Distribution Reliability Specialist

Jcremc•Franklin, IN

About The Position

Johnson County REMC (JCREMC) is seeking a motivated and technically skilled professional to join our operations team as a Distribution Reliability Specialist . This position plays an important role in supporting the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the cooperative's electric distribution system. The Distribution Reliability Specialist provides technical and field support for inspection, maintenance, testing, and reliability initiatives across the cooperative's electrical infrastructure. This role works closely with operations leadership and field personnel to identify system issues, support reliability improvements, and assist with the integration and operation of distributed energy resources (DER) such as solar, battery storage, and cooperative load-control systems. If you enjoy solving technical problems, working both in the field and in coordination with operations teams, and contributing to the reliability of critical infrastructure that serves our members, we encourage you to apply. The Distribution Reliability Specialist provides technical and field support for maintenance, inspection, testing, and reliability programs related to JCREMC's electric distribution system and cooperative-owned distributed energy resources (DER). This position performs field diagnostics, equipment inspections, condition assessments, and troubleshooting activities to support safe and reliable system operation. The role also assists with commissioning activities, asset documentation, and coordination of maintenance and operational work that supports the cooperative's system reliability goals.

Requirements

Working knowledge of electric distribution systems and reliability principles and practices.
Familiarity with distributed energy resources (DER), substation equipment maintenance, RUS standards, OSHA regulations, and basic control or automation systems used in electric utility operations.
Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities related to electrical equipment, monitoring systems, and reliability issues.
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, technical documentation, maintenance manuals, and operational data.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with internal staff, contractors, vendors, and cooperative members.
Ability to learn and utilize utility operational systems, monitoring platforms, and asset management tools.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of operational, system, and cooperative information.
Valid Indiana driver's license.
High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Completion of an accredited apprenticeship program, Hoosier Energy Meter Technician program, or comparable electric utility technical training is preferred.
Individuals hired without these credentials must enroll in and successfully complete the required training programs within a timeframe determined by the cooperative as a condition of continued employment.
The Distribution Reliability Specialist must be able to travel throughout the cooperative's service territory and work in a variety of outdoor conditions.
Work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Traverse uneven terrain and utility work sites
Stand, walk, sit, and use hands for handling tools and equipment
Climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl when necessary
Lift or move objects weighing up to 100 pounds with or without assistance
Employees are expected to follow all cooperative safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

Conduct preventive field inspections of the electric distribution system and related infrastructure in accordance with manufacturer requirements, JCREMC and Rural Utilities Service (RUS) guidelines, and industry best practices.
Assist with commissioning, testing, and operational verification of distributed energy resource (DER) assets such as solar systems, battery storage, and cooperative-owned load-control technologies.
Support distribution reliability initiatives by performing field verification, condition assessments, and documentation of distribution system components.
Troubleshoot equipment alarms, abnormal operating conditions, and system performance issues in coordination with the Distribution Reliability Coordinator.
Perform routine infrared scans of substations and other critical infrastructure to identify developing hazards or potential equipment failures.
Maintain accurate maintenance records, inspection reports, and asset condition documentation utilizing JCREMC software systems and asset management platforms.
Assist with coordinating maintenance activities with internal departments, line crews, contractors, and third-party vendors.
Participate in outage response, emergency restoration efforts, and reliability investigations related to DER and distribution system events.
Identify and recommend opportunities for improvements in maintenance practices, processes, and reliability programs.
Ensure compliance with applicable safety standards, reporting requirements, and cooperative policies and procedures related to DER assets.