Project Specialist 1

*This is a hybrid role (work from home Mondays and Fridays)

Job Summary
Maintains and monitors project files for accuracy and completeness with a focus on federal TVC requirements. Assists in the application of permits, preparation and execution of job orders, procurement of materials, processing of material invoices, tracking of materials, and preparation and submittal of close-out packets. Supports the planning, estimating, scheduling, risk analysis, agreements for land, engineering services, pipeline interconnects and reimbursements, assist with the preparation of bid packets and contractor selection. Collaborates and strategizes with peers within NiSource companies and in industry to ensure cost effective project management. Supports Engineering, New Business, and Sales and Services in cost estimating potential projects. Supports Local Operations through communications and commitment by applying input into projects.

Essential Functions

• Supports the management of capital construction, improves capital spending efficiency and return on invested capital
• Implements best practices while driving functional consistency, process standardization and operational excellence
• Supports a project management and planning culture
• Promotes the necessary environment for effective internal customer satisfaction and collaboration
• Partners with Field Operations, Sales, and other Technical Operations functions to meet strategic goals and objectives
• Assures activities and processes are implemented to ensure the safe, reliable and cost effective delivery of services
• Effective use of technology, tools and planning techniques to improve process results
• Fosters and promotes valued relationships with government entities, industry associates, company affiliates, and contractors
• Promotes and assures safe working environment and public safety
• Executes engineering and construction services strategies
• Supports the implementation and management of pipeline construction contracts
• Ensures timely and accurate invoice payments
• Assists in establishing and monitoring contractor performance metrics
• Collaborates with peers to ensure operating standards and construction practices comply with policies and procedures
• Maintains relationships with fabricators, equipment vendors and manufactures, evaluate equipment and material costs to insure value
• Interacts with other business units including sales, economic development, finance, M&R design, engineering, survey & land, SCADA, and M&R
• Must have the ability to work on projects within all NiSource Distribution Operations territories
• Executes on objectives to achieve desired results
• Participates in occupational and personal development as made available
• Creates, monitors and executes capital job orders related to large capital projects
• Assembles and processes all project close-out materials with a focus on federal TVC requirements
• Maintains and monitors project files for accuracy and completeness
• Develops and maintains strong working relationships built on transparency and trust
• Performs safe/efficient high-quality construction work that complies with policies, practices, and standards
• Collaborates between project specialists, project managers and contract construction inspectors
• Develops internal/external customer responsive construction support
• Completes construction projects which meet customer expectations and budget requirements
• Cultivates relationships with external municipalities and local authorities
• Responsible for timely and accurate invoice payments
• Builds effective team relationships throughout field and State staff functions
• Monitors and communicates progress of projects

Required Qualifications For Position

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 4-6 years Minimum of experience working with pipeline contractors or related heavy construction industries
• Demonstrated knowledge of construction practices
• Demonstrated skill in utilizing cost/benefit analysis with quantitative and/or qualitative data to recommend best option/choice/alternative
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with various individuals and functions across the organization
• Demonstrated negotiating and influencing skills
• Demonstrated knowledge of gas system design and operations including gas flow, construction, contracts and emergency response
• Working knowledge of local, state, and federal operating codes
• Working knowledge of policies, procedures, and standards pertaining to the design, construction, maintenance, and repair of gas facilities, inclusive of environmental and safety policies an