Assistant Vanguard Utilities Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description:

The High Voltage Breaker Testing Specialist is responsible for performing advanced diagnostic testing, maintenance, repair, and installation of high-voltage, EHV, and UHV circuit breakers used in utility, industrial, and transmission systems. This role requires expert knowledge of breaker mechanisms, control circuits, timing standards, insulating mediums (SF6, vacuum, oil), and all related IEEE and NETA testing procedures. The specialist ensures breaker reliability, safe operation, and compliance with industry standards by conducting thorough testing, interpreting analytical data, and leading field service activities.

Requirements:

Breaker Testing & Diagnostics

• Perform acceptance, maintenance, and diagnostic testing on high-voltage, EHV, and UHV circuit breakers, including:
• Timing tests (Open, Close, OC/CO, C/OC, Trip-free, Reclose)
• Contact resistance (DLRO/micro-ohm)
• Motion/velocity analysis (travel, stroke, damping)
• Coil and motor current signatures
• Insulation resistance and power factor testing
• High-potential testing (as applicable)
• SF6 gas quality, moisture, and purity testing
• Operate state-of-the-art breaker testing equipment (Doble, Omicron, Megger, Vanguard, etc.).
• Validate control wiring, trip circuits, auxiliary contacts, and reclosing logic.
• Perform mechanical inspections and service:
  • Lubrication of linkages, bearings, and operating mechanisms
  • Adjustment of latches, springs, dashpots, and operating rods
  • Inspection and replacement of worn components
• Diagnose and repair control cabinets, trip coils, close coils, heaters, pressure switches, and motor actuators.
• Perform SF6 gas Handlin evacuation, filling, leak detection, reclaiming, and environmental reporting.
• Document breaker condition and identify corrective actions.

New Installation & Commissioning

• Lead installation and commissioning of new high-voltage circuit breakers (dead tank, live tank, GIS, and hybrid).
• Verify correct assembly, torquing, clearances, and alignment.
• Perform final acceptance testing and functional checks:
  • SCADA / relay trip testing
  • Interlocking verification
  • Control and protection wiring validation
• Support energization and live-system cutovers.

Data Interpretation & Reporting

• Analyze test results to determine breaker health, end-of-life indicators, and remaining service life.
• Prepare clear, accurate, and timely technical reports detailing:
  • Test data
  • Findings
  • Root causes (when applicable)
  • Recommended maintenance or replacement actions
• Review OEM manuals, engineering drawings, and maintenance history to support conclusions.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all OSHA, NFPA 70E, NETA, IEEE, and company safety procedures.
• Apply proper LOTO, grounding, and switching practices around HV equipment.
• Maintain calibration of all test instruments and track equipment care.
• Ensure environmental compliance for SF6 handling and reporting.

Technical Leadership

• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for high-voltage breaker testing and maintenance.
• Mentor junior technicians and guide them through advanced testing practices.
• Assist in the development and refinement of testing procedures, documentation, and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Power Engineering, or related field equivalent (or industry experience).
• 5+ years of experience with high-voltage circuit breaker testing, maintenance, or commissioning.
• Strong knowledge of IEEE breaker testing standards and NETA MTS/ATS practices.
• Hands-on experience with SF6, vacuum, oil, and hybrid breaker technologies.
• In-depth understanding of breaker operating mechanisms (spring-charged, hydraulic, pneumatic, magnetic-actuator).
• Proficiency with testing devices: timing sets, DLRO, travel analyzers, motion sensors, and insulation testers.
• Strong ability to read wiring diagrams, control schematics, and interlocking logic.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and reporting skills.
• Ability to travel to job sites, often on short notice.

Preferred Qualifications

• NETA Level III or IV certification.
• Experience with EHV/UHV breakers (230kV–765kV+).
• OEM training from ABB/Hitachi, GE, Siemens, Mitsubishi, or similar.
• Experience commissioning GIS equipment.
• Familiarity with relay trip testing and protection systems.