Critical Facilities Technician 1
About the job
- A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) and a two-year maintenance certificate from a college or technical school, or five years of related maintenance lead experience.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Access.
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business documents.
- Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
- Customer service skills.
- Oral and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from internal and external customers.
- A good work record, including attendance.
- Perform critical facility maintenance, repairs, installations, training, and oversight when bargaining unit employees are unqualified or unavailable.
- Coordinate activities of workers and contractors engaged in machine and facility repairs.
- Train, lead, and mentor maintenance staff at all levels.
- Represent the Maintenance Facility Manager when the manager is off-duty or occupied.
- Set up and operate machine tools, and fit and assemble parts to fabricate or repair machine tools and maintain industrial machines.
- Install and repair mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems and components in industrial machinery and equipment.
- Develop work plans for emergency repair of critical assets.
- Assist with allocating, coordinating, executing, communicating, and closing work orders.
- Assist the Facility Maintenance Manager with corporate and facility projects.
- Lead installations, relocations, and removals of production machinery and equipment.
- Coordinate, establish, and train bargaining unit mechanics to advance skill sets, fill department roles, and maintain workflow.
- Travel offsite as needed to conduct inspections, repairs, acquire parts, or evaluate equipment.
- Fill in for the Facility Maintenance Manager to direct work scheduling, repairs, and personnel.
- Conduct training for maintenance personnel as scheduled, when needed, or when opportunities arise.
- Delegate or assign specific duties and special projects to technicians based on their skill sets.
- Mentor technicians by motivating them and providing guidance and direction to help them achieve their goals.
- Assist the department manager by working directly with outside contractors on scheduling, monitoring, retesting, obtaining repair approval, maintaining job safety standards, and ensuring repairs are completed correctly.
- Represent the Facility Maintenance Manager in meetings and conferences.
- Listen for unusual sounds and test malfunctioning equipment to detect malfunctions; discuss machine-operation variations with supervisors or other maintenance workers to diagnose problems or repair machines.
- Inspect and measure machine parts to detect wear, misalignment, or other problems.
- Dismantle machines or equipment, replace defective parts and motors, and adjust feed mechanisms.
- Inspect machinery electrical wiring, switches, and controls for safe operating condition, grounding, and adjustment.
- Connect wires to motors, fixtures, and other electrical equipment; replace switches and fuses; splice and insulate wires.
- Realign and adjust machine components such as spindles and clutches.
- Replace electric motor bearings and rewire motors.
- Lay out, assemble, install, and maintain pipe systems and related hydraulic and pneumatic equipment; repair and replace gauges, valves, pressure regulators, and related equipment.
- Replace faulty electrical machine components such as relays, switches, and motors, and position sensing devices.
- Install and repair electrical apparatus such as transformers and wiring, and electrical and electronic machinery components.
- Diagnose and repair or replace faulty electronic components such as printed circuit boards.
- Plan wiring layouts and install wiring, conduit, and electrical apparatus in buildings.
- Install, program, or repair automated machinery and equipment such as robots, computer numerical control machine tools, or programmable controllers.
- Use robotic controllers, teach pendants, and programmable controllers to program automated machinery, test for malfunctions, and verify repairs.
- Modify computer-controlled motion of robots or computer numerical control machine tools.
- Operate cutting torches or welding equipment to cut or join metal parts.
- Set up and operate lathes, grinders, drills, and milling machines to repair or fabricate machine parts, jigs, fixtures, and tools.
- Maintain the work area in a safe, clean, and orderly condition.
- Implement engineered process improvements and sustain continuous-improvement objectives.
- Visually inspect and test machinery and equipment.
About the company
Southern States, LLC provides essential high voltage switching products and related services to electric utilities across the U.S. and Canada. Its products are designed to transfer bulk power, switch loads to balance the grid, and protect equipment from damaging overcurrents, all engineered to high technical standards and manufactured from quality materials by skilled craftsmen. The company differentiates itself through a century-long history, a strong focus on precision engineering and craftsmanship, and a dedicated commitment to serving the utility sector. Its goal is to keep the electric power infrastructure reliable and safe by supplying durable equipment and dependable support to utilities.
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Hampton, Virginia
Founded
1916
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- AI data centers are forcing utilities to buy more switches, substations, and protection gear.
- Bennett marked forty years in July 2026, signaling sticky logistics for oversized equipment.
