Principle Duties & Responsibilities

Essential Function % TIME

• 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.

• 25%

• 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.

• 25%

• 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.

• 10%

• 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.

• 10%

• 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.

• 15%

• Respond to emergencies within the company’s established procedures, incident command system structure, and storm recovery structure: This includes working across geographic boundaries when necessary and completion of General Orders Training.

• 5%

• 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.

• 5%

• 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-yearawards.

• 5%

Disclaimers

• The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• High School Diploma/Equivalent Required

• Bachelor's Degree Science, engineering or business-related field Preferred

Work Experience

Experience Details Required/Preferred

• 4+ years Expert knowledge of utility forestry processes and procedures within qualifying industry experience and a documented history of progressive levels of responsibility. Required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• 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

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities KSAs Proficiency

• 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 driver’s license. High

Licenses and Certifications

Required/ Preferred

• Pesticide Applicator - State Licensure within 180 Days Required

• ISA Certified Arborist (or ability to obtain credential within 6 months). Required or

• ISA Certified Arborist, Utility Specialist endorsement. Preferred

Working Environment

• While performing the duties of this job, the associate is required to work within the selected working environments.

• Working Condition N/A Rarely Occasionally Frequently Constantly

• Extreme cold X

• Extreme heat X

• Humidity X

• Wet X

• Noise X

• Hazards X

• Temperature Change X

• Atmospheric Conditions X

• Vibration X

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*:

$93,800.00 - $140,700.00

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

Posting Start Date:

2025-05-06

Posting End Date (if applicable):

2025-05-19

Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

At NiSource, you'll be part of the team serving nearly four million customers throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, who count on us to energize their homes and businesses. Whether speaking with customers by phone, analyzing financial data or installing new gas lines in a neighborhood, you’ll meet exciting challenges each day and make the most of your skills and talents. And you’ll be part of a company that was named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers.

We're looking for talent from all backgrounds. We invite candidates of all abilities to come as they are and do what they love. Through our years of successful growth, we’ve stayed true to our roots by making a difference in the lives of millions of our customers. If you’re interested in joining an inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth, NiSource might be the place for you.