Relief System Operator

Kaukauna Utilities is seeking a dedicated and adaptable Relief System Operator (RSO) to join our Engineering & Operations team. This unique role combines System Operations (approximately 35% of the time) with Utility Technician duties (approximately 65% of the time), offering variety, challenge, and the opportunity to work across multiple areas of our utility.

The RSO ensures continuous quality electric and water service for our customers by monitoring and controlling systems, optimizing hydroelectric generation, and supporting maintenance operations. You will also step in for the System Operator during absences and provide hands-on assistance in the field.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities As a Relief System Operator (35% of annual hours), this person will:

- Monitor and control river levels and units to maximize hydro production.

- Monitor and control the electric and water distribution systems to provide customers with continuous quality service.

- Analyze interruptions on the electric and water distribution systems and take corrective actions to restore service.

- Address customer concerns (both internal and external) in a manner conducive to maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction here at the utility

- Facilitate switching procedures and direct system changes with field personnel.

- Schedule and coordinate maintenance energy requirements with the utility's power provider Wisconsin Public Power Incorporated (WPPI).

- Coordinate with the hydro generation team to conduct operational changes at hydro facilities as appropriate.

- Prepare and maintain system information, logs and reports.

- Confirm appointment schedules for field personnel.

- Notify customers of pending service interruptions.

- Manage outages (both electric and water), including customer communications, restoration team coordination, and operating the utility's Outage Management System (OMS).

As a Utility Technician (65% of annual hours), this person will

:

- Assist with the operations and maintenance of the utility's 9 hydro generation plants, substations, and other facilities.

- Maximize river flow through hydro-generators by clearing racks of all river debris, load and transport to disposal locations.

- Monitor and remove ice build-up on dams with use of specialized tools.

- Provide general housekeeping tasks at hydro generation plants.

- Assist with other departments as needed.

- Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

High School diploma or equivalent with additional technical school training in electrical power with course work in generation, transmission, and distribution or equivalent experience.

In lieu of education, one year of any combination of training and work experiences which directly relate to the generation, transmission and distribution of electric power or water systems will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

- Strong commitment to safety, customer service, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

- Ability to learn and apply knowledge of power generation, transmission, and water systems.

- Proficiency with Windows-based applications and computerized control systems (SCADA/OMS).

- Knowledge of safety hazards and precautions in electric and water industries.

- Ability to multitask, prioritize, and lead under pressure.

- Strong verbal and written communication skills.

- Ability to meet physical demands, including lifting 50–100 lbs and working in varied conditions.

- Must obtain/maintain First Aid & CPR certification within 90 days of hire.

- Must hold a valid Wisconsin Class A CDL.

Work Environment

- Both indoor and outdoor work in varying weather conditions.

- Exposure to machinery, moving parts, and operational hazards.

- Use of required personal protective equipment.

- Irregular hours including evenings, overnights, weekends, and on-call shifts

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a vital community utility while working in both high-tech system operations and hands-on field support. You'll be part of a trusted team that values safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

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