Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative is seeking a dependable, detail-oriented individual to join our Engineering Department. The primary responsibilities include processing service applications, scheduling staking appointments, maintaining records, and assisting cooperative members. The employee will also receive ongoing training in pole inspection, fieldwork, mapping, and staking assistance to provide support across multiple Engineering Department functions.

Primary Responsibilities:

One click can infect your computer with malware. Scammers want you to act before you have time to think. Before clicking a link in an email or text, stop and look closely. Is the message unexpected? Hover over the link without clicking - does the website address look legitimate? Is someone pressuring you to act immediately?

Who needs a superhero cape when you can ride in a bucket truck? HOEC saved the day (or at least the candy supply) at the Trunk or Treat/Touch a Truck event with Midwest Easterseals! Kids (and let's be real, adults too) had a blast trick-or-treating and getting up close and personal with the cool emergency vehicles. More photos below.

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which is a great time to strengthen your online accounts. One of the easiest steps? Make your passwords longer. A long, unique passphrase can be harder for cybercriminals to crack than a short password packed with special characters.

CEO/General Manager Aaron Wheeler talks about what is going on at the cooperative and why it is important for our members.

Before lighting a bonfire, look up and look around. Keep fires, sparks, smoke and gathering areas well away from overhead power lines.

Your heating system is about to work hard all winter, which means a little maintenance now can go a long way! One simple heating-efficiency tip: check your HVAC filter. A dirty or clogged filter can restrict airflow and make your system work harder to keep your home comfortable. Make cleaning or replacing your filter part of your regular home maintenance routine.

As fall temperatures fluctuate, your thermostat settings can make a difference on energy bills. On cooler days, lower the thermostat to limit heating costs, and raise it during days that are warmer to control air conditioning usage. On milder days, consider turning off your heating and cooling system altogether.

For your safety, find out if your medical device is compatible with backup power, like XC Batteries or a generator, in case of a power outage. Check how long it can operate during an outage and keep device-specific supplies on hand.