Shift Supervisor - Electric Distribution Center

059 Northern IN Public Serv Co LLC; Merrillville (IN); On-site; USD 97,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

NiSource in Merrillville, IN is seeking a Leader for Electric Operations to guide a team of dispatchers and field crews. You will support emergencies on the transmission and distribution system, oversee switching, maintenance tasks, and asset improvements to deliver safe, reliable service to customers.

The role requires strong leadership, safety focus, and the ability to coach and develop staff, manage operating and capital budgets, and coordinate with planning, engineering, and field teams.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in a utility or related field.
• Ability to assess emergencies and make quick, sound decisions.
• Strong safety and compliance knowledge.
• Ability to coach and develop employees.
• Organizational and planning skills.
• Experience with field operations and switching procedures.
• Familiarity with distribution/transmission concepts and diagrams.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Experience with operating and budgeting concepts.
• Ability to coordinate across multiple teams and platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead front-line workforce and provide coaching and feedback.
• Oversee dispatching, switching, and maintenance planning activities.
• Ensure safe work practices and compliance with safety manuals.
• Manage operating and capital budgets for the team.
• Collaborate with planning, engineering, substation, and field groups.
• Address emergencies per incident command structure and procedures.

Skills

Leadership experience

Emergency decision making

Safety compliance

Coaching employees

Organizational skills

Budget management

Shift leadership

Decision making under pressure

Mentoring front-line staff

Communication with multiple teams

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate or Bachelor's degree preferred

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.

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 NIPSCO’s 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

NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. Please review the following notices regarding your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. 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.

At NiSource, you'll be part of the team serving nearly four million customers throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, who count on us to energize their homes and businesses. Whether speaking with customers by phone, analyzing financial data or installing new gas lines in a neighborhood, you’ll meet exciting challenges each day and make the most of your skills and talents. And you’ll be part of a company that was named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers. We're looking for talent from all backgrounds. We invite candidates of all abilities to come as they are and do what they love. Through our years of successful growth, we’ve stayed true to our roots by making a difference in the lives of millions of our customers. If you’re interested in joining an inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth, NiSource might be the place for you.