Power Distribution Specialist

About the job

The Power Distribution Specialist is part of Vanderbilt University Maintenance and Operations (VUMO) and is a key individual contributor responsible for the operation and maintenance of the electrical distribution system providing power to the University as well as the Medical Center. This position requires strong attention to detail, analytic thinking and a commitment to maintain a high level of reliability of the electrical distribution system. This position does not have supervisory responsibility: his position reports administratively and functionally to the CoGen Assistant Manager.

About the Work Unit”

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Real Estate, Facilities, and Development at Vanderbilt University is committed to upholding the University's vision by excelling in management, strategic initiatives, and operational success. The unit embodies the core values and mission of the university, working closely with key stakeholders to address complex issues that span across the University and its affiliates as well as coordinating with the Board of Trustees on complex and cross-institutional issues. Each member of the team is crucial in executing the strategic initiatives and advancing the university through strategic partnerships to strategically managing growth, optimizing campus resources and ensuring that infrastructure supports Vanderbilt’s evolving academic and research needs and its vision to become the world’s best-run university.

VUMO is part of the Facilities Department which reports to the Associate Vice Chancellor & Chief Facilities Officer. VUMO provides maintenance, cleaning, and other ancillary services for six million square feet of academic, laboratory, administrative, residential, and recreational space, as well as power generation and thermal utilities for both Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The Grounds team cares for 330 acres including a registered arboretum and SEC athletic fields. VUMO’s annual budget exceeds $100 million and includes over 500 employees.

Facilities is part of the Vanderbilt University Real Estate, Facilities, and Development organization which works collaboratively to build, maintain, manage and operate campus infrastructure in a sustainable and cost-efficient manner to support the overarching academic mission and goals of the university.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Test 13,800 volt and 4,160 volt transformers, breakers and switches

• Calibration of 13,800 volt relays and 4,160 volt relays

• Change out 13,800 volt relays and 4,160 volt relays

• Operate 69,000 volt and lower air break disconnects, circuit breakers and associated equipment during standard and emergency switching procedures

• Inspection of newly installed switch gear as well as existing switch gear preventative maintenance

• Inspection of cables and equipment in underground vaults and tunnels

• Test 13,800 volt and 4,160 volt  and 480 volt cables

• Pull samples of transformers oil for testing

• Test motor starters on equipment

• Test ground loops in substation and buildings

• Test gas turbines driven generators 1 & 2

• Clean switch gear in substation and buildings

• Install and test electric meters on 13,800 volt and lower circuits

• Test electric motors and inspect installations

• Replace bearings in electric motors

• Use all testing equipment

• Use all programs for setting up equipment from computer

• Read electrical drawings, make revisions and create new drawings as necessary

• Install electrical cables

• Install electrical conduit

• Pull medium and high voltage cabling

• Work with Electrical Engineers and contractors

• Work with vendors

• Work with OEM personnel

• Clean electrical equipment

• Work on Work Orders from other PO areas

• Operate fork truck

• Operate a bucket truck

• Operate department vehicles

• Other duties related to classification

Install and test electric motors and variable speed drives

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the CoGen Assistant Manager.

Education and Certifications:

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Valid Driver License is required; must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records

Experience and Skills:

• 5 years of previous experience is necessary.
• 3 years of experience in high voltage electrical operations is required
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds

About Us

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Additional Information

• Job Identification: 10009039
• Job Category: Facilities
• Posting Date: 2026-10-19
• Job Schedule: Full time