Utilities High Voltage Specialist

Overview

Under general supervision of the High Voltage Supervisor, maintain, support, and assist in the day‑to‑day operation and maintenance of the Argonne National Laboratory electrical transmission and distribution system.

• Respond to and resolve electrical emergencies and outages related to high voltage systems.
• Conduct diagnostic assessments, perform repairs, and implement solutions to restore power safely and efficiently.
• Locate and perform switching operations on transmission lines from 480V to 138KV.
• Assist or supervise contractors; operate electrical equipment such as overhead or underground high/low voltage items, lab‑wide roadway lighting, interrupters, transformers (oil and air‑cooled), substation equipment, motor control centers, and switch gear breakers.
• Work safely in varied conditions, including inclement weather, off‑shift 24/7 callouts, and elevated positions from bucket trucks.
• Conduct on‑site fault assessment, identify cause of electrical faults, and implement temporary fixes while planning permanent repairs.
• Coordinate with engineers, supervisors, and other team members to prioritize tasks and optimize response efforts.
• Execute diagnostic tests with specialized equipment to pinpoint location and nature of electrical problems.
• Repair or replace damaged components such as transformers, circuit breakers, switches, and overhead lines to restore service.
• Document all work performed, including troubleshooting steps, repairs made, and equipment status.
• Participate in training sessions and drills, 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.

• Minimum 10 years experience working with voltages up to 138kV, preferably in a utility or industrial environment.
• Certification, work qualification, or completion of an approved apprenticeship program qualifying the individual to perform work associated with OSHA Standard 29 CFR  Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship required to comply with federal regulations and contract.
• Overhead electrical line experience preferred.
• Valid CDL Class B license with air‑brake endorsement.
• Ability to follow protocols for isolating and de‑energizing high‑voltage equipment and developing switching orders.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting electrical faults and conducting root‑cause analysis.
• Knowledge of high‑voltage equipment, transformers, switch gear, relays, protective devices.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Excellent communication skills and capacity to work collaboratively in a team.
• Strong decision‑making and prioritization skills in high‑pressure situations.
• Proficient computer skills and familiarity with maintenance software.
• Experience in predictive maintenance methodologies desirable.
• Knowledge of vegetation management, including tree trimming, desirable.
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
• Out‑of‑state travel for training required until Argonne Qualified Electrical Worker training is completed.

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. Positions may require the individual to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment and considers all qualified applicants without regard to any characteristic protected by law.