About Clark Energy Cooperative

 Clark Energy Cooperative is a not-for-profit electric utility serving more than 27,000 members across east-central Kentucky. Established in 1938 and owned by the members it serves, Clark Energy is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to homes, farms, and businesses. With approximately 60 employees across three locations, our team takes pride in delivering excellent customer service and supporting the communities where we live and work.

OBJECTIVE

The Distribution Automation Technician supports the reliable operation, accuracy, and advancement of the electric distribution system by assisting with the installation, testing, maintenance, and troubleshooting of metering, AMI/RF communications, and distribution automation equipment. This role works closely with the Supervisor of Distribution Automation to ensure regulatory compliance, system integrity, accurate data collection, and effective communication between field devices and utility control systems, while providing technical support to employees, vendors, contractors, and members. The position contributes to safe operations, continuous system improvement, and high-quality customer service through both field and technical work.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITIES

Assumes and has responsibility for results from the activities in the following functional areas:

• Must be able to travel, including out-of-state travel, for trainings, meetings, and other events.
• Assist the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with the Installation, inspection, testing, maintenance and repair of self-contained and instrument transformer rated metering and equipment for single and three phase installations. Using specialized hardware and software.
• Assist the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with all meter test programs per PSC and Clark Energy requirements. Includes responsibility for field and shop testing, meter repairs, meter inventory, and PSC required reports.
• Assist the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with the installation, operation and inspection of electronic distribution equipment, other instrumentation, electronic reclosers, voltage regulators, and capacitors, etc.
• Test and verify all meter testing equipment, standards, and related equipment.
• Test and verify volt meters per PSC requirements.
• Install and maintain various equipment required for AMI\RF systems using specialized equipment and software.
• Trouble shoot RF communication issues in the field and office settings organizing personnel and equipment needed for onsite testing and\or replacement\relocation of AMI\RF equipment for maximum data throughput and layer reduction.
• Assists the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with the management and implementation of software and firmware upgrades to all AMI\RF equipment to maintain up to date functionality and reliability across multiple software platforms without affecting day to day operation of said equipment.
• Assists the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with the monitoring and management of all daily communication needs for AMI\RF equipment and assists with outside communication vendors for replacement or upgraded equipment needs.
• Works with and coordinates with multiple vendors for equipment and supplies in all areas of responsibility.
• Works directly with multi-level tech support to resolve equipment / communications issues.
• Assist the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with the design, testing, and implement meter programs for specific rate and required functionality.
• Resolve metering related conflicts with customers.
• Assist the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with the installation of communication needs and device settings for Distribution Automation.
• Assist the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with the training of in-house employees and contractors on use and functionality of various distribution equipment controls, respond to questions of in-house employees and contractors in need of assistance while utilizing various distribution equipment controls in real time.
• Must research and maintain up to date knowledge of multiple software systems and hardware used in AMI\RF, metering, and distribution controls.
• Assist the Supervisor of Distribution Automation with net metering facilities to maintain ability to confirm basic operation of the installation in regards to proper shut down and prevention of back feeding onto utility infrastructure.
• Enforce provisions of and respond to technical questions regarding National Electrical Safety Code and National Electrical Code requirements.
• Meet with consumers to perform consumer or PSC requested meter testing.
• Explain and inform consumers of fundamental electrical wiring issues related to Clark Energy.
• Resolve conflicts with respect to utility requirements and consumers wishes.
• Required to follow all PPE and safety protocols.
• Attend and participate in all required training courses and meetings.
• Must comply with all company policies and procedures.
• Must maintain a neat and professional appearance.
• Other duties as assigned.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

• Reports to: Supervisor of Distribution Automation
• Supervises: None
• Directs: None

OTHER RELATIONSHIPS

INTERNAL

• Finance/Customer Services Department: Coordinate and exchange metering, billing, and system data to support accurate customer accounts, reporting, and efficient office operations.
• Operations Department: Coordinate work and exchange information related to metering and special equipment installations or replacements. Assist with major outages as required.
• Member Services Department: Provide technical information and support related to metering, AMI/RF systems, and distribution automation to assist with member inquiries and account issues.

EXTERNAL

• Members: Provide technical information and assist with questions.
• Large Power Accounts: Provide technical assistance and assist with questions
• Vendors: Administer specifications and inventory requirements.
• PSC: Administer compliance with PSC metering regulatory requirements.
• Construction Contractors: Coordinate work and exchange information related to metering and special equipment installations or replacements.
• Metering and RF Maintenance Contractors: Provide inspections and required maintenance based on PSC and Clark Energy requirements.

POSITION SPECIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

Schedule:

• Typical Schedule: This position generally follows a 4/10 schedule, working Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Flexibility: Work hours may occasionally be adjusted to meet business operational needs, including coverage during high?demand periods, holiday weeks, or special circumstances.

Education, Training, & Certifications:

• Minimum of Associate degree in Engineering Technology required. 
• Must be able to read, write, and perform basic mathematical calculations necessary for job tasks.
• Must meet and maintain DOT license requirements.
• Required to have or obtain PSC meter testing certification within one year of hire date.
• Required to attend out of state trainings on an as required basis.

Experience:

• 0-3 years of experience required. Electrical/Electronic industry-related job or schooling experience preferred.

Job Knowledge:

• All aspects of position require the use and knowledge of Windows based desktop, laptop and software as well as Apple based hardware and software.

Abilities and Skills:

• Must work independently and without direct supervision.
• Must have ability to trouble shoot equipment and equipment installations logically.
• Ability to gain in-depth knowledge of various metering, measuring, and monitoring equipment.
• Ability to gain in-depth knowledge of metering hardware and software products.
• Ability to gain in-depth knowledge of AMI meter reading\communication technologies, hardware, and software.
• Ability to use an aerial bucket for work on energized pole-mounted metering facilities.
• Working knowledge of PC's and Microsoft Office software products.
• Working knowledge of NISC iVue software products.
• Working knowledge of various office equipment.
• Ability to gain in-depth knowledge of electronic distribution equipment controls.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• This position involves a combination of office and field work and may require working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, as well as traveling and walking over uneven terrain.
• The role requires the ability to perform a range of physical activities necessary to complete essential job duties. These may include standing, walking, sitting, and positioning oneself to perform tasks; lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling materials or equipment (occasionally up to approximately 50 pounds, with or without assistance); and performing movements such as stooping, kneeling, crouching, bending, reaching, and maintaining balance.
• The position requires the use of hands and arms to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, and equipment, as well as the operation of standard office and field equipment, including computers, calculators, copiers, and communication devices.
• This position may also require extended periods of walking or working outdoors to support customer needs and outage restoration efforts.
• For safety and operational effectiveness, the role requires the ability to:
• Interpret and work from maps, markings, flags, and other visual indicators that may be color-coded or otherwise visually differentiated.
• Recognize and respond appropriately to audible signals, alarms, and other environmental sounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Clark Energy Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Clark Energy Cooperative is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to employees with sincerely held religious beliefs, in accordance with applicable laws. Applicants who require an accommodation during the application or interview process should contact the Human Resources Department.

Work Location: In person

About Clark Energy Cooperative, Inc.

Connections working at Clark Energy Cooperative, Inc.