Lake Region Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric utility serving more than 30,000 member-consumers in the counties of Otter Tail, Wilkin, Grant, Douglas, Clay and Becker (service territory). We have an amazing opportunity for an IT Generalist to join our organization as a member of our Business Solutions Department.

Our full-time IT Generalist, individual contributor position, based out of the LREC Pelican Rapids office, applies their ‘jack of all trades’ broad IT knowledgebase, ensuring the smooth operation, technical support and assistance for a variety of information technology assets & systems. Implement and manage complex systems and solutions via integration of a broad spectrum of hardware and software technologies. Employ scripting and automation tools for efficient system management. Provide support to end users by identifying problems, researching answers, and guiding through corrective steps. Administer and engage in cybersecurity policies, procedures, end user training and best practices. Ongoing knowledge and competency development by writing and maintaining internal end user documentation.

• Ensure effective and efficient problem solving or escalation of IT support issues, engaging with external IT contractors as appropriate.
  • Manage a wide range of administrative and support tasks, ensuring the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the department.
  • Participate in the analysis, planning and coordinating of technology related projects.
  • Coordinate and moderate support calls between end-users and vendors.
  • Maintain adequate licensing for all IT systems including, but not limited to network & server infrastructure, workstations, software applications, and phone systems.
  • Perform compliance testing, hardware & software lifecycle management, and cyber security processes and procedures.
• Maintain secure and efficient network and server infrastructure operations.
  • Evaluate and provide recommendations for wired and wireless networks, working with the department manager and IT contractor to perform upgrades as needed.
  • Ensure backups are functioning to eliminate downtime in the event of hardware failures and internet outages.
  • Monitor network stability, available bandwidth, and server performance. Perform troubleshooting to isolate and diagnose issues.
  • Evaluate and provide recommendations for the cooperative’s servers, working with the department manager and the IT contractor to perform upgrades, as needed.
  • Ensure timely backups are available, based on the criticality of each server.
• Implement and maintain innovative technology solutions to increase efficiency.
  • Ensure efficient operation, integrations, and support of software applications including but not limited to NISC (National Information Solutions Cooperative) and Aclara (Advanced Metering Infrastructure).
  • Develop and maintain relationships with software vendors to ensure LREC is utilizing the most effective technologies.
  • Design and customize technological systems and platforms to improve the end-user experience.

Qualifications for the position include:

• Requires a combination of education and experience equivalent to 6 years in the Information Technology (IT) field.
• Experience with Windows server and network infrastructure operations.
• Highly proficient in workstation operating systems, Office 365, Exchange Online, and Active Directory.
• Experience in security incident detection and response, vulnerability, and prevention control procedures.
• Understanding of scripting and query languages and the ability to write in Python, JavaScript and SQL.
• Analytical and complex problem-solving skills, with the desire for continuous learning and development.
• Ability to communicate technical information to a non-technical audience
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive working relationships.
• Strong communication and organizational skills that reflect the ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with attention to detail.
• Capacity to work standard work hours, Monday – Friday 7:30AM – 4:00PM, and overtime as needed. Assistance may be expected during major outages.
• Must be able to successfully complete a pre-employment screening which may include a physical examination, drug screening, background check, reference check, and motor vehicle record check as applicable to the position.

LREC offers a competitive wage, benefits package, and paid time off. Questions regarding the position can be directed to HR@lrec.coop. This position will remain open for 30 days or until filled; however, applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible as the review process will begin right away. Apply and view a full position description by visiting our website at www.lrec.coop.

LREC is an equal opportunity employer (EOE).

About Lake Region Electric Cooperative

Lake Region Electric Cooperative’s membership is a mix of residential, commercial and industrial, and seasonal homes. The cooperative averages 4.6 members per mile in our 3,200 square mile service territory. We own and maintain 5,600 miles of line. Because we are a cooperative, margins (or profits) are allocated to members’ capital credits accounts. Periodically, capital credits are returned to members based on the amount of electricity they purchased.

Connections working at Lake Region Electric Cooperative