Utilities High Voltage Specialist

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, USA

Job posting number: #7230660 (Ref:417745)

Posted: March 20, 2024

Job Description

Under general supervision of the High Voltage Supervisor, Argonne is searching for a Utilities High Voltage Specialist to maintain, support, and assist in the day to day operation and maintenance of the Argonne National Laboratory electrical transmission and distribution system.  Although most maintenance personnel work the day shift some off shift coverage may be required.

This job description documents the general nature of work but is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all activities, duties and responsibilities required of job incumbent. Consequently, job incumbent may be required to perform other duties as assigned. 

Specific Duties

As a High Voltage Specialist, you will be responsible for responding to and resolving electrical emergencies and outages related to high voltage systems. You will conduct diagnostic assessments, perform repairs, and implement solutions to restore power safely and efficiently. This may involve locating, switching operations on transmissions from 480V to 138KV, assisting or supervising contractors, operation of electrical equipment such as high or low voltage items overhead or underground, maintenance of lab wide roadway lighting, interrupters, transformers (oil and air cooled), substation power equipment, motor control centers, and switchgear breakers. This role requires a strong understanding of high voltage electrical systems and the ability to work effectively under pressure in dynamic situations.

  • Work safely in varying conditions, such as inclement weather, off shift call outs 24/7, and elevated work from bucket trucks.
  • Respond promptly to reports of high voltage electrical disturbances, outages, and emergencies.
  • Conduct on-site assessments to identify the cause and extent of electrical faults and failures in high voltage systems.
  • Implement temporary fixes and immediate corrective actions to restore power while permanent repairs are planned and executed.
  • Coordinate with engineers, supervisors, and other team members to prioritize tasks and optimize response efforts.
  • Perform diagnostic tests using specialized equipment to pinpoint the location and nature of electrical problems.
  • Repair or replace damaged components, such as transformers, circuit breakers, switches, and overhead lines, to restore service.
  • Document work performed, including troubleshooting steps, repairs made, and equipment status, for record-keeping and analysis purposes.
  • Participate in training sessions and drills to enhance skills and preparedness for emergency response scenarios, including Argonne internal qualified electrical worker certification.
  • Comply with all Laboratory and Division Environmental Safety and Health (ES&H) policies, work rules, and safe work practices.

Position Requirements

  • 10 years experience working with voltages up to 138K volts, preferably in a utility or industrial environment.
  • Must have a certification, work qualification, or completed an approved apprenticeship program that qualifies the individual to perform work associated with OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.269 Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution. 
  • Must provide a copy of a current CDL Driver’s License with a Class B and Air Brake Endorsement.
  • Ability to Follow established protocols and procedures for isolating and de-energizing high voltage equipment to ensure safety including the development of switching orders on a job by job basis.
  • 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.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Strong decision-making skills and the ability to prioritize tasks in high-pressure situations.
  • Good knowledge and use of a computer software and applications.
  • Experience in predictive maintenance processes and methodologies is desired. 
  • Knowledge and experience in vegetation management including tree trimming is desired.
  • Willingness to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.

Safety, Security, and Environmental Protection

All activities, as they apply to work performed by self and working with others will be executed in compliance with Environment, Safety & Health (ES&H) and security responsibilities established by Argonne National Laboratory's ES&H policies, Safeguards and Security policies, work rules, and safe practices.

Argonne Core Values:

All activities, as they apply to work performed by self and working with others will be executed in compliance with the core values of Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity and Teamwork.

Job Family

Support Technical (ST)

Job Profile

High Voltage Electrician 3

Worker Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, Argonne encourages minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment. Argonne considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.  

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis.  Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements.  Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.



Argonne is an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity in our workforce. As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, Argonne prohibits discrimination or harassment based on an individual's age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, gender, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.


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