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. Position may be required to work extended hours for coverage during storms or other power delivery emergencies.

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 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 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. 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.

• High School Diploma or GED 4+ years expert knowledge of utility forestry processes and procedures within qualifying industry…