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Job Summary – Telecommunication & Control Field Engineer

This position is responsible for the implementation, analysis, testing, operation and maintenance of advanced communication and control systems that support the reliable operation of electric utility infrastructure.

Telecomm Field Engineers work hands‑on in the field with technologies such as fiber optics, microwave radio systems, RF systems, RF (900Mhz) and fiber optic Field Area Networks (FANs), MPLS-TP nodes, SCADA systems, and carrier‑grade protection systems.

While not design engineers, Telecomm Field Engineers collaborate closely with design teams to ensure systems meet operational needs and performance standards.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities – Telecommunication & Control Field Engineer 1 / Specialist 1

• Assists in the installation, testing, and troubleshooting of communication systems including fiber optics, microwave radios, RF networks, and SCADA components.
• Supports configuration and validation of MPLS-TP nodes and network devices operating at speeds up to 100 Gbps.
• Participates in field verification of carrier protection systems and remote terminal units (RTUs).
• Aids in the analysis of system faults and communication failures to identify root causes and recommend corrective actions.
• Works with design engineers to ensure field implementations align with system requirements and standards.
• Maintains documentation and records for system configurations, test results, and maintenance activities.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities – Telecommunication & Control Field Engineer 2 / Specialist 2

• Independently performs testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of complex communication and SCADA systems.
• Develops and maintains RTU configurations, network configurations and routing schemes for SCADA, MPLS-TP, and FAN systems.
• Analyses system performance metrics and recommends improvements to enhance reliability and throughput.
• Provides technical support for field personnel and assists in training on new systems and technologies.
• Conducts peer reviews of junior engineers’ work and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities – Telecommunication & Control Field Engineer 3 / Specialist 3

• Leads field implementation of new communication technologies and SCADA system upgrades.
• Develops and tests advanced RF, fiber optic, and SCADA communication schemes for utility applications.
• Serves as a subject matter expert on microwave radio systems, MPLS-TP architecture, SCADA protocols, and carrier protection systems.
• Participates in the development of standards and best practices for communication system deployment and maintenance.
• Supports compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., NERC, CIP, IEEE).
• Engages in industry forums and technical groups to stay current with emerging technologies and practices.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities – Senior Engineer / Senior Specialist

• Provides technical leadership and mentorship to engineering staff.
• Oversees complex projects involving multi-technology communication and SCADA systems and ensures high-quality execution by the rest of the team.
• Represents the group in cross-functional meetings and external engagements.
• Helps develop and approve future projects, design templates, and hardware used in current and future designs.
• Identifies and implements process improvements to enhance system reliability, efficiency, and maintainability.
• Leads strategic initiatives to modernize communication infrastructure and integrate new technologies.

Required Qualifications – Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of fiber optic systems, RF technologies, microwave radio equipment, and SCADA systems.
• Familiarity with MPLS-TP, Ethernet networking, IP routing protocols, and SCADA communication standards (e.g., DNP3, Modbus).
• Ability to use engineering software and tools for testing and diagnostics.
• Strong understanding of utility communication systems and their role in grid reliability.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Prior military experience involving radar, radio, or electronic communication systems.
• Familiarity with cellular technologies and infrastructure.
• Active or former ham radio operator (amateur radio license).
• Knowledge of NERC/CIP standards and utility communication compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with tools such as Wireshark, SEL AcSELerator, SCADA system interfaces, and Python scripting PLC’s, Industrial Automation, Telecomm Systems.
• Understanding of carrier protection systems, tuners, wave-traps, utility line protection systems.
• Familiarity with utility-specific technologies such as Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and Power Line Carrier.

Preferred

• Prior military experience involving radar, radio, or electronic communication systems.
• Familiarity with cellular technologies and infrastructure.
• Active or former ham radio operator (amateur radio license).
• Knowledge of NERC/CIP standards and utility communication compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with tools such as Wireshark, SEL AcSELerator, SCADA system interfaces, and Python scripting PLC’s, Industrial Automation, Telecomm Systems.

Education & Experience

• Engineer 1 / Specialist 1: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Engineering Technology, Telecommunications, or related field.
• Engineer 2 / Specialist 2: Bachelor’s + 3 years of relevant experience or Master’s + 2 years.
• Engineer 3 / Specialist 3: Bachelor’s + 7 years or Master’s + 5 years.
• Senior Engineer / Sr. Specialist: Bachelor’s + 10 years or Master’s + 8 years.

Additional Information

• Relocation assistance available. Physical demands and responsibilities may vary based on field conditions and project scope.
• Telecomm Field Engineers are on‑call and can work some days after hours.
• Successful candidates will be considered for the 4 Engineering Levels within this job family based on experience and education.

Salary

• Engineer 1 $69,900-$105,000
• Engineer 2/ Specialist 2 $82,200-$123,200
• Engineer 3 / Specialist 3 $96,600-$144,900
• Senior Engineer / Senior Specialist $113,500-$170,300

Salary Range

Salary Range*: $69,900.00 - $170,300.00 *The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate’s skills, job‑related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.

Work Authorization

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Workplace Connection

We value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners. We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.

Veteran Hiring & Inclusion

NiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

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, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at OneHR@nisource.com or 1-888-640-3320.

Safety Statement

Safety is a core value at NiSource. Employees are expected to follow safety requirements, report hazards, and help maintain a safe environment for themselves and their coworkers.

E-Verify

NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. Please review the following notices regarding your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish)

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.