Join our team at East River Electric Power Cooperative! We are seeking a Power System Operator to join our team in overseeing the operations of the Cooperative's electric transmission power system in the 24/7 operations center. The role requires the ability to monitor and operate the Cooperative's electric power and load management system through the use of SCADA and telecommunications systems. This position requires a rotating shift work schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays.

East River Electric is a not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperative with a service area that covers 40,000 square miles. We deliver wholesale power to our members, which include 24 rural electric distribution cooperatives and one municipally-owned electric system in eastern South Dakota and western Minnesota. Our members, in turn, power the properties of the member-owners in their service territories. We believe cooperatives help build stronger communities. The four Touchstone Energy® Cooperative values of integrity, accountability, innovation and commitment to community are our foundation. These values represent the cooperative difference and why our members trust us to provide reliable and affordable power and service every day.

Our Cooperative Community

As a cooperative, we do things differently! The decisions we make are made with our members in mind. We've built our foundation on Touchstone Energy's four cooperative values: integrity, accountability, innovation, and commitment to community. These values represent the cooperative difference, which is why we value things like community outreach, teamwork, and work-life balance.

This incredible job opportunity awaits you at our main campus in Madison, South Dakota. Madison offers a warm and welcoming small-town atmosphere combined with modern amenities that make it the perfect place for you and your family. Take advantage of great resources like the state-of-the-art Madison Regional Hospital, experience the innovative campus of Dakota State University, enjoy a thriving community center, and more.

What You'll Accomplish

As a valued member of our team, you'll have the opportunity to make a difference every day. Your education, skills, and experience will be put to excellent use, contributing to our mission of delivering exceptional wholesale power to our members. You'll work alongside passionate professionals who embody the cooperative values of integrity, accountability, innovation, and commitment to community. We believe in investing in your growth and development, which is why we offer paid training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career. In this position you will:

• Analyze system troubles and initiate necessary action to restore normal operations.
• Write, review and coordinate switching and dispatching operations between the Cooperative and other utilities.
• Monitor and respond to emergency calls and coordinate appropriate emergency response resources.
• Execute load control in accordance with established load management strategies.
• Analyze operational information, complete reports, and maintain records.

Showcase Your Knowledge, Abilities, and Expertise. Do you have?

• A degree in electrical technology, system operations, or related technical field.
• Five years' experience in the operational aspects of an electric utility. (Equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered.)
• Ability to work effectively in high stress situations and make decisions in a timely manner.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to develop positive working relationships.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer systems and MS Office products.

Benefits that Matter

At East River, we value your well-being and want you to thrive. That's why we provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Retirement pension plan and contribution to a 401(k) savings plan
• Medical insurance with employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid training and development opportunities
• Access to a wellness program and financial planning resources
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays

Want to learn more about East River? Visit our website's career pages and hear what our current employees have to say.

Questions? Contact hr@eastriver.coop or (605) 256-4536.

Applications accepted through December 7, 2023. Interviews will be scheduled as soon as possible after the closing date.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

All positions are subject to a post-offer, pre-employment background check and drug screen. Some positions may be subject to a job-based physical exam. 

About East River Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.

East River Electric is a not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperative. Our main campus is located in Madison, South Dakota and we also operate eight regional service centers. We deliver wholesale power to our members, which include 24 rural electric distribution cooperatives and one municipally-owned electric system in eastern South Dakota and western Minnesota. Our members, in turn, power the homes, farms, schools and businesses of the member-owners in their service territories. East River exists to enhance the value of our members by providing power, information and innovation. As an electric cooperative, we’re guided by the cooperative principles that govern all co-ops.

Connections working at East River Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.