Power Distributors and Dispatchers - 51-8012.00

O*NET-SOC Description

Coordinate, regulate, or distribute electricity or steam.

DOT Titles Included in this O*NET-SOC Code

  • Feeder-Switchboard Operator
  • Load Dispatcher
  • Motor-Room Controller
  • Substation Operator
  • Substation Operator Apprentice
  • Switchboard Operator
  • Switchboard Operator
  • Switchboard Operator Assistant

Sample of Occupations in this SOC Family

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Accept and implement energy schedules, including real-time transmission reservations and schedules.
  • Calculate and determine load estimates or equipment requirements, in order to determine required control settings.
  • Control, monitor, or operate equipment that regulates or distributes electricity or steam, using data obtained from instruments or computers.
  • Coordinate with engineers, planners, field personnel, and other utility workers to provide information such as clearances, switching orders, and distribution process changes.
  • Direct personnel engaged in controlling and operating distribution equipment and machinery, for example, instructing control room operators to start boilers and generators.
  • Distribute and regulate the flow of power between entities such as generating stations, substations, distribution lines, and users, keeping track of the status of circuits and connections.
  • Inspect equipment to ensure that specifications are met, and to detect any defects.
  • Manipulate controls to adjust and activate power distribution equipment and machines.
  • Monitor and record switchboard and control board readings to ensure that electrical or steam distribution equipment is operating properly.
  • Prepare switching orders that will isolate work areas without causing power outages, referring to drawings of power systems.
  • Record and compile operational data, such as chart and meter readings, power demands, and usage and operating times, using transmission system maps.
  • Repair, maintain, and clean equipment and machinery, using hand tools.
  • Respond to emergencies, such as transformer or transmission line failures, and route current around affected areas.
  • Tend auxiliary equipment used in the power distribution process.
  • Track conditions that could affect power needs, such as changes in the weather, and adjust equipment to meet any anticipated changes.

Detailed Work Activities

  • adjust production equipment/machinery setup
  • clean equipment or machinery
  • compute production, construction, or installation specifications
  • confer with engineering, technical or manufacturing personnel
  • direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
  • inspect machinery or equipment to determine adjustments or repairs needed
  • maintain consistent production quality
  • maintain equipment service records
  • maintain or repair industrial or related equipment/machinery
  • maintain production or work records
  • monitor production machinery/equipment operation to detect problems
  • operate gas, petroleum, or power distribution equipment
  • perform safety inspections in manufacturing or industrial setting
  • prepare safety reports
  • read technical drawings
  • understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
  • use hand or power tools
  • use high voltage apparatus
  • use pneumatic tools
  • use pressure gauges