The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Industrial Electrician is responsible for developing, designing, and managing all electrical aspects of surface and underground radio communication, motor controls, programmable logic controllers, fiber optic and copper cabling, and high voltage systems. 

Line of Authority

The Industrial Electrician reports directly to the Electrical / Dewatering / Cyber Foreman.  

Functional Responsibilities (include but are not limited to)

Motor Controls

• Installs and maintains large AC/DC motors and control systems.
• Troubleshoots wiring and motor controls.

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

• Installs all PLCs for multiple inputs and output arrangements.
• Researches and recommends or approves all PLCs in building plans.
• Maintains and troubleshoots PLCs including resistance to extended temperature ranges, electrical noise, vibration, and impact.

Medium Voltage Electrical System

• Installs and maintains medium voltage distribution systems.
• Monitors the electrical usage and system capacity.
• Troubleshoots medium voltage system including circuits, load balance, and insulation testing.

Surface and Underground Electrical Systems

• Designs electrical systems and approves all electrical designs of surface and underground structures.
• Installs (or oversees installation) of wiring, conduit, and electrical panels.
• Repairs or replaces outlets, switches, and ballasts. 
• Reviews and upgrades maintenance schedules for all electrical aspects of the laboratory.

Accountabilities

The Industrial Electrician has the following accountabilities: 

• To the Electrical Foreman for completing assigned work in a safe manner. 
• To the Surface Operations and Utilities department for effective time management. 
• To the SDSTA for making sure electrical equipment and installations on site meet or exceed the standards set forth by the Authority. 

Authorities

The Industrial Electrician has the following authorities: 

• To themselves and their colleagues for the electrical department’s directive to safely complete work in accordance with electrical standards/codes. 
• To speak up about any unsafe working conditions or practices on SDSTA property. 

Education

• Formal training in industrial electronics or related field preferred.

Experience

• Experience developing and maintaining electrical systems in an underground environment including motor controls, PLCs, and medium voltage systems is preferred. 

Certifications 

• Willing to obtain SD Electrical Journeyman License (unless already licensed)

Competencies

• Customer Service – Ability to interact courteously with customers and discover and address their needs.
• Attention to Detail—ability to maintain constant awareness of surroundings and ensure tasks are completed carefully and accurately.
• Organization—ability to prioritize tasks, manage time, and keep order and coordinate numerous activities.
• Problem-Solving—ability to identify problems and quickly generate viable solutions.
• Initiative—ability to persist despite difficult conditions and to make suggestions for improvements.
• Adaptability—ability to effectively adjust to changing priorities and demands.
• Creativity—ability to generate innovative ideas and solutions when troubleshooting and solving problems.

Working Requirements

• Comply with SDSTA’s safety program.
• Act in accordance with SDSTA’s core values: Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professionalism and Being a Team Player.
• Perform strenuous physical labor and lift heavy items.
• Work in all types of conditions (heat, humidity, wet, cold). 
• Perform work in the SURF underground environment at depths up to 5000 feet. 
• Operate heavy equipment and hand and power tools. 
• Work from ladders, scaffolding, and in confined places.
• Work shifts, weekends, holidays, and callouts as scheduled.
• Provide proof of a valid driver’s license.

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) is an equal opportunity employer committed to the development of a diverse workforce. We foster a work community where every individual feels welcomed, valued, respected and heard and discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or political affiliation is prohibited.