Manager, Protection & Controls (Non-Union) / Alectra Utilities

Manager, Protection & Controls (Non-Union)

Markham, Ontario

Full-time, 35 hours/ week, Hybrid

At Alectra, we’re not just about powering communities; we’re about empowering our people. We prioritize well-being through a culture that fosters collaboration, innovation and continuous growth. We believe in providing a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and make an impact.

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for technology and operational excellence? 

The Manager of Protection and Control provides leadership and oversight for key operational areas, including Protection and Control systems, Communications networks, and supporting Operational Technologies like SCADA. This role involves managing projects and activities related to the installation, maintenance, and commissioning of Protective Relaying Schemes, Station Automation Systems, SCADA and Distribution Automation Systems, and Alectra Telecommunications Networks. This position manages a dynamic, skilled team of Supervisory, field, and clerical staff and works collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders. 

What you’ll do 

Technical Leadership

• Administer the Protective Relay Reverification program across Transformer Stations and Municipal Substations, ensuring compliance with Alectra and applicable external procedures and policies.
• Manage Maintenance programs for automation and telecommunication assets to ensure high reliability of data and availability of remotely switchable and monitored resources.
• Oversee updates to the SCADA application for system additions and modifications, ensuring timely updates to the schematic displays and database to reflect operational changes.
• Oversee the deployment, maintenance, and optimization of Alectra Telecommunication networks, including wireline, wireless, voice radio, and leased third-party infrastructure. Ensure that Capital projects pertaining to Protection, Control, and Telecom system expansions and upgrades are executed within budget and on time 

Strategic Planning and Leadership

• Provide insights, feedback, and recommendations to internal stakeholders on strategic expansions and enhancements to Protection, Control, and Communications systems to support Grid Modernization
• Develop, analyze, and monitor departmental key performance indicators to maintain high quality and productivity levels.
• Prepare Business Plans and Capital and Operating budgets, and manage appropriately to meet operational and corporate objectives
• Research, recommend, and implement new or enhanced technologies, policies, procedures, and processes to improve operational effectiveness. 

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to legislative, regulatory, and Health & Safety policies, procedures, and standards.
• Comply with IESO Ontario Reliability Compliance Program (ORCP) requirements for Transmission-connected asset relay testing.

Relationship Management

• Liaise with consultants, contractors, manufacturers, and external authorities.
• Collaborate with other departments to maintain high operational performance.
• Promote high levels of engagement within the team

Resource Management

• Provide leadership and direction through coaching, development, performance management, and resource planning.
• Manage departmental projects and key initiatives to ensure quality and timely completion within budget.

Safety Leadership

• Support and promote the corporate safety culture.
• Complete safety audits and work observations and investigate incidents promptly. 

Corporate Values and Conduct: Demonstrate professional conduct and align with Alectra’s core values of safety, teamwork, and customer focus.

Other Duties: Perform additional tasks as assigned to support operational objectives 

Who you are 

Education & Technical Knowledge

• Bachelor's degree or college diploma related to Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or recognized equivalent.
• Licenced Professional Engineer (P.Eng) or Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) in good standing in the Province of Ontario
• Thorough knowledge of Station and Distribution System Protection Fundamentals, philosophies, and equipment
• Sound knowledge of SCADA Systems, system automation, and related technologies.
• Understanding of communication networks, including Fibre-optics and wireless technologies
• Sound knowledge of applicable safety regulations, such as OHSA, Electrical Safety Rules, Utility Work Protection Code, and Alectra policies and procedures
• Knowledge of regulatory and governmental requirements (OEB Rules and Regulations, NPCC, PIPEDA, and OHSA).
• Proficiency with MS Office applications.
• Knowledge of relay testing equipment and procedures and computerized maintenance management software.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of experience, including 5 years of supervisory experience in the electrical utility industry.
• Experience in a unionized utility environment is an asset.

Skills/Abilities/Competencies

• Ability to lead change and engage, develop, and motivate teams.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Strong planning skills, with the ability to assess the impact of decisions.
• Excellent written and presentation skills, with the ability to organize and convey information effectively.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and execute multiple projects and initiatives within established timelines.
• Strong conflict negotiation skills, with the ability to influence and resolve challenging situations.
• Must hold and maintain a valid class G driver’s license. 

Where you will work 

• The role is performed primarily in an office environment, with occasional time spent in the field.
• Work may involve minor exposure to disagreeable conditions, including inclement weather, while supervising construction sites or maintenance activities. 

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.
  • Hybrid work environment (if applicable): Based on operational requirements, we offer flexible working arrangements that include working remotely or on-site.

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

Ready to Apply? 

If you would like to be considered for this position and meet the qualifications, please submit your resume by visiting our Careers page at https://www.alectra.com/careers.

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 careers@alectrautilities.com. 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.