Director, Technical Services

PHYSICAL OFFICE LOCATION: PEC Haley Road Offices - 302 Haley Road, Johnson City, TX 78636 Position Summary This position is responsible for leading the Cooperative’s Technical Services team which is responsible for managing and developing grid infrastructure, power systems, power quality, reliability, advanced distribution equipment, SCADA controlled devices, Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The technical services team ensures optimal performance, maintenance, and development of advanced electric distribution assets. This role combines strategic direction with hands-on management of critical operational infrastructure, systems, and programs to support the Cooperative’s operational and financial goals. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Develop and implement long-term strategies for grid infrastructure, power systems, power quality, and reliability initiatives in alignment with the Cooperative's strategic plan. Lead and manage operations of Technical Services, Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), Geographic Information Systems (GIS) ensuring optimal performance, reliability and efficiency. Identify, prioritize, and execute tasks to meet critical deadlines for power projects and the implementation of critical operational infrastructure programs, while adhering to Cooperative policies. Establish predictive maintenance and condition-based maintenance programs for distribution equipment, including reclosers, voltage regulators, capacitors, and SCADA-controlled devices. Provide technical guidance on grid modernization and optimization initiatives and protocols for automation and self-healing networks. Develop Cooperative wide commissioning and testing standard operating procedures. Foster collaboration among departments (Engineering, IT, District Operations) to develop and implement strategic initiatives and ensure optimal performance, maintenance, and development of advanced electric distribution assets. Collaborate with vendors to drive development that aligns with the Cooperative's strategic initiatives through business assessments and gap analysis for operational infrastructure programs and power projects. Provide updates on advanced electric distribution assets, operational infrastructure programs and projects to other departments within the Cooperative. Create and oversee training programs for staff to ensure proper management of critical operational infrastructure, systems, and programs to support the Cooperative’s operational goals. Ensure GIS data integrity, develop data standards, and oversee system administration to support operational activities. Develop and manage department budgets to meet the Cooperative's financial goals; prepare reports for senior management and the Board. Establish metrics for measuring the success in management of critical operational infrastructure, systems, and programs to ensuring optimal performance, power quality, and reliability; prepare monthly reports for review. Implement Cooperative policies and procedures across technical services; supervise and evaluate staff performance and development. Maintain relationships with external vendors and industry stakeholders to ensure access to best practices and emerging technologies. Demonstrate regular and prompt attendance. Perform other related duties as necessary or assigned. Supervisory and/or Leadership Responsibilities A comprehensive range of supervisory activities, including training, evaluation, counseling, and termination recommendations. This involves effectively communicating organizational policies and information to staff, ensuring employees clearly understand their responsibilities. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Comprehensive knowledge of business management principles, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and budgeting. Expertise in grid infrastructure, power systems, power quality, reliability, advanced distribution equipment, and associated systems. Strong analytical, project management, and conflict resolution skills. Excellent communication abilities, both verbal and written, to engage effectively with diverse audiences. Familiarity with computer systems and the electric power industry, including advanced infrastructure programs. Knowledge of electric distribution system designs and operations, utility specifications, and the National Electric Safety Code. Understanding of electrical efficiencies and federal/state policies, as well as trends in alternative energy markets. Proficient in Smart Grid technology and developing technical best practices. Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate multidisciplinary work. Skilled in identifying defects, implementing process improvements, and creating forecasts. Ability to lead program and project management initiatives. Ensure the security of confidential information. Stay abreast of technological advancements. Prepare and present program and project status reports to senior management and the Board of Directors. Review, recommend, or approve contracts and cost estimates. Ability to cultivate a positive team environment. Foster a positive public image for the Cooperative by engaging in local, state, and national business and community groups and programs. Minimum Qualifications - (Education, Experience) Bachelor’s Degree in a related field Master’s degree preferred Directly related experience may substitute for education Ten years of relevant experience in utility technical services, including five years in a leadership role Valid Driver’s License Physical Demands and Work Environment The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee may be required to stand; reach with hands and arms, stoop and kneel. The employee may be required to sit or stand for long periods of time. The employee may be required to lift, carry, push, pull or move up to 25 pounds. The employee may be required to travel. Exempt employees receive a fixed bi-weekly salary to compensate them for all hours worked during each pay period. This position may be required to work more than 40 hours per week. This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of essential duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties that may be assigned based on the needs of the Cooperative. Position Open Until Filled Pedernales Electric Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr