Job Summary

Manages the administration of NiSource Operator Qualification (OQ) Programs to ensure compliance with federal OQ rule. Leads a team of OQ and project specialists that administers OQ requirements and guidelines.

Essential Functions

• Executes process improvement of the current OQ programs by managing elements of the design and the implementation of all NiSource OQ programs, either directly or through OQ team designation.

• Manages activities of direct reports and provides leadership coaching and development.

• Leads diverse team of qualified individuals with authority to hire, terminate, promote, demote, coach, develop and performance manage.

• Oversees the facilitation and communication with the implementation of OQ programs in all states, with particular emphasis on OQ program transitions (enhanced OQ).

• Maps and maintains processes to assure compliance and consistency.

• Actively seeks and incorporates feedback from key stakeholders related to performance and support.

• Maintenance of service-focused working relationships with Operations & Construction partners.

• Represents Pipeline Safety & Compliance as a subject matter expert in support of regulatory filings and proceedings at state and federal level.

• Manages and participates in processes to influence regulatory proceedings through industry associations and other opportunities.

• Builds, promotes and enhances collaborative relationships with Public Utility Commissions, industry associations, company affiliates and other potential business partners.

• Assists areas in preparation for utility commission audits.

• Collaborates with Pipeline Safety and Compliance Leaders, Training leaders, peers, local operations and construction partners to prepare preventative strategies to eliminate repeat offenses of non-compliance.

• Acts as a Key Stakeholder on decisions to update company O&M policies and procedures. Collaborates with Gas Standards to issue Operational Notices to affected parties internal and external.

• Prepares and submits periodic mandated reports to external agencies.

• Aligns individual objectives with department goals and projects to ensure that corporate needs and objectives are met.

• Maintains awareness of decision-making impacts to capital and O&M budgets and recommend best cost alternatives to meet budgetary constraints.

• Identifies training needs of staff and department.

• Attends conventions, conferences, etc., which relate to functions performed by the department.

• Provides seasoned operations consulting to internal and external partners such as Field Operations, Construction, Contractors, Gas Procurement, and Training.

• Designs and maintains program(s) to ensure consistent and compliant execution across NiSource.

• Regularly established communications with Training to properly prepare Operations & Construction personnel for OQ evaluation.

• Reviews and updates internal program documents as instructed due to regulatory developments, compliance evaluations and continuous improvement opportunities.

• Supports OQ programs by properly understanding task-level responsibilities and continuously communicating with those responsible for execution.

• Monitors program compliance by quality assurance / quality control processes, communication with stakeholders, and through OQ team assignments.

• Participates with Pipeline Safety and Compliance Leaders and peers in the development of strategies, policies and objectives for the enhancement of Operator Qualifications, ensuring that regulatory programs are integrated with overall Company goals and objectives.

• Evaluates and makes recommendations to proposed regulatory rules impacting program(s).

• Provides technical support to external agency program audits. Schedule and coordinate internal program audits, including preparing and responding to internal Audits and Tier II assessments.

• This position will require collaboration and facilitation on issues assuring understanding of all elements of all OQ programs among internal and external parties. Establishing and building key strategic relationships with vendors and industry associations will be essential. Leading the troubleshooting of start-up issues will be the responsibility of this position.

• Support Emergency Response in terms of dispatching support from their OQ team to assess, verify, confirm Operator Qualifications of Emergency Personnel performing the work, or to support mutual aid assistance planning.

• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications For Position

• Direct experience working across departments in a matrix organization

• Direct supervisory role, interdepartmental project management experience or comparable management experience that demonstrates the required skills and competencies to succeed in this role

• Ability to establish plans and meet deadlines

• Demonstrated leadership experience over complex programs or projects

• Demonstrated understanding of operating & maintaining a natural gas distribution system

• Demonstrated understanding of regulated gas distribution compliance and regulatory obligations

• Direct experience working across departments in a matrix organization

• Demonstrated knowledge of field operations practices, gas distribution Policies & Procedures, state and federal regulations (emphasis on US DOT 40 CFR Part 192 Subpart N and state supplemental requirements).

• Working knowledge of standard NiSource PC software suite.

• Demonstrated project management with delivery metrics

• Strong interpersonal skills

• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills, with ability to address all levels of operations from front-line to corporate office personnel

• Strong organizational & planning skills

Preferred Additional Qualifications for Position

• Bachelor's Degree in related field or equivalent work experience.

• 1-3 years Minimum 3 years of supervisory or extensive project management experience

• Previous supervisory or management experience within the gas or similar regulated utility industry

• Extensive understanding of NiSource gas operations

• Clearly demonstrated ability to think short-term/immediate and long-term/strategic planning.

• Understanding of Plant and Service operations, maintenance and construction

• Understanding of regulatory environments where NiSource gas distribution companies operate

Physical Demands

The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

Inclusion & Diversity

Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.

Respect and take into consideration diversity within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represent all walks of life and all backgrounds.

Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities.

Safety Statement

Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

Salary Range:

$107,000.00 - $160,500.00

Posting Start Date:

2024-05-03

Posting End Date (if applicable):

2024-05-18

Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

At NiSource, you'll be part of the team serving nearly four million customers throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, who count on us to energize their homes and businesses. Whether speaking with customers by phone, analyzing financial data or installing new gas lines in a neighborhood, you’ll meet exciting challenges each day and make the most of your skills and talents. And you’ll be part of a company that was named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers.

We're looking for talent from all backgrounds. We invite candidates of all abilities to come as they are and do what they love. Through our years of successful growth, we’ve stayed true to our roots by making a difference in the lives of millions of our customers. If you’re interested in joining an inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth, NiSource might be the place for you.