Power Systems Operator

Shape Your World

At Alcoa, you will become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress. The way we see it, every Alcoan is a work-shaper, team-shaper, idea-shaper & world-shaper.

About the Role:

We are seeking a Power Systems Operator to join our team at Alcoa in Massena, NY. In the dynamic role, this individual will be responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the APGI Long Sault 115kV Transmission System for the Alcoa Massena West Plant, and contracted Arconic high‑voltage assets. This role oversees operations and maintenance for the Rectifier Station, high‑voltage substations, and potable/process water systems. The position also administers the High Voltage Safety (Markup) Process, manages metering verification, market nominations, billing activities, and supports FERC regulatory filings.

• Provide real‑time operations, alarm response, and control for the BES Control Room, Rectifier Station, high‑voltage systems, and water systems.

• Serve as principal controller, ensuring safe, compliant operation of all plants and contracted power system equipment.

• Support efforts to enhance reliability and performance of potline and plant power systems.

• Must be available on a 24-hour 7-day per week basis to respond to system outages and support recovery. 

• Maintain open line of communication with his/her counterparts within organization and enhance these practices to foster better collaboration between hourly and salaried teams.

• Act as backup to the Power System Supervisor for vacations, training, sick leave etc.

• Lead plant‑wide high‑voltage safety practices and coordinate maintenance‑related safety initiatives.

• Maintain and periodically review NERC TO and TOP standards relevant to APGI.

• Support evidence collection and documentation for compliance activities. Review and update TO/TOP procedures, collect compliance evidence, and update working papers.

• Verify power metering accuracy with NYPA through monthly reconciliation.

• Manage daily and weekly NYISO nominations/bids for DER program participation.

• Maintain monthly and annual power metering data and billing files.

• Assist with power billing, forecasting, and settlements. Update OATT cost ratios, smelting forecasts, metering files, and billing estimates.

• Prepare and submit FERC‑related data and reports.

Key Challenges

• Maintain 99% reliability across all power system operations.

• Serve as primary contact for NYPA metering confirmations and energy usage nominations.

• Ensure accuracy in power forecasting, billing estimates, and revenue calculations.

• Provide accurate reduction bids for third‑party market participation.

• Train and support on‑call personnel to meet corporate reliability standards.

Working Conditions:

• Onsite within an industrial manufacturing environment.

• Frequent collaboration with hourly and salaried employees working varying shifts.

• Routine presence in production areas, which may involve exposure to noise, extreme heat/cold, and industrial equipment.

• Standard business schedule with occasional flexibility required to support operational priorities.

• Model Alcoa’s safety values and champion a safety‑first culture.

• Support compliance with all safety procedures, standards, and safe‑work practices.

What you can bring to the role:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent of relevant experience.

• Knowledge of electrical transmission and distribution systems, rectifiers, and potable water systems.

• Strong understanding of BES one-line diagrams and associate power flow. 

• Strong knowledge of power system safety standards and the ability to develop and deliver related training.

• Demonstrated PC skills are required, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS-Schedule/Exchange

• Demonstrated ability in providing leadership, achieving results and driving change.

• Strong organizational and time‑management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Effective communication (written and verbal), critical‑thinking and problem‑solving capability.

• Ability to work independently, collaboratively and on an on-call basis when emergencies occur.

What’s on Offer:

• Competitive compensation packages, including pay-for-performance variable pay as well as recognition and rewards programs.

• Flexible spending accounts and generous employer contribution to the HSA

• 401(k), employer match up to 6%, additional employer retirement income contribution (no vesting period), and a non-qualified deferred compensation plan

• 15 vacation days prorated in the 1st year based on hire date.

• Alcoa has been chosen as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces 2023 by Newsweek

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About the Location

Our Massena facility in New York State, established in 1902, is home to the longest continuously operating smelter in the world. Located on the St. Lawrence River, Massena, NY is the center for commercial, industrial, and manufacturing success in St. Lawrence County. Massena’s caring sense of community, affordable cost of living, and extremely low-cost locally supplied energy, coupled with four public and private universities nearby, make Massena a great place to call home. And within a two hour drive (or less) are cosmopolitan and historic Montreal and Ottawa, Canada to the north, and to the south are the tall, beautiful views of Adirondacks and within it is Lake Placid The Olympic Village.

We are values led, vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real progress.  Our commitments to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate.   

As a proud equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer, Alcoa is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of a person’s gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, nation of origin, disability, veteran status, language spoken or any other characteristic or status protected by the laws or regulations in the places where we operate.  

If you have visited our website in search of information on U.S. employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Alcoa Recruiting via email at gssrecruiting@alcoa.com.  

This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work, be your authentic self, and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!  

Your work. Your world. Shape them for the better.