Consider joining one of East Idaho’s oldest & most innovative employers!

Come help us build the future of Fall River. We are seeking an experienced, highly skilled and organized Staff Engineer for Fall River Rural Electric Cooperative. Located near Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks, we are a nonprofit, customer owned electric utility committed to safely and economically provide reliable energy and other services which bring value to our membership.

Position Summary:

The System Engineer will work under the direction of the Manager of Engineering and is responsible for all engineering design aspects of the Co-Op’s electrical system. This individual analyzes the electrical system for safe efficient operation and monitors system reliability and resolves areas of concern as necessary. Responsible for system planning, design and reliability. Ensures that construction of facilities for the system are based on sound engineering designs and that they are constructed in coordination with the system long range plan.  Provides supportive information and documents for complete and accurate records and statistical reports that will ensure effective management.

Qualifications

Qualified candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering with emphasis in power systems preferred. Five years’ work experience is desired.

Please see additional details and apply at: In addition to an outstanding career opportunity, Fall River Electric offers:

  • Competitive salary and paid time off
  • Friendly and positive work environment
  • Full health benefits and retirement plans

To view the basic job description and apply visit:    https://fallriverelectric.bamboohr.com/careers

Position Summary:  Assists in the implementation of engineering-related projects and functions of Vigilante Electric Cooperative (VEC) in accordance with established objectives, plans, procedures, policies, and budgets that results in reliable and safe electric energy delivery service at the best value to member-consumers. This includes overseeing system integrity and reliability programs, distribution design, system planning, metering, substation maintenance, drone review program, and construction work plan development.   

Responsibilities and Competencies: The following responsibilities and competency statements are essential functions of this position and are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job function. These statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities of personnel so classified. The person in this position may be directed to perform additional duties as assigned by the General Manager.

General Responsibilities:

  • Participates in educational training and conferences as needed to maintain progressiveness and knowledge in job related areas.
  • Works collaboratively with all the staff to determine priorities and to discuss work status, related problems, and solutions of issues and problems at staff meetings and on a one-to-one basis.
  • Promotes, develops, and maintains good morale and team spirit.
  • Maintains the confidentiality of any work-related information he/she encounters.
  • In support of the vision and direction of the General Manager, develops and maintains a positive, constructive, and supportive working relationship with employees.
  • Actively participates in monthly safety meetings promoting a safe working environment across all departments within VEC.

Engineering Services Responsibilities:

  • Working in collaboration with other VEC staff and engineering consultants, serving as the lead in the development of multi-year construction work plans, including overseeing inputs to the plan such as engineering studies, load projections, circuit modeling, distribution mapping of facilities, asset management, and system planning.

  • Utilizes existing and new software for effective short and long-range engineering work plans and related engineering studies such as system capacitor studies, voltage condition studies, and system sectionalizing studies. Recommends and initiates actions when necessary to correct any undesirable conditions and to maintain overall system integrity.
  • Reviews and analyzes system outage records and reports and works collaboratively to recommend changes to mitigate adverse outage situations in order to provide standard reliable continuity of service.
  • Maintains load growth trend data for all areas of the system and analyzes its significance in relation to existing plan capabilities.
  • Assists in the field design function to construct, operate, maintain, and retire the Cooperative’s electric distribution system facilities, including the acquisition of rights-of-way for crossing members’ and public property.
  • Assists in metering technical functions, including providing assistance as needed in sizing transformers and service conductors to large power loads, ensuring quality work regarding the wiring of CT and PT metering installations, and overseeing metering programs, including the programming and application of three-phase electronic meters.
  • Assists in the effective coordination of electric system design, construction, operation, and maintenance of the distribution system.
  • Participates in the VEC Standards Committee by researching and recommending changes in operations and equipment to better utilize the electric system, reduce costs, and provide reliable electric service. 
  • Assists in the analysis and inspection of substations and other electric system facilities to assure uniform construction according to established standards and specification, adequate maintenance, and overall reliability of the distribution system.
  • Assists in the development of specifications of substation equipment, overseeing the internal and consultant designs of new substations and designs of necessary modification to existing substations, and supervises such projects.
  • Assists in the implementation of VEC’s oil spill prevention and PCB program.
  • Assists in the overall utilization of the mapping system and automatic meter reading program.
  • As needed, reviews and updates environmental plans, including periodically reviewing SPCC plans for existing substations, and assists in developing new spill plans for new stations.
  • Assists in the development of specifications for the acquisition of electric materials and equipment required for reliable operation of the electric system.
  • Assists, as needed, with the emergency restoration of the system and storm damage restoration.
  • Assists with the coordination and development of the Cooperative’s safety plan and safety accreditation (RESAP) process.
  • Becomes familiar with and remains current on all related procedures, regulations, and standards, including National Electric Code, National Electric Safety Code, OSHA, IEEE, and other local governing electrical codes.
  • As required, responds to member inquiries on critical issues and ensures the Cooperative maintains a good, positive working relationship with members by providing prompt, courteous and reliable service.
  • Actively participates as a member in quarterly Standards Committee Meetings and Safety Committee Meetings.

Competencies:

  • Follows policies and procedures; upholds organizational values; works with ethics and integrity.
  • Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations.
  • Manages difficult or emotional member situations; responds promptly to member needs; solicits member feedback to improve service; responds to requests for service and assistance.

Position Description: Electrical Engineer, Continued

  • Focuses on solving conflicts; listens to others without interrupting; keeps emotions under control; remains open to new and to others’ ideas.
  • Speaks and writes clearly and informatively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; responds well to questions; participates in meetings.
  • Develops workable implementation plans; communicates changes effectively; prepares and supports those affected by change; monitors transition and evaluates results.
  • Approaches others in a tactful manner; reacts well under pressure; accepts responsibility for own actions.
  • Pursues training and development opportunities; strives to continually build knowledge and skills; shares expertise with others.
  • Observes safety and security procedures; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly.
  • Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness.
  • Treats people with respect in actions and speech; supports affirmative action and respects diversity.
  • Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; includes appropriate people in decision making process.
  • Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time effectively; sets and achieves challenging goals.
  • Adapts to changes in work environment; manages competing demands.
  • Volunteers readily; asks for and offers help when needed.
  • Maintains and promotes a positive, professional attitude.
  • Views the Cooperative as a unit of interdependent functions and assists when needed.
  • Is consistently at work and on time; ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and or ability required. Position holder must hold and maintain a valid Montana Driver’s License.

Education/Experience: Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university is required. Montana PE license or ability to acquire a Montana PE license is preferred.   Minimum of two year’s experience in the electric utility industry is preferred.

Knowledge: Must have a working knowledge of distribution electric energy delivery and proper application to the rural market. Specific knowledge of electric energy delivery to irrigation accounts is preferred. Working knowledge of RUS specifications, National Electric Code, National Electrical Safety Code, IEEE, and other pertinent specifications and requirements is preferred.  Working knowledge of NISC Billing/CIS software, Futura mapping software and Milsoft engineering software is preferred.

Abilities & Skills: Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Must relate well with all types of people and have the ability to listen, as well as to present and explain circumstances and results. Must be able to handle confidential information and gain the respect of others. Must be able to positively represent the Cooperative and effectively communicate with the general public. Must have a general understanding of utility-applied technology to proficiently utilize technology applications in support of the departments and Cooperative’s objectives and requirements.

Physical Demands:  The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to rollie@vec.coop. 

Vigilante Electric Cooperative Logo

 

NorVal Electric Cooperative, Inc. is seeking qualified applicants for the position of journeyman lineman and/or apprentice lineman based in Opheim, Montana.  NorVal is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative with headquarters located in Glasgow, MT.  Currently serving over 3,400 meters within a service territory of five counties.  NorVal owns and maintains approximately 2,200 miles of electric power distribution lines and 193 miles of transmission line.

This position will perform assigned work related to construction, maintenance, and repair of overhead and underground electric distribution system, and related equipment.  Requirements will include working in inclement weather conditions, working overtime, and being on-call as required.

RUS/Cooperative background is highly desirable; experience in Hot Line preventive maintenance work with rubber gloves and hot line tools is required as well as knowledge of all line materials, assemblies, equipment, and apparatus.  Applicants must possess a high school education (or equivalent), certification from an accredited Power Line Program, in addition to a 4-year Apprenticeship Program.  Applicants must possess, or be able to possess, a Class A CDL with air brakes.

