Power Distribution Specialist

About the role

The Power Distribution Specialist is part of Vanderbilt University Maintenance and Operations (VUMO) and serves as a key individual contributor responsible for the operation and maintenance of the electrical distribution system that provides power to the University and the Medical Center. The position requires strong attention to detail, analytic thinking, and a commitment to maintaining a high level of reliability of the electrical distribution system. This role does not have supervisory responsibility and reports administratively and functionally to the CoGen Assistant Manager.

VUMO is part of the Facilities Department, which reports to the Associate Vice Chancellor & Chief Facilities Officer. VUMO provides maintenance, cleaning, and other ancillary services for six million square feet of academic, laboratory, administrative, residential, and recreational space, as well as power generation and thermal utilities for both Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The Grounds team cares for 330 acres including a registered arboretum and SEC athletic fields. VUMO’s annual budget exceeds $100 million and includes over 500 employees. Facilities is part of the Vanderbilt University Real Estate, Facilities, and Development organization, which works collaboratively to build, maintain, manage, and operate campus infrastructure in a sustainable and cost-efficient manner to support the overarching academic mission and goals of the university.

Responsibilities

• Test 13,800 volt and 4,160 volt transformers, breakers, and switches
• Calibrate 13,800 volt relays and 4,160 volt relays
• Change out 13,800 volt relays and 4,160 volt relays
• Operate 69,000 volt and lower air break disconnects, circuit breakers, and associated equipment during standard and emergency switching procedures
• Inspect newly installed switch gear as well as existing switch gear preventative maintenance
• Inspect cables and equipment in underground vaults and tunnels
• Test 13,800 volt, 4,160 volt, and 480 volt cables
• Pull samples of transformer oil for testing
• Test motor starters on equipment
• Test ground loops in substations and buildings
• Test gas turbine driven generators 1 & 2
• Clean switch gear in substations and buildings
• Install and test electric meters on 13,800 volt and lower circuits
• Test electric motors and inspect installations
• Replace bearings in electric motors
• Use all testing equipment
• Use all programs for setting up equipment from computer
• Read electrical drawings, make revisions, and create new drawings as necessary
• Install electrical cables
• Install electrical conduit
• Pull medium and high voltage cabling
• Work with Electrical Engineers and contractors
• Work with vendors
• Work with OEM personnel
• Clean electrical equipment
• Work on Work Orders from other PO areas
• Operate fork truck
• Operate a bucket truck
• Operate department vehicles
• Perform other duties related to classification
• Install and test electric motors and variable speed drives

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Valid Driver License required; must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record (Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records)
• 5 years of previous experience necessary
• 3 years of experience in high voltage electrical operations required
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds