Consider an Electric Cooperative Career
The search for a purposeful career can begin and end at your local electric cooperative because working toward a greater purpose is at the heart of the co-op business model. Electric co-ops are community-focused organizations that deliver safe, reliable and affordable energy to the consumer-members they serve.
Electric co-ops need a variety of skill sets to develop new technologies and infrastructure, keep the electric grid secure and power the lives and economy of our local communities.
Check out the job openings below. You may also post your résumé and search for employment with other Kansas electric cooperatives — and electric cooperatives in other states — by visiting our online nationwide Career Center.
KEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. KEC does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
Primary Accountability:
The HR Business Partner oversees the administration of Human Resources (HR) activities on a professional level and carries out responsibilities in benefits administration, performance management, recruitment/employment, onboarding, employment law compliance, and policy implementation.
Essential Duties:
- Coordinates and administers benefit plans including health, life and disability insurance plans, health spending accounts, retirement plans, employee assistance programs, vacation and sick leave benefits, and the Cooperative's wellness program.
- Assists with developing goals and objectives in accordance with the strategic initiatives of the Cooperative.
- Administers of the Cooperative's compensation and benefits policies to establish competitive programs and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Assists with organizing employee events to foster a positive workplace culture, boost morale, and encourage team cohesion.
Plans, implements, and evaluates employee relations and HR policies, programs, and practices, and ensuring compliance with various laws and regulations.
Administers the FMLA program in accordance with legal requirements and assists with training managers on how to communicate FMLA with human resources. - Facilitates the performance management program and ensures all employees have quarterly/annual performance reviews. Facilitates training on FreeState's performance management platform.
- Advises and coaches management on the Cooperative's policy matters such as counseling, disciplining, terminating, and other employee relations, including workplace investigations in accordance with grievances or harassment.
- Maintains DOT driver qualification files, as well as ensures DOT employees have current medical examiner certifications, driver's license, physicals, etc. Ensures MVRs and DOT queries are conducted on an annual basis.
- Partners with the Safety Manager on safety related incidents and investigations.
- Facilitates new employee orientation/onboarding and ensures new employees receive proper education and training in the areas of HR policies and benefits.
- Facilitates the recruitment process including advertising for open positions, interviewing, candidate comparison, completing background checks, and preparing job offer letters.
- Coordinates and maintains the workers compensation program by reviewing and processing claims and serving as the liaison between the insurance carrier and the Cooperative.
- Compiles and prepares employee demographic data for annual EEO-1 and VETS-4212 reports, as well as FreeState's affirmative action plan.
- Facilitates annual open enrollment for benefits which includes processing enrollment forms.
- Maintains job descriptions and ensures essential functions and physical demands are identified as well as ensures appropriate FLSA is assigned.
- Conducts audits of HR activities to ensure compliance with policies, procedures and applicable laws and regulations.
- Develops compensation and benefits policies to establish competitive programs and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Prepares documents, evaluates various reports, and recommends new approaches, policies and procedures to continually improve efficiency of services performed.
- Serves as an ambassador of the Cooperative by demonstrating and communicating a positive image and professionalism.
- Oversees and maintains the Cooperative's electronic confidential employment files and databases.
Qualifications:
- A Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or Business Administration from an accredited university is required.
- At least 5 Years of HR experience in recruitment, benefits administration, employee relations, and HR compliance is required.
- HR Certification is preferred or able to obtain within one year of employment.
- A valid driver's license is required.
- Knowledge of employee practices and related laws, regulations and standards is required.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and discretion in handling confidential and sensitive information.
- Strong communication, analytical, organizational, and multitasking skills.
- Ability to write reports, business correspondences and procedure manuals.
- Ability to effectively communicate, present information and respond to questions, both verbal and written.
- Ability to analyze data or information by identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
- Ability to organize, multi-task, plan and set priorities with minimal supervision.
- Ability to work independently and in team settings.
- Ability to exercise good judgment with a strong attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships across all levels of the Cooperative.
Electric Distribution Engineer
Midwest Energy, Incl, Hays, KS
COMPANY INFORMATION:
Midwest Energy, Inc., an electric and natural gas utility company, is seeking an entry level or experienced electrical engineer to work in its Hays, Kansas office. Midwest Energy serves 50,000 electric customers. The company has $164 million in total electric utility plant and 11,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines.
GENERAL FUNCTION:
Position involves electric distribution system planning using Misoft Windmil, protective device coordination, distribution and substation design and engineering support for the Operations Department. The position duties include (1) develop, plan, direct, coordinate and control the design, construction and operation of distribution facilities and support the system control functions so as to provide efficient, safe and reliable system operations; (2) support of the Outage Management System (OMS), (3) provide line and substation design engineering and construction support; and (4) investigate emerging developments in reliability and distribution technology.
EDUCATION:
Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university, with preference for power system-related studies. Experience in electric distribution system engineering is helpful but not required. Consideration will be given for related experience.
EXPERIENCE:
Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply, and related experience is not required. However, applicable experience includes all phases of electrical design, construction and maintenance with special emphasis in one or more of the following areas: distribution system planning and analysis, protection system coordination, line and substation design. Experience should include use of distribution analysis programs such as Milsoft or CYME or related electric utility experience. Professional registration, or the ability to become registered in the State of Kansas within 4 years is required.
JOB KNOWLEDGE:
This is an excellent opportunity to grow in an electrical engineering position with a solid organization that can provide a broad spectrum of experience.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Primary working conditions are office based. Must be able to sit and work at a computer for extended time periods. Field work is also required to gather information, inspect distribution facilities, monitor construction and maintenance activities, and assist in storm damage assessment and repair. Occasional work outside of normal business hours required.
Posting Close Date: May 9, 2024
Equal Opportunity Employer
To apply, visit the link below:
https://mwenergy.clearcompany.com/careers/jobs/eb5551ca-61d6-c5c5-53c6-b2ca79bfed4a/apply?source=3029581-CS-43756
Or visit our company career site:
Careers | Midwest Energy (mwenergy.com)
Prairie Land Electric Cooperative has an immediate job opening for an Accountant position. The Accountant is responsible for providing accurate statistical and financial reports required for the effective operation and management of the Cooperative. Primary accounting responsibilities include general ledger and subsidiary ledger activities and reconciliation, as well as bank reconciliation, work order accounting, accounts payable, miscellaneous receivables, and backup for others in the accounting department. The position will require positive working relationships, personal integrity, confidentiality, and dedication to the cooperative principles and core values.
The Prairie Land Accounting team member must be able to uphold the cooperative values of safety, respect, integrity, unity, and accountability in all processes and applications.
Applications or questions can be sent to April Karnopp, director of administration, akarnopp@ple.coop, or call 785-877-3323 for more information.
The electrical engineer will perform professional engineering work to evaluate and recommend distribution planning practices and procedures for Prairie Land and its members. The position will provide support to achieve the lowest cost and most reliable and environmentally sound electric distribution possible.
Applications can be sent to akarnopp@ple.coop.
The Prairie Land Journeyman lineman will assist with the construction, operation, maintenance and servicing of all electric transmission and distribution facilities. They will maintain safe and good working conditions in accordance with established industry practices following policies and procedures of the Cooperative as an effective guide to operation. This position will require positive working relationships, personal integrity and dedication to the cooperative principles. Requires Journeyman certification.
Must locate to Norton, in western Kansas
Application and resume can be sent to akarnopp@ple.coop, director of administration. Positions open until filled.
Prairie Land is seeking a full-time Member Service Representative in our Norton office that is highly motivated and member oriented. The successful candidate must have excellent language and interpersonal skills, strong organizational abilities, and must be detail oriented to perform all aspects of member requests over the telephone and in person. Extensive knowledge of computers and software including Microsoft Office products is required.
Application and resume can be sent to akarnopp@ple.coop, director of administration. Positions open until filled.
Interested individuals can review and apply for the Journeyman Lineman position at Belleville here: https://rollinghills.coop/form/journeyman-lineman-application-b.
Review all open positions by visiting the career page at https://rollinghills.coop/careers.
Interested individuals can review and apply for the Journeyman Lineman position at Beloit here: https://www.rollinghills.coop/form/journeyman-lineman.
Review all open positions by visiting the career page at https://rollinghills.coop/careers.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Administrative Assistant position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=867
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Coal and Material Handler Helper position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=871
Many Sunflower positions are part of a training program, which requires employees to promote through the department upon completion of training. This union position has a training rate of $29.88/hr.
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Mechanic I - Sr position here:https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=866
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Metering Technician Apprentice position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=873
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Operator Technician EIC I-IV position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=862
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Operator Technician Mechanic I-IV position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=842
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Operator Technician Mechanic I-IV position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=858
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Purchasing & Contract Specialist position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=869
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Substation Technician Apprentice – Journey position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=870
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
Interested individuals can learn about this opportunity and apply for the Supply Chain Coordinator position here: https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=SEPC&cws=37&rid=874
Applicants can review all the open positions by visiting Sunflower's career page at https://www.sunflower.net/careers/ and select Job Opportunities.
CEO/General Manager
Western Cooperative Electric Association, Inc.
WaKeeney, Kansas
The nine-member Board of Directors of Western Cooperative Electric Association (WCE) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of CEO/General Manager. The current GM has announced his retirement effective early January 2025. The Board has contracted with Holmes’ Executive Search to facilitate the search process.
The successful candidate will be a person of high integrity with broad electric utility management experience including such areas as strategic planning, member communications, operations, finance, and board/member/governmental relations. The individual will have excellent people and communications skills, a proven leadership ability, strong business acumen, a focus on safety, and a dedication to building and nurturing a healthy team environment. Must fully endorse the 7 Cooperative Principles. The new CEO will be expected to interact within the communities that WCE serves. Candidates must have electric utility experience with at least three years in a progressively responsible leadership position, preferably at an electric cooperative. A bachelor’s degree in business or a technical field, an advanced degree such as an MBA or completion of NRECA’s MIP program, is a plus; however, the Board will consider candidates with a combination of adequate education and experience.
WCE (www.westerncoop.com) is a financially sound, member-owned electric distribution cooperative whose mission is to provide its consumer-owners with reliable electricity and responsive service at an affordable price. WCE was formed in 1945 to bring electricity to eight counties of Northwest Kansas. With the Aquila purchase in 2007, WCE's service territory was expanded to 13 total counties. Currently WCE serves more than 12,000 meters, maintains over 4,000 miles of line, and employs 52 employees. The Co-op has annual revenues of $40 million with a significant commercial load, and a plant investment of $111 million. It receives its wholesale power from Sunflower Electric Cooperative and is a member of KEC, NRECA, CFC, and CoBank. It is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative and an RUS borrower.
The headquarters for WCE is in WaKeeney with newly updated facilities located at its outposts in Ellsworth, Olmitz, and Plainville. WaKeeney, population of 1800, is conveniently located on the crossroads of Interstate 70 and US Hwy 283, halfway between Denver and Kansas City. WCE's service territory is steeped with consumers that have a strong heritage in family and agriculture. Crude oil production also plays a key role in the local economy. WaKeeney is proud of its own health care facility, Trego-Lemke Memorial Hospital, and its good school system. Post-secondary education is available at several nearby community colleges including Colby Community College and Barton County Community College, both being near WEC’s service territory. Fort Hays State University located 30 miles away in Hays offers a multitude of classes and post graduate degrees. Recreational activities in and around WaKeeney include Cedar Bluff Reservoir, Big Creek Golf Course, a modern swimming pool, and good wild game hunting opportunities.
WCE is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers an excellent retirement plan through NRECA, competitive benefit programs and a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications. Interested parties should direct their inquiries to Holmes Executive Search and submit the following electronically:
- Cover letter
- A two to three-page resume
- Minimum of three professional references or letters of recommendation
Applications must be received by September 14, 2024 and submitted to:
Tammy Lehman, Holmes Executive Search
Ken@HolmesExecutiveSearch.com
(785) 764-0296
All replies are confidential.
Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a member owned electrical distribution cooperative dedicated to "Delivering Energy for Life" to our communities in western and central Kansas. We have an opening for a Consumer Services Representative I. This job is located in our Scott City, Kansas office. Our employees are welcoming and committed to your success and to the success of the department. You will be empowered and exposed to situations that will utilize your member service and communication experience and knowledge of cash handling, account maintenance, and new service setup. You'll have learning opportunities in multiple aspects of cooperative member service and account set-up and maintenance.
Opportunities:
- Work on different aspects of utility account maintenance and support.
- Provide support to achieve the lowest cost, most reliable, and environmentally efficient electricity distribution.
- Enjoy the friendly, hometown atmosphere and give back to your community.
- Be part of a team who is dedicated, inviting, and knowledgeable.
- Receive outstanding benefits including a company funded pension and 401(k) match, low health insurance premiums, paid vacation, sick, and holiday time, company paid group term life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, company paid long term disability insurance, employee assistance program, and a continuing education program.
- Gain experience in an electric utility to further your career, including technical and soft skills.
Summary: Responsible for managing Cooperative member accounts in a professional and timely manner. Efficiently and accurately process cash receipts, changes to service, manage member accounts and maintain individual cash drawers. Responsible for accurately adding new service and equipment into software as installed. Audits member accounts for billing accuracy. Determines needs of members and general public visiting Cooperative offices; escorts or directs to the proper person or department for desired information and/or assistance. To demonstrate to members, co‐workers, and the general public a positive member‐service experience when handling telephone traffic and personal visits to the Cooperative.
Top Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Knowledgeable in Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
- Knowledge of principles and processes for providing exceptional member service. Ability to resolve complex and sensitive member service problems while remaining calm and professional during member contacts that can be high stress and verbally abusive.
- Able to communicate effectively in writing and verbally. Able to listen and interpret what individuals are asking/telling you.
- Able to maintain confidential Cooperative and employee information.
- Able to research complex and sensitive member service problems through research and investigation of work papers, and discussions with member to find solutions that best benefits the member within Cooperative guidelines.
- Able to independently search out learning opportunities to expand and update consumer service knowledge.
- Able to evaluate a posed question or problem and make competent decisions within a reasonable amount of time.
- Able to keep files, schedules, and projects organized.
- Detail Oriented.
To review the Job Description for a complete list of qualifications and essential functions and to apply please go to https://www.applicantpro.com/openings/weci/jobs/3383677-673489.
Wheatland is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Our Mission: Delivering Energy for Life-Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc., a member owned distribution cooperative headquartered in Scott City, Kansas, was established in 1948 as a distribution and power cooperative in the state of Kansas. Today, Wheatland Electric serves more than 33,000 electric meters in 14 Kansas counties and three Colorado counties and maintains over 4,000 miles of distribution power lines across southwest and central Kansas and eastern Colorado. Together, with the help of our members, we are committed to building a better and stronger rural America.
Opportunities:
- Join an award-winning Member Services department that strives to increase Wheatland's visibility and member engagement in the communities we serve.
- Receive outstanding benefits including a company funded pension and 401(k) match, low health insurance premiums, paid vacation, sick, and holiday time, company paid group term life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, company paid long term disability insurance, employee assistance program, and a continuing education program.
Summary:
The Member Services Coordinator plays a vital role in ensuring the efficient operation of our various programs. This position requires exceptional organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate seamlessly with other departments, members, and the community to drive success and make a difference. This position is located in Scott City, Kansas. Join us in powering connections and energizing communities - seize the opportunity to be an integral part of Wheatland's commitment to excellence!
Top Qualifications:
- High School diploma or equivalent and minimum of two years' experience in customer service or associate degree in business or related field and one year of experience in customer service or, a combination of education and experience providing equivalent knowledge. Experience within the electric industry preferred.
- Communication Skills:
- Strong Verbal and Written Communication - ability to express ideas clearly in both spoken and written form. This includes using proper grammar and punctuation as well as the ability to tailor your communication style to a wide variety of individuals both internally and externally.
- Effective Communicator - ability to communicate but do so in a way that is efficient and understandable.
- Listening Skills - ability to actively listen to others.
- Team Collaboration - work well with others and convey ideas in a team setting.
- Presentation Skills - ability to communicate effectively in a public speaking context.
- Interpersonal Skills - The ability to work effectively with others individually and in a team environment.
- Organization - The ability to keep files, schedules and projects organized.
- Detail Oriented - The ability to pay attention to details.
- Time Management - Managing one's own time. This includes the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
To review the Job Description for a complete list of qualifications and essential functions and to apply please go to https://www.applicantpro.com/openings/weci/jobs/3381830-673489.
Wheatland is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Norris Public Power District is accepting applications for an apprentice/journeyman lineman.
This position is located at the Roca, Nebraska location.
The Apprentice/Journeyman Lineman will perform the work required in the construction of distribution lines, transmission lines, services, and substations of the District as well as assist in the operations, maintenance and repair of lines, substations, and facilities as required.
Qualified applicants will have an Associate’s Degree in Utility Line and have the ability to maintain a valid Nebraska commercial driver’s license. Qualified applicants will be proficient in operating a chainsaw, brush chippers, aerial basket trucks and other equipment necessary to perform the duties of the position. They will have the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.
Interested applicants should submit their resume with work experience to:
Norris Public Power District
Attn: Jamie Niederklein
P.O. Box 399
Beatrice, NE 68310
hr@norrispower.com
This position is responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of overhead and underground power distribution and sub-transmission lines within the scope of his/her training and certification and must perform these tasks in a safe and efficient manner and within the operating standards of the District.
Operations
- Observes and practices all safety policies and bulletins.
- Participates in training and safety meetings.
- Follows District policies and procedures and seeks input when information is unclear, inadequate, or requires interpretation.
- Completes any necessary paperwork accurately and timely for office operations.
- Operates and maintains District vehicles and equipment in a safe manner.
- Cuts right-of-way, trims trees, sprays, and chips brush to maintain the District's distribution system.
- Loads and unloads material and equipment and sees that line trucks are kept stocked with sufficient inventory of supplies to make emergency repairs.
- Operates radio communications equipment, abiding by the Federal Communications Commission's Rules & Regulations.
- Read meters and collect bills as directed.
- Provide On-Call assistance as directed.
- Assist Journeymen Lineman and Foremen as directed.
- Promote and maintain good customer relations.
- Protect the District's and the customer's property when carrying out assignments.
Job Requirements
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with all District employees and customers.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the public.
- Proficient with operating chain saws, brush chippers, aerial basket trucks and other equipment that are necessary to perform the duties of the position.
- Comprehend maps, service orders and job orders.
- Must be reliable and able to work independently.
- Understand, speak, and write the English language.
- Maintain a valid Nebraska commercial driver's license (Class "A") and the dexterity to operate a motor vehicle.
- Must meet residency requirements as outlined in the IBEW contract.
- Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance and punctuality.
Education and Qualifications
- Associate's degree in Utility Line or a minimum of 2 years experience as a ground-man or other relevant work experience.
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position 25% of the time.
- Primarily outside work that is subject to severe weather conditions and irregular hours for emergencies.
- Constantly working in uneven surfaces and carrying equipment and tools weighing up to 50 pounds across field work with occasional lifting of up to 75 pounds.
- Must be capable of traversinq lonq distances.
- Constantly positions self to operate equipment.
- Must be capable of ascending and descending wood poles and working aloft.
- Constantly bending, stooping, squatting, balancing, pushing and pulling.
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and the general nature and level of work performed for individuals with this job title. However, this job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all qualifications, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities or working conditions associated with the position.
Norris Public Power District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal opportunity will be extended to all applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, genetic disposition, past or present military service, gender identity, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions are based on education, qualifications, and experience.