Relay Technician

Job Description

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this position is to perform maintenance, installation, testing, calibration, and troubleshooting on protective relay devices, control circuits, and related equipment needed in the operation of Wabash Valley Power Association’s electric transmission, substation, and mobile substation facilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Relay and Controls Maintenance: Inspect, test, and maintain protective relays, control systems, and associated equipment to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
• Relay Installation: Install new protective relays and control devices in accordance with technical specifications, manufacturer's guidelines, and industry standards.
• Testing and Calibration: Perform routine and periodic testing of protective relays to validate their proper operation. Calibrate relays to ensure accurate fault detection and response.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and troubleshoot relay malfunctions, control system issues, and related electrical faults. Identify and rectify problems to minimize downtime.
• Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of relay maintenance, testing, and repairs, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and documentation standards.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere to safety protocols and best practices to protect oneself and others when working on live electrical equipment. Stay updated on safety regulations and guidelines.
• Emergency Response: Participate in emergency response activities during power outages, storms, or other critical situations, assisting in the quick restoration of electrical service.
• Technical Expertise: Stay current with advancements in protective relay technology, control systems, and industry standards. Implement innovative solutions to enhance system reliability.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with other utility personnel, including engineers, electricians, and system operators, to optimize system performance and respond to issues effectively.
• Coordinates and monitors contractors’ activities when required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Knowledge of operation and theory of protective relaying systems and related equipment and their relationship to the overall operation of the transmission system.
• Knowledge of AC and DC electrical systems.
• Ability to comprehend and apply technical documentation, including but not limited to, substation instructions, electrical one-line diagrams, schematic and wiring diagrams, technical manuals, instruction books, construction drawings, electrical schematics, and LOTO.
• Ability to read, interpret, and mark-up complex substation drawings, single-line diagrams, AC/DC schematics, and panel wiring.
• Skilled in the use and application of various types of electronic equipment, including but not limited to relay test kits, multimeters, phase angle meters and personal computers to diagnose equipment problems and effect repairs, or to ensure proper performance of equipment.
• Knowledge of Substation and Transmission occupational hazards, safety, and standard work procedures required.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to manage assigned work responsibilities in an independent manner.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with others, both inside and outside the organization.
• Ability to think logically and independently to accomplish the goals of the organization.
• Ability to meet Company driving standards, including ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Will be required to pass all required Safety/Compliance courses related to substation entry, LOTO, etc.
• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Electrical Power Technology, Electronics Technology, or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution. Equivalent military training, completion of a recognized electrical apprenticeship, or an equivalent level of directly related relay protection and control experience may be considered in lieu of the degree.
• Five or more years of hands-on experience in electric utility environments, specifically with protective relaying, substation control, and transmission/distribution systems. 

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Electrical Power Technology, or Electronics Technology.
• Direct experience calibrating and functionally testing both electromechanical and microprocessor-based relays.
• The ability to develop test plans, interpret complex protection/control schematics, and troubleshoot distribution and transmission control circuits.
• NETA certification is a plus.

Additional Information

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
• Must be able to stand; reach with hands and arms, stoop and kneel.
• May be required to sit or stand for long periods of time.
• May be required to lift, carry, push, pull or move up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to report to various worksites and may be required to travel overnight to regional destinations.
• Must be able to drive/operate a company vehicle.
• Must be available for emergencies and overtime, as needed.
• Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Works indoors and outdoors at substations and other facilities in all weather conditions.