Systems Administrator I - Operational Technology - Allete

ALLETE is a publicly traded energy company focused on building a sustainable energy future that is headquartered on beautiful Lake Superior in Duluth, Minnesota - with operations throughout the United States. ALLETE's largest business is Minnesota Power, an electric energy provider that serves about 145,000 customers, more than a dozen municipalities, and some of the nation's largest industrial customers. Other ALLETE businesses include Wisconsin-based Superior Water, Light & Power; ALLETE Clean Energy based in Duluth, Minnesota; BNI Energy in Bismarck, North Dakota; New Energy Equity headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland; and ALLETE Renewable Resources.

ALLETE is seeking a talented Systems Administrator I with a strong technical foundation to join its Operational Technology team. This position will support technology systems integral to ALLETE Clean Energy's operations. This includes managing control systems, data acquisition systems, servers, and networking equipment. The primary responsibility of this role will be to administer and provide technical support for operational technology (OT) systems to include maintaining and upgrading existing systems, as well as recommending, designing, and implementing new solutions based on industry best practices and specific business needs. ALLETE Clean Energy specializes in developing, acquiring, and managing clean and renewable energy projects. ALLETE Clean Energy seeks opportunities to develop or acquire mid-size capital projects for electric utilities, cooperatives, municipalities, independent power marketers, and large end-users across North America.

ALLETE offers a flexible, friendly work environment, expansive opportunities to grow and develop in your career, and a culture that drives excellence through our shared values of integrity, safety, people, and the planet. We offer choice in the things that matter to you: your money, your health, your time, and your career. The compensation package includes a competitive, market-based salary, a robust retirement plan, medical and dental benefits, generous time off, professional development opportunities, and other perks such as an on-site wellness facility.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Administer and maintain control systems, ensuring reliable data acquisition and system functionality.
• Implement system upgrades and retrofits while ensuring minimal operational disruption.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to deliver solutions that enhance system performance and security.
• Analyze system requirements, recommend improvements, and develop plans for implementation.
• Ensure systems comply with relevant regulatory standards, including NERC compliance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues in a timely manner, minimizing downtime and ensuring business continuity.

REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Information Systems, or a related field of study, no experience required*.

OR

• Bachelor's degree PLUS three years or more of related experience is required*.

*Candidates completing their degree by December 31, 2024 will be considered.

PREFERRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Experience in any of the following areas is preferred:
  • Devices: Data Concentrators, Media Converters, PLCs, RTUs.
  • Vendors: ABB, GE, Kepware, Matrikon, MHI, Schneider Electric, SEL, Zond.
  • Protocols: Modbus, OPC, Serial Communication.
  • Applications: Fenway WCS, GE WindSCADA, or other digital control systems.
  • Databases: MS SQL, other proprietary data structures.
  • Security & Compliance: Experience with NERC, access management, patching.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position may be considered for a hybrid work arrangement based on ALLETE's needs. A Hybrid work arrangement means the employee's position will be a blend of work performed both in-person and at an offsite location such as an employee's home office. This position will report to Duluth, MN.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license as travel to other company locations may be required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate technical issues for non-technical stakeholders.
• Flexibility and adaptability in managing changing priorities.
• Ability to provide off-hour emergency support when required.
• This position may be subject to assessment of skills, job match and/or aptitude.

Employer will not sponsor Visas for position.

External applicants must apply online via www.allete.com/careers.

This job posting will be available for application until the position has been filled OR the posting close date noted herein, whichever date is earlier.

ALLETE is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.

If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for employment, please contact our Human Resources department at 218-723-7553.

EEO/AA/F/M/Vet/Disabled

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