Shift Supervisor - Electric Distribution Center

NiSource; Merrillville (IN); On-site; USD 97,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

NiSource is seeking a Leader for Electric Operations to guide a team of employees and contractors in responding to emergencies on the Transmission & Distribution Electric System. You will oversee dispatch, system switching, and asset improvements, ensuring safe, reliable service and adherence to company standards.

The role emphasizes safety leadership, development of frontline staff, and coordination with multiple internal groups.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 4+ years of experience in the electric utility industry or related field.
• Demonstrated leadership experience.
• Ability to make sound decisions in emergencies.
• Strong knowledge of safety and compliance requirements.
• Ability to coach and develop employees.
• Willingness to work long hours and shift rotations (4 days on 4 days off).

Responsibilities

• Lead front-line workforce and provide direction and coaching.
• Manage and escalate emergencies and outages per procedures.
• Oversee dispatch center operations and coordinate with internal/external groups.
• Ensure work aligns with company standards, regulations, and budgets.
• Develop and train staff to improve performance and safety.
• Maintain effective two-way communication with leadership and field personnel.

Skills

Leadership experience

Communication

Emergency response

Safety compliance

Problem solving

Operations management

Education

Associate degree or Bachelor’s degree

Tools

ITOA

NMS

NIMS

Salesforce

SAP

CIS

ESO1

GIS

Job description

Job Summary

A Leader for Electric Operations, ESSO provides leadership to a team of employees and/or contractors directly responsible for supporting emergencies on the Transmission & Distribution Electric System, performing general dispatching and system switching for operational & maintenance tasks and the installation of asset improvements. They oversee the electric service territory and are expected to ensure safe, reliable, delivery of service to customers and communities. Field Leaders serve as role models for safe work practices. They also actively manage the development and training of employees to improve individual and team performance. Field Leaders are generally on call 24 hours a day to support operational activities and electric system emergencies, as necessary.

Job Summary

A Leader for Electric Operations, ESSO provides leadership to a team of employees and/or contractors directly responsible for supporting emergencies on the Transmission & Distribution Electric System, performing general dispatching and system switching for operational & maintenance tasks and the installation of asset improvements. They oversee the electric service territory and are expected to ensure safe, reliable, delivery of service to customers and communities. Field Leaders serve as role models for safe work practices. They also actively manage the development and training of employees to improve individual and team performance. Field Leaders are generally on call 24 hours a day to support operational activities and electric system emergencies, as necessary.

Essential Functions

• Demonstrate Safety Leadership by promoting and assuring a safe working environment, as well as, helping to support the continued improvement of electric operations public safety. In addition, ensure all personnel perform safe work habits according to the NIPSCO’s Safety Manual.
• Provide leadership, direction, and performance coaching to the front-line workforce. Facilitate effective two-way communication, especially between front-line workers and the rest of the organization.
• Serve as a consistent and regular presence in the dispatch center providing leadership, direction, and feedback to the front-line employees.
• Actively manage the development, training, and evaluation of front-line workers to improve individual and team performance.
• Manage and enforce the terms in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (where applicable)
• Promote Operational Excellence by motivating, coaching, and developing staff to meet established objectives
• Create an environment in which front-line workers are actively involved in the spirit and steps of Continuous Improvement.
• Ensure optimal use of resources by supporting the development and driving the execution of the teams’ work plans along with proper management of Operating and Maintenance and Capital Budgets.
• Collaborate with and build strong working relationships with internal and external groups to coordinate work efforts.
• Ensures that work is completed according to company standards, regulations, processes, and procedures.
• Ensure employees effectively use tools and technology to complete their daily work.
• Cultivate and advance a diverse and inclusive environment.
• Convey a leadership image that is consistent with the organization's values, demonstrating the qualities, traits, and demeanor that commands leadership respect.
• Troubleshoot process systems, equipment failure/concerns, or inefficiencies when they occur.
• Respond to emergencies within the company’s established procedures, incident command system structure, and storm recovery structure.
• Ensures all personnel training is up to date and compliant.
• Must possess valid State Driver’s License and clean driving record, and clean driving record.

Required Qualifications For Position

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 4+ years of experience in the electric utility industry and/or background within a related utility, and skilled trades.
• Demonstrated Leadership experience
• Demonstrated knowledge and ability to quickly assess and make sound decisions in emergency situations
• Strong knowledge of on-the-job safety and compliance requirements
• Ability to motivate stakeholders with varying priorities to accomplish a common goal.
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Ability to coach and develop employees
• Demonstrated ability to use a variety of technologies used for everyday tasks
• Knowledgeable of distribution and transmission line and substations (troubleshooting, maintenance, and operational activities)
• Understanding single line diagrams, engineering drawings, prints, and standards.
• Periodically assumes the duties of the department manager.
• Additional hours more than 40/week and a shift rotation 4 days on 4 days off (days and nights) will be required to meet expectations of this position
• Review, write and approve a proper switching order in accordance with NIPSCOs General Orders.
• Basic understanding of electrical concepts and theories.
• Responsible for directing their teams to meet CAIDI, SAIDI, SAIFI, ETR, and other customer commitment goals.
• Directs field damage assessment and restoration work for electric system outages.
• Work closely within the following software platforms; ITOA, NMS, NIMS, Salesforce, SAP, CIS, ESO1 and GIS
• Provides technical support and operational data to various operating, planning, and engineering groups to assist in the planning, installation, and operation of new equipment additions to the electric system with emphasis on future operational needs, system reliability, and safe switching practices.
• Assigns equipment designations for electric line switches, new and existing lines, and addresses special operating conditions within these areas.
• Monitors current electric system operating conditions using Network Management System (NMS) and other computer data-based systems, as they become available, for abnormalities affecting or having the potential to affect safety and/or system reliability.
• Works with Dispatcher -Operators and other operating groups to resolve these issues.
• Conducts frequent communications to keep abreast of construction progress and maintains close affiliation with all field operating personnel.
• Supervise and provides guidance to Dispatcher-Operators, addressing and resolving routine and emergency substation and line switching, electric system restoration, and outage evaluation issues.
• Communicates frequently with Leadership, Planning, Engineering, Substation, Construction, Technical Service, Local Operating personnel, and customer groups to address current and future operational and construction issues.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Additional Qualifications For Position

• Associate degree or bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• additional relevant certifications such as: Project Management Professional, Certified Safety Professional, Professional Engineer Certification Upon Hire.

The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.

Work Authorization

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Workplace Connection

We value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners.

We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.

Veteran Hiring & Inclusion

NiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may also be considered for other roles that match your skills and experience.

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at [e-mail] or 1-888-640-3320

Safety Statement

Safety is a core value at NiSource. Employees are expected to follow safety requirements, report hazards, and help maintain a safe environment for themselves and their coworkers.

E-Verify

• E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish)
• Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish)

Salary Range*

$96,600.00 - $144,900.00

• The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate’s skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.

Posting Start Date

2026-11-13

Posting End Date (if applicable)

2026-11-30

Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.