This position includes an excellent NRECA benefits package including 401(k), paid vacation, and medical insurance.  NorVal is an equal opportunity employer.

Wages depend on level of experience.

Qualified applicants can send their resume to NorVal Electric Cooperative, Inc. at PO Box 951, Glasgow, MT 59230, attn: Nick Dulaney.  Your resume may also be emailed nick@norval.coop.  This position will remain open until filled.  If you have any questions please call (406) 228-9351.

Executive Director

A collage of people standing in front of a building Description automatically generated

Northwest Public Power Association (NWPPA), located in Vancouver, WA is a premier regional organization representing and supporting more than 150 customer-owned, locally controlled utilities in the Western U.S. and Canada.  The association also serves over 350 associate members across the region who are allied with the electric utility industry.  

The Board of Trustees of NWPPA is seeking a visionary and dynamic leader with demonstrated industry leadership experience and solid interpersonal skills to serve as their next Executive Director. The NWPPA Board has retained NRECA Executive Search to facilitate the search process.

About NWPPA

NWPPA was founded in 1940 to serve the collective interests of cooperatives, public and people’s utility districts, municipalities, and mutual public power utilities throughout the region. The association exists to enhance the success of its members through education, training, public information, government relations, and value-added services.

NWPPA was formed with the idea that public utilities should come together to share ideas and information, to network, and to have a collective voice. After more than 80 years, the association continues to follow this as their guiding light with the programs and services that they offer to their members. The three pillars that guide their work are workforce education and development; being an active voice in western and national legislation and regulation; and timely, industry-relevant communication and information.

The Ideal Candidate

As the Executive Director of NWPPA, you will be at the forefront of driving strategic initiatives for the association and advocating for consumer-owned utilities.  You will lead a talented team of 13 professionals and work closely with the Association’s 39-member board to ensure continued success and influence in the region.

The successful candidate will be a well-rounded leader with a commitment to NWPPA and its members, as well as an understanding of regional public power issues.  

Leadership Competencies

  • Exceptional communication skills, both formally and informally: Listens, relates and expresses oneself in a manner that is effective while supporting mutual understanding.
  • Ability to motivate and positively influence others: Motivates others towards an outcome consistent with the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
  • Vision and strategic orientation: Takes a broad scale long-term view that focuses on the future needs of the organization and its members.
  • Ability to lead change and manage risk: Identifies and actively manages change and risk throughout the organization.
  • Analytical thinking and decision making: Innovative and hands-on leader who thinks like an owner of the business, using fact-based decision-making processes supported by data and a sound decision methodology.
  • Member focus: Is proactive - not reactive - to the needs and concerns of the association’s members.
  • Industry Influence: Has extensive knowledge of the industry and uses this knowledge to impact the future direction of the industry by establishing and nurturing relationships with government officials, agencies, and stakeholders.   

Experience and Expertise

  • Bachelor’s Degree is required; an MBA or other advanced degree is a plus.
  • Education or Experience in Accounting & Finance, Legal, Communications or Business is preferred.
  • At least 7 years of leadership experience is required.
  • At least 5 years of electric utility experience is required.
  • Strong understanding of the electric power industry and its regional challenges, including regulatory frameworks, legislative processes, and stakeholder dynamics is crucial.
  • Trade Association experience will set you apart.
  • A commitment to public power is key!

Our Location   

While NWPPA is located in Vancouver, WA, the successful candidate can live within the greater Portland-Vancouver Metro area. The region is a blend of vibrant cityscapes and breathtaking landscapes. Set against the backdrop of majestic mountains, lush forests, and the winding Columbia River, this area boasts a rich cultural scene, eclectic neighborhoods, quality educational institutions, top-notch medical facilities, and a commitment to sustainable living.

Abundant recreation opportunities including Mt. Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, the Oregon Coast, and the pastoral wine country of the Willamette Valley are all within a two-hour drive of the metro area. Vancouver has excellent public transportation, a mild climate, no personal or corporate income tax, and was ranked 56th of the top 100 places to live in the United States in a 2022 survey.  

Our Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position is $275,000 to $375,000, depending on experience and qualifications.  NWPPA also provides an outstanding benefits package that includes a Traditional Pension Plan AND a 401(k) with a Company Match.

