Supervisor Forestry Operations

Job Summary
A Field Leader supporting Electric and Gas Operations, the Supervisor of Forestry Operations provides leadership to a team of contracted suppliers directly responsible for the efficient and successful execution of a coordinated Utility Vegetation Management program and preventive maintenance plan. The Supervisor provides management of tree crews and utility work planners to support during emergencies on the Transmission & Distribution Electrical System. That support extends to Electric Line and Gas maintenance tasks, as well as construction projects and the installation of asset improvements. Projects managed by this leadership position typically range from $10k to $5M annually and projects are managed concurrently. This includes all aspects of budgeting, long term planning, scheduling, schedule adherence, safety, customer service, and contractor performance.

Essential Functions

• Develop, execute, and oversee Annual Work Plans for Electric Distribution, Sub-Transmission, Gas and Electric Transmission Vegetation Management: Determine and adhere to accurate budget forecasting and tracking; Monitor advancement, schedule, quality control, and cost effectiveness throughout the project life cycle. Approve project extensions, expenditures, and invoicing. Effective collaboration with stakeholders such as project managers, engineering, electric line operations, gas operations, environmental, etc. and ability to motivate stakeholders with varying priorities to accomplish a common goal.
• Actively manage contracted workforce for assigned geographic service territory, including 24 hour on-call tree crews, to ensure safe, reliable delivery of service: Onboard new suppliers; Evaluate projects for appropriate crewing and equipment; Research property ownership and customer contact information; Evaluate projects for environmental compliance and all appropriate state, federal, local permits. Schedule and coordinate planned outages.
• Demonstrate safety leadership by performing site inspections. Coach field crews on work techniques and industry BMPs to troubleshoot, motivate safe performance and support Continuous Improvement: Verify proper documentation and contractor qualifications; Provide additional support to larger or more complex projects to meet line clearance specifications and all anticipated project outcomes. Audit field crews for both safety and contract compliance. Various methods of transportation may be necessary to complete inspections: aerial, ground vehicle, walking, etc.
• Facilitate compliance with NIPSCO Safety Manuals and Policies by serving as a consistent and regular presence at work sites: Build relationships with internal and external groups to coordinate work efforts safely; Create and deliver training to all groups on departmental policies, programs, and safe work practices.
• Provide exceptional customer service: Perform timely investigations and resolution of customer complaints, inquiries and claims. Meet with municipal representatives and property owners regarding planned projects, routine trimming, and other planned work. Attend project walk-downs and meetings where necessary. Supervise operations in a manner that prioritizes public safety.
• Respond to emergencies within the companys established procedures, incident command system structure, and storm recovery structure: This includes working across geographic boundaries when necessary and completion of General Orders Training.
• Ensure optimal use of technology, resources, and input from internal stakeholders to prioritize work plans, adhere to schedules, and drive cost savings while maintaining regulatory compliance: Research, compile, and submit necessary IURC, NERC, DOT, and other compliance documents and reports. Adhere to all environmental regulatory requirements during day-to-day operations.
• In coordination with NiSource Supply Chain and Procurement, formulate project specifications, bid documents, and contract language for: Electric Line Clearance Maintenance and Demand, Gas and Electric Transmission Vegetation Management, Landscape Maintenance, Bare Ground Treatment, Herbicide Spray Program, Tree Replacement Program and Utility Work Planner annual and multi-year awards.
• Required Qualifications For Position
• High School Diploma
• 4-6 years Expert knowledge of utility forestry processes and procedures within qualifying industry experience and a documented history of progressive levels of responsibility.
• Thorough knowledge of forestry best practices and procedures, proper arboriculture pruning practices, tree growth response, tree biology and herbicide/pesticide applications. High
• Working knowledge of Gas and Electric Transmission and Distribution systems. Medium
• Working knowledge of federal regulating agencies such as FERC and NERC guidelines and standards and state agencies such as IURC Medium
• Working knowledge of OSHA and ANSI standard electric utility practices. High
• Demonstrated knowledge and ability to quickly assess and make sound decisions, especially in emergency situations High
• Working knowledge of Microsoft applications, ESRI applications and using database and documentation tools. Medium
• Thorough knowledge of reading and interpreting maps, prints, records, standards, and engineering drawings Medium
• Ability to organize and manage multiple concurrent projects under stringent deadlines, conditions, and schedules. Medium
• Thorough knowledge of wildfire risk and prevention strategies, hazardous tree removal and assessment Medium
• Working knowledge of supplier management principles. Understanding of RFP, contract bid specifications, and budget tracking Medium
• Valid drivers license. High
• Pesticide Applicator - State Licensure within 180 Days
• Preferred Additional Qualifications for Position
• Bachelor's Degree Science, engineering or business-related field
• Physical Demands
• Standing - Occasionally
• Walking - Frequently
• Sitting - Frequently
• Lifting - N/A
• Carrying - N/A
• Pushing - N/A
• Pulling - N/A
• Climbing - N/A
• Balancing - N/A
• Stooping - N/A
• Kneeling - N/A
• Crouching - N/A
• Crawling - N/A
• Reaching - N/A
• Handling - Rarely
• Grasping - Rarely
• Feeling - N/A
• Talking - Constantly
• Hearing - Constantly
• Repetitive Motions - N/A
• Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination - Frequently
• The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

As a public utility, NiSource is required to provide continuous service to customers at all times. To ensure we fulfill that obligation, employees may be required to work outside their normal work hours and perform tasks outside of their normal responsibilities in support of emergency operations.

Work Authorization

Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.

Workplace Connection
Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.

Respect the unique lived experiences within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represents all walks of life and all backgrounds.

Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity
NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities.

Safety Statement
Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

Salary Range*:

*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidates skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience , as well as internal pay equity .

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