September 13, 2024

State of Iowa

Des Moines

FULL TIME

Utilities Regulation Inspector

Job Description

The Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) is seeking an Investigator/Pipeline Inspector to conduct investigations of potential One Call violations regarding damage to underground utilities.

Investigations will follow all applicable federal and state standards. The successful candidate will receive training through the federal Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to become a certified pipeline inspector to perform construction inspections, along with regular pipeline inspections as time permits. This is a permanent, full-time, and contract-covered position that reports to the Bureau Chief of the Safety and Engineering section.

The IUC assists with investigations of complaints/violations received by the Attorney General’s office concerning non-compliance with Iowa’s One Call law. This includes complaints against operators, locators, and excavators for failing to provide timely notice of a planned excavation and underground facility owners/operators for improper locating or marking of underground facilities.

The successful candidate will investigate customer complaints/violations submitted to the IUC by customers, contractors, locators, utilities or the Attorney General's office. This will include reviewing and analyzing data regarding underground utility damages and maintaining records of collected data and trends; corresponding with the customer, locator, contractors, and utility companies to gather facts and information on One Call complaints/violations; preparing letters, reports, and proposed resolutions; and referring appropriate complaints to the Attorney General's office for enforcement. The Investigator’s role involves understanding the issues and violations, as well as being prepared to testify at hearing if the matter becomes a contested case. The Investigator also will be responsible for the IUC’s Damage Prevention educational program and will assist in preparing and reviewing of applications and progress reports for One Call and Damage Prevention grants.

This is a unique opportunity to grow with a vital state agency that makes a difference in the everyday lives of Iowans. The successful candidate will work in the IUC-OCA LEED Platinum building on the Capitol Complex. A professional and courteous level of conduct is expected when dealing with employees of the regulated industries, stakeholders, the general public, inter-agency colleagues, and IUC staff to maintain a positive image of the agency.

Frequent travel at times, often including overnight stays, may be required, and a valid driver license is required. Additionally, this position involves participation in the investigation or field inspection of natural gas distribution utilities, transmission pipelines, and pipeline construction, and it will require the employee to work outdoors, including in inclement weather and walking on uneven terrain.

Interested applicants are highly encouraged to upload a cover letter and resume to the attachments section on their application for this position.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Two years of experience in the inspection, supervision, construction and/or operation and maintenance of private or public utility installations and facilities, including natural gas pipeline and/or electric transmission and distribution facilities;

an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting one year (thirty semester hours or its equivalent) of post high school education in engineering technology for one year of the required work experience to a maximum of two years.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description (Download PDF reader).

Why Choose the State of Iowa?
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Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.
Paid Time Off:
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Professional Development:
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