System Operator Trainee (I), II, III or Senior

Under general supervision, performs duties associated with the efficient and economic operation of the electric utility in accordance with the North American Electric Reliability Cooperation (NERC) and Reliability Coordinator requirements to include: power purchases, monitoring and control of transmission and distribution systems, generation monitoring and control. Performs standard switching procedures and operates electrical system to ensure safety and provide continuous electric service to customers. Required to respond to alarms, which requires sufficient visual acuity and hearing. Performs related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in business, or related technical field; or Associate’s degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school; and, four to six years of progressively responsible related experience; or any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job in such areas of power generation, transmission or distribution operation. Valid driver’s license required. System Operators are required to be NERC Certified as one of the following: Reliability Coordinator; Balancing Interchange and Transmission; Transmission. Must complete required NIMS level training within first six months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Knowledge of NERC Reliability Standard Requirements, Energy Market Requirements, electrical systems and basic electrical circuit theory, electrical safety procedures, two-way radio communications, SCADA/EMS and other computer applications related to the work. Skilled in using tact, discretion, intuitive and independent judgment; Applying logical thinking to solve problems or accomplish tasks; Operating complex computer programs via a microcomputer or Human Machine Interface (HMI); Communicating clearly and effectively, orally and in writing. Able to write routine reports and correspondence; to read and interpret documents such as procedure manuals; deal with situations and solve problems involving several variables; investigate and log information.

Physical Demands: Required to sit for extended periods of time; have sufficient visual acuity and hearing; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Working Conditions: Normal office setting. Twelve-hour shifts are required.

Background check
Drug testing
In addition to the application, testing and/or examinations may be required for further consideration on this position.

IBEW Power & Light Bargaining Unit Position.

Position Open Until Filled. First priority given to IBEW members that apply by 2/5/2026

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The City of Independence is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. The City of Independence is a background screening, drug-free workplace.

The City of Independence provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation in order to apply for a job, please submit your request to humanresources-coi@indepmo.org.

Disclaimer: The above statements describe the general nature, level, and type of work performed by the incumbent(s) assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, demands, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job descriptions are not intended to and do not imply or create any employment, compensation, or contract rights to any person or persons. Management reserves the right in coordination with the governing union (if applicable) to add, delete, or modify any and/or all provisions of this description at any time as needed without notice. This job description supersedes earlier versions.