NWPPA is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer. Race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, military, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other applicable status protected by Federal, State or Local law are not taken into account in any employment decision. Learn more about us at https://www.nwppa.org/

How to Apply

If interested, please apply at https://nreca.applytojob.com/apply/eaWvGufPuE/Northwest-Public-Power-Association-NWPPA-Executive-Director  with the following: 1) Cover letter, 2) resume and 3) contact information (including emails) for 3 professional references. Applications must be received by August 25, 2023. If you have any questions, please contact Leigh Taylor, NRECA Executive Search, leigh.taylor@nreca.coop.

All replies are confidential.

VP of Electric Operations:

This person will engineer and supervise utility planning and operations to ensure contract and regulatory compliance, cyber security, efficient resource management, facilities and fleet management and construction projects meet the needs of Hill County Electric’s system planning, members, and industry partners. Will oversee all employees and contractors assigned to carry out their related job functions to make certain that high quality, affordable, reliable electric utility services are available to our members. Ensure a culture of safety is promoted to all employees and they receive required safety training to maintain compliance with all State and Federal safety rules.

Expected Qualifications

Education, Experience, Certifications, and License Required:

  •  BA or BS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent degree or experience.
  • Ten years of industry related experience in electric distribution or related field work experience.
  •  Five years of supervisory experience.
  •  Valid Montana driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record, must obtain within 90 days if you do not possess at time of employment.
  •  Must pass pre-employment drug screen.
  • Must relocate to Havre, Montana Full-Time.  Relocation assistance may be available.

Preferred:

  • Experience collaborating with employees who are members of a collective bargaining unit, shop stewards, and the I.B.E.W. local Union No. 44 representatives and with interpreting and adhering to related collective bargaining agreements.
  •  Experience with iVUE®, and Mil-Soft utility software.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  •  Knowledgeable of the Cooperative model and the I.B.E.W. local Union No. 44 agreement operations, policies, and procedures.
  •  Knowledge of state and federal statues, rules, codes, and regulations relating to the Electric Distribution.
  •  Knowledge and experience of engineering principles, concepts, and practices, construction specifications and contracts, and other appropriate codes, statutes, and utility tariffs.
  • Knowledge of preparing federal and state regulatory reports for management and measuring results.
  • Knowledge of budget techniques and practices for efficient and cost-effective management of resources.
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of legal, ethical, and professional rules of conduct.
  • Knowledge of personal computers in a Windows environment, including use of Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Knowledge of NEC Code and all Safety Practices related to OSHA and the electric transmission and distribution system.
  • Skill in reading, interpreting, understanding, and applying Cooperative’s policies and procedures along with the agreement between the Cooperative and the I.B.E.W. local Union No. 44.
  • Skill in analyzing processes for efficiency and make recommendations for improvement.
  • Skill in servant leadership, coordinating staff, assessing, and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects and demands, and delegating tasks and authority.
  • Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relations and work functionally across all levels of the organization.
  • Skill in developing and administering a comprehensive operations and capital budget.
  • Skill in establishing and maintaining working relations with coworkers, other Cooperative employees and representatives, and the members.

Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

Interested candidates may apply by visiting the website https://www.hcelectric.com/

Tongue River Electric Cooperative (TRECO) is searching for a talented, self-motivated, goal oriented, hands-on person to fill this technical position. This is an exciting opportunity for a results-oriented, analytical, problem-solver who will balance working independently on engineering projects and working with teams, providing work direction and advice to staking
engineers/technicians and line workers. This position reports to the Cooperative General Manager.


The major responsibilities include designing and modeling system plant design for continuous improvement and compliance; coordinating the engineering functions with the staking technicians team and line worker team and others; providing input and coordination to the contractors of TRECO on methods and system design for construction, maintenance and operation; plus developing member support and understanding of the engineering upgrades as they pertain to the membership.


If you are Interested in this opportunity, please send a cover letter, resume and three references to the below address.

Must be received by September 29, 2023


Tongue River Electric Cooperative
Attn: Tary Hanson
PO Box 138
Ashland, MT 59003


EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in Engineering is required. PE license preferred but must have an EIT License and Certification.


EXPERIENCE: Two to five years of experience is preferred. Experience with a rural electric distribution system is preferred.


