate the needs of our customers, reducing the cost of energy delivery today and pioneering the flexible energy systems of tomorrow. This requires us to deliver on our promises and always look for new opportunities to grow, both ourselves and our business.

Job Purpose

The Distribution System Operator monitors and maintains the electric distribution system by documenting system conditions, troubleshooting, and directing the maintenance or repairs of system equipment. This position requires high levels of attention to detail, motivation, and accountability, to deliver excellent performance in monitoring, switching, and restoring the substation, sub-transmission, and distribution high-voltage electric systems in New England. The ability to analyze problems while under stress is expected, and effective communication and team work is required as Operators generally work together in groups of three or more. Once hired, new Operators will receive comprehensive classroom and on-the-job practical training for this role. Trainees must pass multiple written and oral assessments to progress from an entry level Associate Operator position to the role of Control System Operator, with scheduled salary increases attached to each progression.

Key Accountabilities

• Reconfigure the distribution electric network by communicating with field personnel, as well as utilizing the remote SCADA system, to facilitate:
• Planned maintenance on high voltage electric equipment.
• Emergency restoration during unplanned system events (e.g. inclement weather).
• Receive and respond to high priority Police & Fire and customer calls as needed.
• Analyze trouble orders, establish priorities, and dispatch personnel as required.
• Be proactive in communicating with various stakeholders within the Company.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of control center logs and reports.
• Demonstrate proficiency in applicable safety procedures.
• Adapt to 12-hour, rotating shifts, with flexibility to change schedule when needed during weather events and other emergencies.
• Contribute to the team by signing up for planned overtime shifts as needed, providing coverage for other operators’ vacation, sick, and parental bonding time.

Qualifications

• 2-year or higher Technical Degree or 4 years equivalent experience preferred.
• Electric or gas utility experience preferred.
• Candidates must successfully pass an aptitude assessment and a background check.
• Must have working knowledge of basic computer software (e.g. Microsoft Office suite).
• Ability to assimilate data from a variety of sources and quickly formulate and execute action plans during high periods of stress.
• Ability to collaborate within a team environment as well work independently.
• Excellent written communication, oral communication, and inquiry resolution skills.

More Information

This position has a career path which provides for advancement opportunities within and across bands as you develop and evolve in the position; gaining experience, expertise and acquiring and applying technical skills. Candidates will be assessed and provided offers against the minimum qualifications of this role and their individual experience. As an Associate Control Center Operator, you will be required to successfully pass the Electric Distribution Control Center Training Program, including the assessments and/or tests that are administered. Progression is required through all training levels. Please be advised that unsuccessful completion or failure of the required program including the tests may lead to disqualification and separation.