Field Engineer

Menard Electric is a distribution Cooperative which has been providing electricity and associated services to our consumer-members since 1936.Motivated by the hope for a better life in rural Central Illinois, a small group of local farmers sought assistance from the federal Rural Electrification Administration to expand electricity in an area where investor-owned utilities would not. We were built by the communities we serve!

We provide electric service to over 10, 900+ meters through a network of 2300+ miles of line including rural and urban residences, small farms and businesses, as well as large agricultural, commercial and industrial sites.

As a Field Engineer you will provide members with accurate guidance on new electric services, relocations and facility retirements. A Field Engineer contributes to the reliability and efficiency of the electric distribution system through sound engineering design and field support. The ideal candidate will be self-driven, service-oriented, analytical and able to build a strong rapport with our members.

• Design and stake distribution primary and secondary electric facilities. Typically, these would be for new construction, system improvements, relocations, increases in service capacity, and retirements.
• Advise members/electricians/contractors regarding new electric service, service upgrades, relocation of existing facilities, as well as National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements.
• Estimate costs for electric service installations which include applicable contributions towards aid to construction.
• Coordinate job scheduling between members and operation personnel.
• Assist the Engineering Manager in the development and execution of Construction Work Plan projects to improve system reliability.
• Conduct structural and electrical engineering studies to determine appropriate system design in compliance with Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) standards.
• Secure easements and right-of-way documentation as well as obtain necessary permits and permissions for facility construction and maintenance.
• Coordinate and perform J.U.L.I.E. locate requests and maintain locate database.
• Maintain and organize historical engineering and staking files.
• Create and review electronic staking sheets to ensure accuracy and design compliance.
• Advise members and public regarding engineering problems and safety issues regarding electrical service and work resolutions.
• Review joint use attachment proposals, create a design that resolves any structural or clearance concerns, determine required modifications and resolve any conflicts.
• Assist with outage restoration during storms, drawing up work orders, calling in J.U.L.I.E. emergency locate requests, and damage assessment.
• Provide assistance and backup support to other Engineering staff as necessary.

Becoming part of our Cooperative means joining a purpose-driven team that values collaboration, integrity and service to the community. As a member of our organization, you're not just an employee; you're a vital contributor to a mission that empowers people and builds a stronger, more sustainable future. We offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for growth, and the chance to make a real impact where it matters most - right here at home.

• Salary in the range of: $79,000 - $108,000
• Benefits include:

• +Medical Ins (HDPPO) or Opt Out Contribution
• +Health Savings Account w/Employer Contributions
• +LTD, Basic Life and ADD Insurance
• +Flex Spending (125)
• +Limited FSA Plan
• +Defined Contribution 401K Plan (Roth & Traditional)
• +12 Paid Holidays per year
• +Annual Merit Bonus Available

Menard Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity employer.

Job offer is contingent on results of pre-employment drug screen and background/driving record checks.

• Associate's degree in Engineering or at least six years of experience in a related field may be substituted for the education requirements.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft office software, i.e. Word, Excel and Access.
• Must be able to drive and maintain a current Illinois driver's license.

• Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft office software, i.e. Excel, Word, Access, staking software, CAD, and GIS.
• Four years of experience in utility staking and electric line design.

• Ability to handle emotionally challenging situations in a controlled manner.
• Ability to obtain a Staking and Line Design Certification.

• Indoor, climate-controlled environment approximately 50% of the time.
• Outdoor fieldwork in various weather conditions approximately 50% of the time.

• Approximately 50% of time spent traveling within the Cooperative's service territory.
• Occasional travel for meetings, seminars, and conferences may be required.