Utilities High Voltage Specialist

Argonne National Laboratory•Lemont, IL

7d•$36 - $56

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the High Voltage Supervisor, the Utilities High Voltage Specialist maintains, supports, and assists with the day-to-day operation and maintenance of Argonne National Laboratory’s electrical transmission and distribution system. The role responds to and resolves high-voltage electrical emergencies and outages by assessing faults, performing diagnostics and repairs, and restoring power safely and efficiently. Work includes switching operations on transmission systems from 480V to 138KV; working with overhead and underground electrical equipment; and maintaining roadway lighting, interrupters, transformers, substation power equipment, motor control centers, and switchgear breakers. The position may also involve assisting or supervising contractors. The specialist works safely in varying conditions, including inclement weather, elevated work from bucket trucks, and off-shift call-outs. Although most maintenance personnel work day shift, off-shift coverage may be required, including irregular hours, evenings, weekends, and holidays. The role includes emergency-response training and Argonne internal qualified electrical worker certification. Out-of-state travel is required for training until that certification is completed.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience working with voltages up to 138K volts, preferably in a utility or industrial environment; 10 or more years is preferred.
Associate degree or technical-school education with certification, work qualification, or completion of an approved apprenticeship qualifying the individual for work under OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.269, Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution.
Proof of U.S. citizenship is required to comply with federal regulations and contract requirements.
Ability to follow procedures for isolating and de-energizing high-voltage equipment, including developing switching orders for individual jobs.
Proficiency in troubleshooting electrical faults and conducting root-cause analysis.
Knowledge of high-voltage equipment, including transformers, switchgear, relays, and protective devices.
Ability to interpret electrical schematics, diagrams, and technical manuals.
Strong communication and collaboration skills.
Strong decision-making skills and ability to prioritize tasks in high-pressure situations.
Good knowledge and use of computer software and applications.
Willingness to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
Ability to travel out of state for training until Argonne Qualified Electrical Worker training is completed.
Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.

Nice To Haves

Overhead electrical line experience.
Experience with predictive maintenance processes and methodologies.
Knowledge and experience in vegetation management, including tree trimming.
CDL Class B driver’s license with Air Brake Endorsement, or ability to obtain one within one year of hire.
Ten or more years of experience working with voltages up to 138K volts is preferred.

Responsibilities

Respond to and resolve high-voltage electrical emergencies, disturbances, and outages.
Conduct on-site assessments to identify the cause and extent of electrical faults and failures.
Perform switching operations on transmission systems from 480V to 138KV.
Implement temporary fixes and corrective actions to restore power while permanent repairs are planned and completed.
Coordinate with engineers, supervisors, and team members to prioritize work and optimize response efforts.
Perform diagnostic tests with specialized equipment to locate and characterize electrical problems.
Repair or replace damaged transformers, circuit breakers, switches, overhead lines, and other components.
Operate and maintain overhead and underground electrical equipment, roadway lighting, interrupters, transformers, substation power equipment, motor control centers, and switchgear breakers.
Assist or supervise contractors as needed.
Document troubleshooting, repairs, and equipment status.
Participate in training and emergency-response drills, including Argonne internal qualified electrical worker certification.
Comply with Laboratory and Division Environmental Safety and Health policies, work rules, and safe work practices.
Perform other duties as assigned.