- Southern States Investment Holdings owns more than ten grid companies, creating cross-sell leverage.
What critics are saying
- Commodity and utility capex cycles squeeze switch orders when grid spending pauses.
- North American giants like Siemens Energy and Eaton can bundle broader substation contracts.
- A single manufacturing or quality failure could halt grid deployments and damage decades-old trust.
What makes Southern States, LLC unique
- O2rigen replaces SF6 with CO2-O2 switching, launching February 2026.
- CG-20 Bypass Switch enables outage-free transmission maintenance, announced September 2026.
- SkySafe integration adds real-time drone detection for utilities facing NERC CIP scrutiny.
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Benefits
Paid Holidays
Paid Vacation
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Employee Discounts
Company News
Southern States launches industry's first patented outage-free Bypass Switch. Sept. 14, 2026 Press Contacts Kristin Thompson 7709464562 HAMPTON, Ga. - September 14, 2026 - Southern States LLC, a leading innovator of power safety, reliability, and quality solutions, proudly announces the launch of its newest innovation - the CG-20 Bypass Switch. This patented switch is the first of its kind in the utility industry, enabling full current switch maintenance operations without requiring a transmission line outage. Designed for electric utilities and industrial transmission owners, the CG-20 addresses a long-standing challenge: performing routine switch maintenance without disrupting service. The CG-20's fully integrated, single-structure design features a full current secondary arm, allowing the main switch to be opened while maintaining line continuity. "The CG-20 "answers the need to exercise your switches at any desired interval without impacting customers" said Thermando Stephens, Transmission Product Development Manager at Southern States. "It's a true breakthrough in transmission reliability and maintenance planning." Protected under a Southern States patent, the CG-20 offers a unique solution for utilities seeking to perform switch maintenance without planned outages. This exclusivity provides utility operators with a competitive advantage in reliability, safety, and operational efficiency. Key Benefits: * Enables outage-free switch maintenance on transmission lines * Simplifies operations with a single-structure design * Supports full current switching during maintenance * Reduces the risk of operational failure due to infrequent cycling * Patent pending-protected and exclusive to Southern States To learn more about the CG-20 Bypass Switch or request a product briefing, visit www.southernstatesllc.com/products/switch-accessories/cg-20-bypass-switch or contact [email protected]. Founded in 1916, Southern States, LLC is a global leader in high voltage disconnect switches, gas interrupters, and advanced technologies that help protect and strengthen the electric power grid. The company delivers specialized protection and switching equipment, power electronic solutions, mobile grid resilience, high voltage sensors and automation systems and services that enhance asset protection. Backed by a robust portfolio of patented technologies, Southern States is known for its engineering expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and ability to deliver customized solutions for complex power system challenges. As the cornerstone company within Southern States Investment Holdings, the company contributes to the development of a modern, more resilient electric grid across North America and worldwide.
Celebrating 40 years of partnership between Bennett and Southern States at EchoPark Speedway. McDonough, GA (July 11, 2026) - Bennett and Southern States, LLC recognized their 40-year partnership during race weekend at EchoPark Speedway, honoring two Henry County companies whose longstanding relationship has helped power America's electric grid while contributing to the region's economic growth. As the Official Trucking and Logistics Partner of EchoPark Speedway, Bennett featured the Southern States logo on the decklid of Austin Hill's No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race, commemorating four decades of partnership. Bennett hosted a special race experience for both companies' employees, beginning with a pre-race celebration that included a Q&A and appearance by Austin Hill. The ceremony featured remarks from ownership and executives of both companies, including Marcia G. Taylor, Founder and CEO of Bennett, Raj Anand, Executive Chairman of Southern States, David Pittman, President of Bennett and John Paserba, President and CEO of Southern States and closed with the presentation of commemorative trophies. "Southern States isn't just a customer to us, they're family. For forty years, they've trusted us with the equipment that keeps the power on for millions of people, and we have never taken that lightly. Our partnership continues to grow because our core values align, and hard-working people from both companies make it happen every day. I'm grateful to everyone, on both sides, who built this partnership one load at a time." [Marcia G. Taylor, Owner and CEO of Bennett] Headquartered just miles from EchoPark Speedway, Bennett and Southern States have worked together for 40 years to move critical power grid equipment safely and efficiently across the country. Their shared commitment to innovation, reliability, and community reflects the values that have made both companies leaders in their industries. "For four decades, Bennett has been an outstanding partner, who have helped us through supply chain challenges large and small to make sure our customers are satisfied. As the demand for electric power grows, that kind of trust matters more than ever. We are proud to celebrate this milestone and to keep building the future together." [Raj Anand, Executive Chairman of Southern States, LLC] "The whole world is racing into artificial intelligence. But here's what people forget. AI doesn't run on thin air. It runs on data centers, and data centers run on power, more than this country has ever produced. That means the grid has to be rebuilt on a scale we've never seen. New substations, new transmission, bigger and more specialized equipment, reaching more places than ever. Now look at who's standing here to meet that moment. Southern States builds the high voltage equipment that grid needs. Bennett moves it. The very thing that's going to power the future is the very thing these two companies do best. That AI boom is going to carry Southern States and Bennett right along with it." [David Pittman, President of Bennett] "While anniversaries celebrate the passing of time, they are really about people. They are about the individuals who built this partnership, nurtured it, and strengthened it through years of hard work, mutual respect, and dedication. Today's celebration is not only about honoring our past - it is also about looking ahead. As demand for reliable electrical infrastructure and energy solutions continues to grow, strong partnerships like ours will be more important than ever." [John Paserba, President and CEO of Southern States, LLC] The race weekend highlighted the important role local businesses play in supporting the regional economy while providing a national stage to recognize partnerships that have stood the test of time. "EchoPark Speedway was proud to celebrate two companies that have called Henry County home for decades. Their partnership is a testament to the strength of local businesses working together to make an impact both in our community and across the country." [Brandon Hutchison, Executive Vice President and General Manager of EchoPark Speedway] The celebration honored 40 years of collaboration between Bennett and Southern States and reflected their continued commitment to powering the future together. For additional information, please reach out to Kaitlen Jones, Manager of Markering and Communications at [email protected]. About Bennett Family of Companies McDonough, GA-based Bennett Family of Companies is woman-owned, Women's Business Enterprise Council (WBENC)-certified. Through its 14 affiliated operating companies, the Bennett Family of Companies helps arrange integrated transportation and supply chain management solutions worldwide. For more information, visit www.bennettig.com. About Southern States, LLC Founded in 1916, Southern States, LLC is a global leader in high voltage disconnect switches, gas interrupters, and advanced technologies that help protect and strengthen the electric power grid. The company delivers specialized protection and switching equipment, power electronic solutions, mobile grid resilience, high voltage sensors and automation systems and services that enhance asset protection. Backed by a robust portfolio of patented technologies, Southern States is known for its engineering expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and ability to deliver customized solutions for complex power system challenges. As the cornerstone company within Southern States Investment Holdings, the company contributes to the development of a modern, more resilient electric grid across North America and worldwide. About EchoPark Speedway EchoPark Speedway is a premier entertainment venue located about 30 miles south of Atlanta, Ga. Since 1960, EchoPark Speedway has been a staple of the NASCAR calendar and currently hosts two weekends of racing in the spring and fall each year. When NASCAR isn't in town, EchoPark Speedway's versatile facility hosts an assortment of events that attract visitors from near and far, from Monster Jam to the Georgia State Fair and everything in between. For more information on EchoPark Speedway and to see upcoming events at the facility, visit www.EchoParkSpeedway.com.
Southern States LLC has partnered with SkySafe to integrate drone detection and airspace intelligence into its Layered Airspace Protection Strategy for critical energy infrastructure. The collaboration follows passage of the US Congress Safer Skies Act, enabling critical infrastructure sites to better address drone threats. SkySafe's cloud-based platform will provide real-time drone identification, flight path history and operator location awareness across substations, generation sites and transmission corridors. The system delivers persistent airspace monitoring and compliance-ready reporting aligned with NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection standards. The partnership addresses growing drone activity near critical infrastructure, which poses risks to grid resilience and regulatory compliance. Southern States, founded in 1916, specialises in high-voltage equipment and grid protection technologies. SkySafe provides airspace intelligence through its drone detection and analytics platform.
Southern States enhances Layered Airspace Protection Strategy with skysafe's drone detection and airspace intelligence. Partnership integrates real-time drone detection and compliance-ready airspace intelligence for law enforcement and utilities preparing to defeat terrorist drone threats as part of the Safer Skies Act. Mar 5, 2026 HAMPTON, Ga. and SAN DIEGO, March 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - As unauthorized drone activity surges near critical infrastructure nationwide, Southern States LLC and SkySafe today announced a strategic partnership to deliver real-time drone detection and airspace intelligence purpose-built for America's energy sites. Southern States have spent more than a century protecting the infrastructure that powers its communities," said Melissa Swisher, Chief Revenue Officer of SkySafe. "By integrating our drone detection and airspace intelligence platform into their Layered Airspace Protection Strategy, we are delivering persistent airspace visibility that enables utilities to detect, analyze and act with confidence." Following passage of the Safer Skies Act by the U.S. Congress, law enforcement and critical infrastructure sites can now catch up to drone technologies and move forward to better protect its country. This collaboration integrates SkySafe's advanced drone detection platform into Southern States existing Airspace Awareness product line, providing utilities with airspace visibility into drone activity over substations, generations sites, and transmission corridors. The announcement comes at a time when utilities face heightened scrutiny under NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards and continued oversight from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Drone incursions, whether for reconnaissance, disruption, or malicious intent, present a growing risk to grid resilience and regulatory compliance. Traditional physical security measures were not designed to address low-altitude aerial threats. SkySafe's cloud-based drone detection platform enhances Southern States' existing solution by providing real-time drone identification, flight path history, and operator location awareness. Utilities can distinguish authorized drones from unknown aircraft, document incidents with audit-ready logs, and respond faster to emerging threats. "Drone activity and terrorist threats around critical infrastructure are no longer hypothetical; it is happening," said Patrick James, Director of Grid Security Solutions at Southern States. "By integrating SkySafe's drone detection and airspace intelligence into our portfolio, we are giving utilities the visibility and tools they need to protect essential grid assets and strengthen their compliance posture." Utilities must now account for aerial exposure as part of a comprehensive security strategy. The Southern States-SkySafe solution supports that need by: * Delivering persistent airspace monitoring across high-value energy infrastructure * Identifying drone make, model, and telemetry in real time * Enabling operator location awareness to support rapid response * Generating compliance-ready reporting aligned with NERC CIP requirements * Reducing operational disruption risk through early detection of reconnaissance activity For utilities operating in an environment of increasing geopolitical tension and domestic infrastructure threats, persistent airspace awareness is emerging as a foundational component of grid protection. The partnership reflects growing recognition across the energy sector that modern infrastructure protection requires dedicated drone detection and airspace intelligence capabilities extending beyond traditional ground perimeter security. Together, SkySafe and Southern States are expanding their footprint across critical infrastructure, delivering real-time airspace visibility that provides energy operators with actionable insight into aerial activity. About SkySafe SkySafe is the global leader in airspace intelligence, delivering unmatched visibility into drone activity. As the only company offering advanced drone detection, deep analytics, and forensics, SkySafe enables organizations to identify, track, and understand real-time drone activity with precision. Its cloud-based SaaS platform provides comprehensive drone data, helping distinguish between authorized drones and potential threats. By transforming complex drone data into actionable insight, SkySafe empowers organizations to act with clarity and confidence and provides the intelligence needed for smarter decision-making and safer skies. About Southern States, LLC Founded in 1916, Southern States, LLC is a global leader in high voltage disconnect switches, gas interrupters, and advanced technologies that help protect and strengthen the electric power grid. The company delivers specialized protection and switching equipment, power electronic solutions, mobile grid resilience, high voltage sensors, and automation systems and services that enhance asset protection. Backed by a robust portfolio of patented technologies, Southern States is known for its engineering expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and ability to deliver customized solutions for complex power system challenges. As the cornerstone company within Southern States Investment Holdings, the company contributes to the development of a modern, more resilient electric grid across North America and worldwide. Media Contact LaunchSquad for SkySafe [email protected]
Southern States LLC has launched O2rigen, a CO2 + O2 insulating gas technology for power grid switching with a global warming potential of less than 1. The solution uses pure, natural-origin gas free from synthetic additives to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions whilst complying with California Air Resources Board regulations. The technology addresses environmental concerns around SF6 gases and offers customers an open, widely available alternative with no purchase restrictions. Products arrive ready for installation without requiring on-site gas filling or complex reclamation. The first two O2rigen products—LLS-O2rigen and Cap38-O2rigen—extend Southern States' existing load-break and capacitor bank switching solutions. Founded in 1916, Southern States is the world's largest high-voltage disconnect switch manufacturer. The technology will preview at DISTRIBUTECH in San Diego from 2-5 February 2026.