Utility Planning Specialist - Entry Level to Lead

NiSource•Kokomo, IN

1d•$62,000 - $123,200•Hybrid

About The Position

Utility Planning Specialist - Entry Level to Lead Full Time Perm Way of Work: Hybrid - 3 days in-office Location: Merrillville, Indiana, or any office located in Indiana provided adequate accommodations exist Salary: $67,900 - $123,200, plus annual bonus NiSource is one of the largest fully regulated utility companies in the U.S., serving millions of customers across six states. We’re more than an energy provider—we’re a team committed to innovation, inclusion, and growth. At NiSource, you’ll find a workplace that encourages collaboration, supports professional development, and empowers employees to make an impact. At NIPSCO, our New Business department is a catalyst for customer growth, infrastructure expansion, and operational excellence. Our team collaborates closely with clients to deliver comprehensive utility solutions. We specialize in planning and coordinating electric and gas services for a variety of projects—whether it’s a residential subdivision, a single-family home, or a commercial development. By partnering with clients from concept to completion, we ensure reliable and efficient utility infrastructure tailored to their needs. As a Utility Planning Specialist, you will play a key role in delivering exceptional service and technical expertise to our customers. In this role, you’ll manage the end-to-end execution of customer-requested utility work, ensuring projects meet performance goals and regulatory standards: Research facilities and apply design standards to develop accurate plans for electric and gas services. Prepare pricing, invoicing, contracts, and manage order workflows from initiation to completion. Provide technical solutions and process insights that enable efficient installations for both customers and the company. Anticipate challenges, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, and ensure timely in-service delivery. Deliver an outstanding customer experience that fosters trust and repeat business. Perform occasional field work related to the design and implementation of customer projects. If you’re detail-oriented, customer-focused, and passionate about utility infrastructure, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Your additional responsibilities may include, but are not limited to: Design and manage gas and electric service projects, including new installations, upgrades, and relocations. Review CAD drawings and prepare permits, easements, and related documentation for project execution. Assess customer needs to recommend solutions, ensure compliance with standards, and prepare contracts. Calculate technical requirements such as demand, pressure, and fuel utilization for accurate design. Build strong relationships with customers and stakeholders while providing exceptional service and technical guidance.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
Knowledge of gas and electric distribution work management principles
Basic knowledge of energy products, services, end-use applications
Strong communication and presentation skills
Strong customer service skills
Valid driver's license
Ability to travel, sometimes under short notice

Nice To Haves

Prior New Business Specialist experience
Utility experience

Responsibilities

Research facilities and apply design standards to develop accurate plans for electric and gas services.
Prepare pricing, invoicing, contracts, and manage order workflows from initiation to completion.
Provide technical solutions and process insights that enable efficient installations for both customers and the company.
Anticipate challenges, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, and ensure timely in-service delivery.
Deliver an outstanding customer experience that fosters trust and repeat business.
Perform occasional field work related to the design and implementation of customer projects.
Design and manage gas and electric service projects, including new installations, upgrades, and relocations.
Review CAD drawings and prepare permits, easements, and related documentation for project execution.
Assess customer needs to recommend solutions, ensure compliance with standards, and prepare contracts.
Calculate technical requirements such as demand, pressure, and fuel utilization for accurate design.
Build strong relationships with customers and stakeholders while providing exceptional service and technical guidance.