Sioux Valley Energy is looking for a dedicated Operations Manager to lead and coordinate the construction, operation, and maintenance of the Cooperative's electric distribution facilities in the southern portion of our service territory in South Dakota and Minnesota. The position reports to the Director of Operations and will be based at the Brandon Service Center.
The Operations Manager provides leadership and direction to Journey Lineworkers, Apprentice Lineworkers, and Lead Journey Lineworkers. Key responsibilities include coordinating personnel, equipment, materials, contractors, and work plans while maintaining a strong focus on safety, reliability, power quality, productivity, and member service.
The ideal candidate will have extensive electric utility operations experience and a strong understanding of distribution systems, safe work practices, and applicable industry standards. Strong leadership, communication, project management, and problem-solving skills are essential. The successful candidate must be able to manage multiple priorities, coordinate work plans, monitor budgets and performance, and build positive relationships with employees, members, contractors, and Cooperative personnel.
EDUCATION: Technical school degree in powerline work or a related field, with specialized training in electric utility operations, strongly preferred. A four-year Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, business, or a related field is preferred.
EXPERIENCE: Five years of experience in power systems operations and/or engineering required.
JOB KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of distribution system operations, system layout, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), and safe working practices required. Proficiency with spreadsheet, word processing, and database applications required. Knowledge of transportation and power-operated equipment applications and regulations is also required.
ABILITIES AND SKILLS: Strong project and people management skills, excellent communication and human relations skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities are required. Must be able to analyze data and reports, coordinate people and resources, supervise employees, evaluate performance, develop plans and procedures, and work effectively under stress.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions in addition to normal office work. Occasional work outside normal hours is required.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Medium work requiring exertion of up to 50 pounds occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds more frequently. Requires standing, crawling, climbing, bending, pulling, reaching, and lifting/carrying 10 to 50 pounds occasionally. Work includes exposure to cold below 32 degrees, heat above 100 degrees, mechanical and electrical hazards, burns, confined spaces, operating machinery, odors, dust, and dirt. Safety equipment is required. Must be able to read, write, perform arithmetic, and communicate effectively. Valid driver's license required.
REPORTING LOCATION: Brandon Service Center. The successful candidate must live within the Sioux Valley Energy service territory, with location approved by the VP of Human Resources and Member Services and VP of Engineering and Operations.
