Engineering Technician I-II

Job Purpose

Design and plan work orders for the construction, maintenance, and modification of the Utility's electric transmission and distribution system. Ensure work orders are completed timely and accurately. Perform field checks of drawings and maps, and ensure billing data is updated correctly. Work with internal and external customers as needed with focus on residential customer services. Provide engineering support for on-going water, technical services, and telecommunications projects as needed (level II position only). Serve as backup to Engineering Technician III as liaison to our large commercial and industrial customers (level II position only).

Specific Responsibilities

- Design, plan, and assist in scheduling Transmission & Distribution activities, serving as project leader as assigned. This includes:

- Prepare work orders to construct, maintain, and modify the electric transmission and distribution system. Review work orders for completeness, accuracy, and conformance to Utility standards. Field-check work to ensure all completed work is accurately reflected on Utility maps and records, including the data input in the computerized maintenance management system

- Make field visits prior to project design and to inspect work in progress.

- Stake pole and/or trench locations for line routing in accordance with applicable codes and Utility requirements.

- Assist in gathering field data to aid in the design of civil, structural, and electrical projects.

- Provide line design and cost estimates for maintenance projects and small capital (PSF) projects (level II position only).

- Provide assistance to customers and contractors for job sales. This includes:

- Work with customers and contractors regarding cost estimates, preparing work orders, material lists, and drawings as required.

- Monitor job sales construction activities and approve subsequent billings to customers.

- Respond to customer complaints and take action as needed. Communicate Utility policy to customers.

- Perform preventive maintenance programs as needed, including infrared scanning, periodic equipment inspections, radio interference, and ground resistance measurements. Create work orders to correct any problems.

Other Responsibilities

- Work with electricians, residential and commercial customers in design and construction requirements for electrical and lighting services and security lights.

- Obtain easements from customers for transmission and distribution lines and equipment.

- Level II position will assist Engineering Technician III with:

- Assisting large industrial customers in design and construction requirements for electrical and lighting services and security lights.

- Participation in creation, review, and modification of Construction Standards, including participation within the Construction Standards Committee.

- Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge

- Associate's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required.

- Previous transmission and distribution system design and maintenance experience preferred.

- Engineering Technician I is an entry-level position with utility experience preferred. Engineering Technician II is a minimum 3 years utility experience preferred. Experience in both electric and water is desired.

- Minimum 1 year of experience using GIS software, Esri ArcGIS preferred (level II position only).

- Working knowledge, or ability to quickly obtain knowledge, of overhead and underground electrical systems, designs, metering, and equipment including transformers, capacitors, oil switches, and switchgear.

- Working knowledge, or ability to quickly obtain knowledge, of applicable local, state, and federal codes, publications, and standards that govern work on the transmission and distribution system such as NESC, NEC, NFPA, OSHA, and Iowa Utility Board.

- Familiarity with a computerized maintenance management system.

Skills

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

- Excellent interpersonal and listening skills, with ability to build productive professional relationships and promote a team atmosphere.

- Proficiency with use of Microsoft Office Word and Excel at a basic level.

- Good judgment and reasoning skills.

- Problem identification, analysis, and solving.

- Project management skills desired for level I, required for level II.

- Good math skills.

Abilities

- Ability to work as part of a team, either as team leader or a member of a team.

- Ability to drive results and ensure work is accomplished properly, safely, and in a timely manner.

- Ability to work independently, effectively prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adjust work priorities as needed to meet department/organizational objectives.

- Ability to develop, read, and interpret drawings, schematics, specifications, and technical manuals.

- Ability to distinguish colors.

Other Position Requirements

- Must possess a valid driver's license.

- Must be able to attend work on a regular basis and work extended hours as needed.

- Must maintain a method of communication to be contacted by MP&W outside normal work hours.

- Must be comfortable working around high voltage and recognizing high voltage situations.

Work Environment

- Work environment is primarily in an office environment. Frequent visits to an industrial coal-fired power plant or outside job sites (including residential, commercial, or industrial customer locations) may be required. Fieldwork is completed in all weather.

- Must comply with all safety and site rules at all locations.

WorkSTEPS

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

This position is rated Medium in the WorkSTEPS program.