QUALIFICATIONS:
• Be capable of directing the work of the staking engineers/linemen
• Provide engineering advice on methods of electrical system design, construction, maintenance, and operations to various levels of employees or members.
• Develop plans and schedules for electric distribution system improvement requirements.
• Direct corrections to voltage, power factor, and load factor problems.
• Perform regular reviews and analyses to determine methods for improving safety, productivity, and continuity of electrical service.
• Prepare contracts for line construction, maintenance, and system improvements, and assist in supervising those contractors.
• Have the ability to communicate effectively with management, employees, members, and others.
• Be able to work effectively on a daily basis with diverse teams and members with the ability to communicate patiently, respectfully and effectively to all levels of people.
 

Posted: August 25, 2023

Position: Line Superintendent

Location: Red Lodge, Montana

Type: Full Time

Salary: $105,000 to $130,000 DOE

Required Education: HS diploma/equivalent and a Journeyman Lineman Certificate or Bachelor of Engineering Degree.

Under the direction of the General Manager, the Line Superintendent will oversee the safe construction, operation, and maintenance of the electric distribution and sub-transmission system.  

 Essential Job Functions:

  • Supervise and direct Line Crew Foremen and contract construction crews in the construction, operation, and maintenance of overhead and underground transmission and distribution facilities.
  • Possess and maintain knowledge and understanding of Rural Utilities Service (RUS), National Electric Safety Code (NESC), Cooperative Safety Manual, and other applicable standards and regulations to ensure that the Cooperative’s distribution facilities are constructed and operated in a safe and efficient manner, consistent with these standards.
  • Oversee the planning, organization, and scheduling of all work released to the Operations department to maximize safety, efficiency, and productivity.
  • Lead the restoration and coordination efforts during large outage events.
  • Assist in securing personnel, equipment, and materials in preparation for weather-related restoration efforts.
  • Perform job site visits of service and construction crews to ensure adherence to safety and construction standards.
  • Operate the Outage Management System, CIS system, and Mapping and Staking system, as required.
  • Switch substations and circuits and be familiar with the electrical system’s switching points and protective devices.

Education, Knowledge, and Experience:

  • Progressively responsible related work experience in the utilities industry provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the position's duties. HS diploma/equivalent and a Journeyman Lineman Certificate or Bachelor of Engineering degree.
  • Knowledge of the construction, operation, and maintenance of distribution and transmission lines and substations.  Must possess knowledge of the National Electrical Safety Code, RUS Materials Specifications Construction, OSHA regulations, line construction vehicles, tools, and equipment.  Must have the ability to understand the Cooperative’s system maps, staking sheets, and other work order procedures required of the job. Must have the ability to supervise, coach, and mentor employees. 
  • Must have a valid driver’s license, preferably Class A CDL.

BEC offers excellent pay and the NRECA benefits package, including 401k, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Pre-employment drug and physical test is required, and must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Montana driver’s license. 

Applicants must submit a completed BEC application, cover letter, and resume to Pat Petterson, General Manager, at pat.patterson@beartoothelectric.com.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Please see the BEC website for details www.beartoothelectric.com, click the My BEC tab, Careers.

About Beartooth Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Beartooth Electric Cooperative, Inc. (BEC) is a small, non-profit, member-owned rural electric cooperative nestled against the Beartooth Mountains in Red Lodge, Montana. Located 60 miles south of Billings, MT, this quaint town has a rich history and culture dating back to the 1800s. From its early days as a Native American trading post to its recent reputation as an outdoor recreation mecca. It's known for its amazing skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and rafting opportunities (just to name a few) and its friendly locals. The drive from Red Lodge to Cooke City via the Beartooth Highway is well known as one of the most beautiful drives in the US. No matter the season, Red Lodge is the Base Camp to the Beartooths.

BEC serves Carbon County, portions of Stillwater and Sweetgrass Counties in Montana, and portions of Park County in Wyoming. We currently service over 5,000 members, 1,600 miles of line, and 7,000 meters. BEC is committed to our service area communities involved in energy efficiency, local renewable projects, and beneficial electrification. Our mission is to provide our members with reliable, reasonable priced electricity and related services delivered in a safe and efficient manner.

Mechanic

Wage or Salary: $41.95 per hour, per Union Contract.

Fergus Electric Cooperative, Inc., located in Lewistown Montana, has an immediate opening for a qualified mechanic.

Fergus Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric cooperative serving 6,873 meters in central Montana. Lewistown is surrounded by five mountain ranges with abundant wildlife. The area offers a variety of recreational opportunities.

The successful candidate must possess a great attitude, good work ethic, and be committed to safety and service to co-op members. Fergus Electric is committed to having a strong safety program.

The co-op offers an excellent benefit package.

Job requirements include a high school diploma and a valid Montana Class A Commercial Driver License with an excellent driving record.  Diesel Technology or similar postsecondary education preferred. An employment physical and a drug screen are required.

Additional Information:

Duties, skills, and abilities include:

  • The ability to work alone and maintain a clean and orderly shop.
  • Diagnosing and repairing gas and diesel engines. 
  • Performing preventative maintenance inspections and services.
  • Repairing hydraulic systems, welding, and fabricating parts
  • The ability to operate digger derricks, bucket trucks, backhoes, skid steers and snow cats.
  • Must comply with OSHA safety and health rules.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Must be available to work scheduled and unscheduled overtime during power outages and/or emergencies.
  • This position is active and requires daily lifting, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, and climbing.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Employment applications are available online at www.ferguselectric.coop

Call (406) 538-3465 to request an application. 

Please send resume and application to:  Dale Rikala, Fergus Electric Co-op, Inc., 84423 U.S. Highway 87, Lewistown, MT 59457-2058; email ferguslinesup@ferguselectric.coop; or call 406-538-3465. 

Applications will be accepted through October 5th, 2023.

SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for providing financial expertise and advice to the leadership team and the Board of Directors.

Objectives:

Must possess excellent organizational, communication, leadership and negotiation skills. Must possess advanced proficiency in computer knowledge. Established proficiency in financial analysis and accounting is required. The ability to interact effectively with employees, members and the public as well as the ability to supervise and lead effectively in a team environment required. Must continually keep informed of changing technology to properly perform the objectives of this position. Must meet to the satisfaction of the Cooperative any job related written, verbal or physical tests as may be required by the Cooperative.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Comply with established safety and/or operating rules, procedures, and guidelines; and be responsible for co-workers under his/her guidance.
  • Work with auditors to schedule the annual audit.  Provide necessary information so they can successfully perform an annual audit.  Also provide information needed for auditing firm to complete Form 990 plus other tax forms if such forms are not completed by cooperative personnel.
    • Maintain an appropriate system of accounting controls as they apply to accounting software applications, internal audit, payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable and other functions that interrelate with the finance function.
    • Ensure that adequate financial and accounting systems are maintained for the production of internal management reports necessary to support appropriate business decisions.  Also, maintain systems to provide external reporting as needed including all regulatory financial filings.
    • Prepare the office department budget and coordinate/prepare the cooperative budget.  Supervise the preparation of a detailed purchased power analyses by source utilizing future budgeted rates as provided by power suppliers.
    • Acquire and maintain an excellent knowledge of electric utility industry, U.S. economy, and other trends that can be used when preparing financial forecasts and making financial recommendations.
    • Develop long range cash requirements and a debt portfolio strategy consistent with the risk tolerance approved by the Board of Directors.  Ensure adequate short-term cash and maximize investment income. 
    • Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with RUS, CFC, CoBank, local banks, and other financial service providers.
    • Develop and recommend the appropriate balance sheet position to satisfy financial, member service, and construction goals.  Ensure that financial goals regarding financial position are attained through proper working capital, equity policy, capital credit policy, and capital expenditure plans.
    • Monitor cash flow including construction loan funds and determine when a construction loan application should be completed.  Coordinate the loan application process by gathering or completing documents as required by the RUS GFR (General Field Representative) or other entity.
    • Assist consultants in preparation of rates studies and recommend changes in rates when needed.  This includes maintaining an analysis of power purchased by source on a monthly basis.
    • Oversee payroll and human resource functions of the office.
    • Prepare monthly financial statements for MRE and SGA board meeting.
    • Prepare the financial section of the annual report for MREC and SGA.
    • Perform all necessary staffing, wage administration, benefit administration, and other supervisory functions of the office.
    • Work with software provider (currently NISC) and other consultants and vendors that provide necessary products and services to the cooperative ensuring that computer software/hardware is efficiently used. 
    • Encourage department employees to seek and utilize educational opportunities that will help them become more efficient in their job performance.
    • Approve department purchases and submit invoices for payment.
    • Prepare weekly updates relating to the accounting of the cooperative.
    • Work with insurance company on renewals, claims, and all other correspondence requested.
    • Annually complete forms by March 31st listing current property valuations to the Montana Department of Revenue to be used in computing annual centrally assessed property taxes.  Verify the valuations of any cooperative utility property that has been added/retired from the previous year.
    • Complete the annual CFC compliance survey on-line. 
    • Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the General Manager.

