Apprentice, System Controller (PWU) / Alectra Utilities

Apprentice, System Controller (PWU)

Position Purpose:

We're looking for a motivated Apprentice, System Controller eager to learn and grow under the guidance of experienced System Controllers. As an apprentice, you'll gain hands-on experience with operating, authorizing and directing the safe and reliable operation of the Alectra distribution system, setting the foundation for a rewarding career as a System Controller. This role will require you to work a 24/7 rotating shift schedule and be on an on-call rotation when fully qualified. Join Alectra and take the next step in your professional journey!

If you meet the following criteria, we welcome you to apply:

Education & Specialized Knowledge

• 3-Year College Diploma in an electrical discipline or equivalent
• Ability to obtain OACETT certification as a C. Tech or C.E.T.
• Valid class G driver’s license

Experience

• Ability to read, interpret and utilize technical prints and schematics
• Ability to multi-task and demonstrate analytical thinking, problem-solving and organizational skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Below is the job description of a System Controller. During your apprenticeship you will be trained on all aspects of the job progressively over the apprenticeship period.

Responsibilities:

• Operate, authorize and direct the safe and reliable operation of the Alectra distribution system under normal and emergency conditions on a 24/7 basis.
• Monitor, control, and record all activities on the distribution system.
• Prioritizes and reports deficiencies of all station/distribution equipment including SCADA and communication systems and conducts follow up as required.
• Maintain the distribution system configuration as designed/planned whenever possible.
• Review, accept and administer applications for Work Protection from internal and external work groups ensuring that all such applications are correct and that the requested isolation will provide adequate protection following the IHSA Electrical Utility Protection Code and Alectra procedures.
• Coordinates activities and outages on transformer station / transmission lines and distribution equipment with Hydro One/IESO and other Alectra departments to ensure all work is carried out in a safe, economic and efficient manner.
• Coordinate disconnects and reconnects between line crews, residential, commercial and key account customers for maintenance, upgrades and revenue issues including installation of micro-fits or embedded generation.
• Answering telephone calls from customers regarding inquiries, service requests and trouble reports and dispatch respondents as appropriate.
• Supporting the Outage Management function by performing such daily tasks as organizing and keeping an accurate record of interruptions and transfers, and checking and filing records including Orders-To-Operate, Operator Summary, schematics, etc.
• Manage outages using the Outage Management System for real-time statistical reporting and data analysis.
• Communicates with Management and members of the public to provide status of power outages and anticipated restoration times.
• Update GIS records, operating diagrams and other databases to reflect real-time distribution system configuration.
• Communicate with and prepare reports for various agencies including, ESA, MOE and MOL.
• Assists the System Control Supervisor in developing operational procedures and processes.
• Assist in the training and evaluation of System Control Apprentices.
• Perform analytical problem solving, trouble shooting and contingency planning of the distribution system.
• Respond to emergencies as defined in the Alectra Electrical Emergency Preparedness Plan (EEPP).
• Emergency switching and power restorations. Direct crews/supervisors to restore power safely.
• Emergency response to and from fire and police document times and assign crews/supervisor accordingly to adhere to OEB requirements. Responsible for a working knowledge and understanding of and make all efforts reasonable to work in accordance with and ensuring work is done in compliance with the appropriate safety legislation, EUSR rules, Alectra policies and procedures and safe work practices that apply to the work while adhering to the internal responsibility system. Reports any unsafe conditions or observed unsafe work practices using Alectra procedures.

Who we are

As the largest municipally owned electric utility in Canada, we are committed to growing, evolving and remaining innovative to build a sustainable and brighter future. Our values set us apart and are our fundamental beliefs about our organization:

Safety: Stay aware, prevent risks and protect each other.

Respect: Value everyone, act honestly and foster inclusion.

Customer Focus: Be reliable, anticipate needs and deliver exceptional solutions with care.

Excellence: Elevate performance, embrace diversity and deliver quality through collaboration.

Innovation: Drive growth by embracing change, creativity and continuous improvement.

Here’s why Alectra might be your ideal workplace:

• We offer comprehensive benefits. From health and wellness programs to financial security though our Defined Benefit Pension Plan – we offer a robust benefits package that supports you and your family.
• We invest in your career development. At Alectra, we care about our team’s future through offering ongoing trainings, mentorship and learning opportunities.
• We care about you work-life balance. Understanding that taking time off is essential to employee well-being, sustained productivity and high performance, we offer the following:
  • Time off: At Alectra, we offer various time off options for our employees including vacation time, personal days, milestone parental leave top-up, volunteer days and bereavement days.
  • Disconnecting from work: We prioritize your well-being through our “Disconnect from Work” policy which ensures you can maintain a healthy work-life balance.

At Alectra, your unique contributions matter and help drive our collective success to a more sustainable and brighter future.

Ready to Apply?

If this sounds like you and gets you excited, we’d love to hear from you! Simply click the apply button to submit your resume and take the first step toward joining our team. *Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to accept resumes via email. All applicants must apply through our careers page to be considered.*

• First consideration will be given to permanent employees in the PWU bargaining unit.

**As per the Collective Agreement, any permanent new hire in their bargaining unit must remain in their current position for at least twelve (12) months prior to commencing a new position.

At Alectra, we celebrate diversity and are committed to an inclusive recruitment process that honours the dignity and independence of all applicants. If you require accommodation during the process, please contact [email protected]. We will work with you to ensure your needs are being met to the point of undue hardship.

Thank you for your interest in building a career with us. While we appreciate all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Please note: We kindly request no unsolicited resumes or agency referrals. Alectra does not accept resumes from recruitment agencies for any open positions unless a valid contract is in place.