Manager of Technical Services

EnergyUnited • Statesville, NC

13d • Hybrid

About The Position

EnergyUnited is seeking an experienced, strategic leader to oversee the planning, operation, maintenance, and modernization of its substation, transmission, communications, and operational technology systems. The role is responsible for the reliability and security of critical grid infrastructure and supports the cooperative's commitment to safe, dependable electric service. Reporting to the Director of Grid Systems, the manager leads technical personnel, oversees substation and communications assets, manages departmental budgets and work plans, and contributes to grid modernization and cybersecurity initiatives.

The position directs technical services across substation and transmission operations, utility communications and grid technology, asset management and contract administration, and metering and system monitoring. It includes staff development, operational planning, contractor and vendor oversight, and coordination with engineering and grid modernization teams.

This is a hybrid role with periodic reporting to EnergyUnited office locations. The employee must establish residency in one of the nineteen counties served by EnergyUnited or within a 40-road-mile radius of an EnergyUnited office. Availability during emergencies, major outages, and adverse weather is required; some irregular hours and participation in storm restoration and emergency response are expected.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in the State of North Carolina.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of substation and transmission construction, maintenance, and operations.
• Knowledge of electric utility safety practices, NESC requirements, RUS standards, and applicable regulations.
• Experience with utility communications systems and operational technology infrastructure.

Nice To Haves

• Seven or more years of experience in distribution, transmission, and substation construction, maintenance, and operations.
• Experience leading technical, construction, or utility operations teams.
• Knowledge of FCC regulations related to telecommunications and radio frequency systems.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with SCADA systems, load management technologies, and utility cybersecurity practices.
• Strong technical and engineering expertise.
• Excellent leadership and team-development skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong project management and vendor management experience.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced utility environment.
• Commitment to safety, reliability, and member service.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction for the Technical Services Department.
• Assist in developing and implementing departmental objectives and long-range strategies.
• Recommend improvements to technical operations, processes, and system performance.
• Develop and manage annual departmental budgets and work plans.
• Lead and develop technical staff while promoting safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
• Direct construction, operation, maintenance, testing, and inspection of substations in accordance with RUS standards and manufacturer requirements.
• Coordinate power restoration involving transmission and substation facilities during outages and emergencies.
• Maintain the Substation Equipment Database and oversee equipment lifecycle management.
• Support regional operations with testing, maintenance, and repair of distribution equipment, regulators, and reclosers.
• Coordinate with Engineering to maintain and develop protective relay settings.
• Direct specification, licensing, installation, operation, and maintenance of communications systems, including microwave, packet radio, and two-way radio networks.
• Oversee data communications for delivery point metering and real-time load signals to power suppliers.
• Collaborate with the Manager of Grid Modernization to maintain and enhance SCADA and Load Management systems.
• Strengthen cybersecurity by managing Operational Technology assets and ensuring timely firmware maintenance.
• Manage inventory for transmission and substation materials.
• Develop technical specifications, solicit bids, evaluate proposals, and recommend contract awards.
• Oversee contractors performing substation construction and specialized technical services.
• Coordinate development of substation plans and bid documents, and procurement of new substation sites.
• Oversee testing, calibration, and programming of current transformer metering systems.
• Review loading and billing information for large power accounts.
• Direct installation and operation of monitoring equipment used to analyze large power usage and system loading trends.
• Respond during emergencies, major outages, and adverse weather events, and participate in storm restoration and emergency response activities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager