Utility Operations Manager
Salary: $150,707.46 - $180,848.95 AnnuallyLocation : Naperville, ILJob Type: Full TimeJob Number: 7099Department: Department of Public Utilities - ElectricOpening Date: 07/31/2025 Job DescriptionThe City of Naperville's Electric Utility is currently seeking a Utility Operations Manager to manage and direct the daily operations and maintenance of the Distribution and Substations divisions/sections, provide leadership to section employees, and direct electric utility construction, operating & maintenance crews, electrical contractors, and vendors. The Operations Manager reviews, monitors, schedules, and assigns work in accordance with work orders and service requests, and plans workload & workforce for short-term and long-range application.The anticipated hiring range for this position is $150,707.46 - $180,848.95 per year, commensurate with credentials and experience. The Pay Grade for this position is E280. For additional information, please click here Duties
- Manages safety for the Operations section.
- Oversees daily operations, construction, and maintenance of the Electric Distribution System.
- Oversees daily operations of Substations section.
- Negotiates with Utility Engineering Manager on scheduling the constructability of engineering plans and specifications.
- Directs, oversees, executes, and participates in the development of the division's work plan. Oversees work activities, projects, programs, and monitors workflow. Coordinates activities with other divisions and departments.
- Provides oversight and direction for outage response and storm support.
- Coordinates contracts of outside vendors performing repair, maintenance, or construction.
- Confers with Deputy Directors and Division/Section Managers regarding methods to achieve departmental goals and objectives and drive efficiency.
- Develops and implements annual division budget for operations, maintenance, and capital equipment. Recommends division/section purchases and payments and partners with Assets/Warehouse to best maintain ongoing inventory. Develops necessary financial requirements for special projects.
- Specifies, plans, and coordinates with Fleet Services the procurement of utility vehicles and specialized utility construction machinery.
- Staffs the division/section according to the Director's guidelines. Provides and/or coordinates staff training. Conducts employee performance evaluations. Recommends and administers disciplinary action, including employee termination, when necessary.
- Interprets City and departmental policies for employees, including administration of union contract(s).
- Addresses customer complaints, answers questions, and provides information to the public.
- Attends staff, safety, planning, and other meetings related to electric operations requirements.
- Makes critical decisions to resolve the emergency conditions that may arise within the utility system.
- Represents the City and Electric Utility at meetings outside City with other agencies and responds to inquiries from general public concerning division/section operations, projects, and programs.
- Reviews engineering plans, specifications, and daily operations for practical application.
- Reviews workload and prioritizes for scheduling.
- Coordinates projects and daily operations with other utilities and departments, developers, builders, and property owners.
- Coordinates/directs activities of contractors in the construction of electrical systems as required. Prepares correspondence and communicates with contractors, developers, and other departments.
- Inspects construction activities in the field. Interprets specifications and authorizes deviations.
- Supervises and documents all construction performed by outside contractors.
- Confers with Deputy Directors and Division/Section Managers to recommend implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and procedures.
- Processes paperwork and maintains related records.
- Meets with citizens, community representatives, and developers to review proposed and ongoing projects and activities.
- Utilizes technology and automation to streamline, implement and, administer projects and programs.
- Attends and schedules various meetings including preconstruction, coordination, and concept design.
- Prepares and evaluates bidding documents and specifications.
- May be required to perform on-duty obligations.
- May assume basic responsibilities of the Deputy Director in their absence.
- Operates collaboratively and strategically as a member of the Electric Utility management/supervisory team.
- Performs all other duties as assigned.
- A Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
- Five to seven years of experience in a public utility or closely related field.
- One to three years of supervisory experience, preferably in a union environment.
- A valid State of Illinois driver's license.
- A Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Four or more years of supervisory experience, preferably in a union environment.
- A State of Illinois Professional Engineer (PE) License.
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- IMRF (Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund) or Fire/Police Pension Programs
- May be eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program (if requirements are met)
- Deferred Compensation Investment Plans
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Additional Voluntary Benefits
- Paid Time Off and Holidays
- Sick Time
- Paid Maternity and New Parent Leave
- Service and Recognition Awards