Key competencies:

  • Member Focused: Enjoys helping others, is friendly, listens and responds promptly to member concerns and complaints, and follows through to ensure commitments are met.  Manages difficult or emotional member situations.  Solicits feedback to improve service.
  • Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner.  Gathers and analyzes information skillfully.  Generates creative solutions, develops innovative approaches and ideas, and demonstrates attention to detail.
  • Project Management: Develops project plans, coordinates with others, communicates changes and progress, and completes projects on time and on budget.
  • Technical Skills: Pursues training and development opportunities to continuously build knowledge and skills and shares expertise with others.  Proficient with personal computer, software, and audio visual equipment.
  • Communication Skills: Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations, listens and gets clarification, responds well to questions, and participates in meetings.
  • Written Communication: Writes clearly and informatively, edits work for grammar, and spelling, and varies writing style to meet needs.
  • Teamwork: Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views, gives and welcomes feedback, contributes to building a positive team, and supports everyone’s efforts to succeed.
  • Leadership: Inspires and motivates others to perform well, includes appropriate employees in planning and decision-making, takes responsibility for employee activities, makes self-available to employees, develops employee skills and encourages growth, gives appropriate recognition to others, and continually works to improve work environment and leadership skills.
  • Ethics: Treats people with respect, keeps commitments, and accepts responsibility for own actions, inspires the trust of others, works with integrity, and upholds organizational values.
  • Confidentiality: Uses discretion and maintains confidentiality in sensitive and personal matters related to the function.
  • Organizational Support: Follows policies and procedures, supports company goals and values, promotes a harassment-free environment, supports affirmative action, and respects diversity.

Relationships:

               Internal

  • General Manager:   To request and provide advice and assistance as required.  To seek necessary approvals and keep informed of policies and procedures.
  • Staff:   To provide advice and assistance on budgeting, wage and salary plan, federal and state compliance, performance appraisals, position descriptions and specifications, counseling and other staff management areas.
  • All Marias River Electric and Shelby Gas Association Employees:  Provide advice, assistance and motivate employees in the delivery of exceptional service (product service and member service).  To encourage the exchange of ideas for improving service; to listen to and learn from.

EDUCATION:

A bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting or finance is desirable. 

EXPERIENCE:

            Five (5) years of progressive accounting/financial/supervisory experience or a combination of experience and education.

JOB KNOWLEDGE: 

Primarily responsible for the planning, direction, coordination, review and monitoring of all financially related policies and procedures.   This position directs short and long range financial plans and recommends changes based on the analysis and projection of financial position.  In addition, ensures the proper utilization and internal control of cooperative assets.  Staffs and leads the office, including the treasury, long range financial planning, cooperative capital credit, internal and external financial reporting for the financial analysis, accounting, accounts payable, fixed asset, payroll, corporate insurance, purchasing and tax functions.  This position contributes to managing the rates and schedule of charges for the cooperative.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Position requires occasional lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling of weights up to 20 pounds.

  • Must have the ability to operate or have the ability to learn how to operate various types of general office equipment including a computer, printer, telephone, facsimile machine, copier machine, and shredder.

  • Position requires sitting for long periods of time, the use of one or both hands, the use of fingers, and arm-hand steadiness.

  • Work is primarily inside with temperatures moderated by a heating and/or cooling system and some exposure to noise normally not exceeding that of standard office equipment.

  • Position involves occasional exposure to mechanical hazards and work at heights of no more than 10 feet.

  • Position may require travel, overtime, weekend and night work.

Certificates and Requirements:

         Valid Montana Driver’s License

 

To apply, please send a cover letter and a resume to Shane Clark, General Manager, at sclark@mariasriverec.com.