Area Operations Manager

Job PurposeManage and coordinate construction, maintenance and operations of the electrical transmission and distribution system facilities within assigned service area in such a manner that meets the established standards and reflects the most efficient utilization of construction and operation methods, techniques and equipment.
Duties and ResponsibilitiesEnsure both new and existing member service requests are handled in the most efficient manner according to established service rules and regulations.Resolve complaints and inquiries about electric service or operations personnel conduct to maintain strong member relations and employee morale.Manage internal and external resources of labor, equipment, and materials, to ensure that electric facilities are constructed and maintained in a safe and efficient manner and in accordance with applicable codes and standards.Review the operating performance of assigned service area substations, transmission and distribution system and recommends corrective actions or improvements in service.Assist in developing switching procedures and recommends changes in system configuration and construction to ensure positive levels of performance.Oversee and evaluate contractors involved in line construction and maintenance, tree trimming, right-of-way clearing, substation lot maintenance, and other field support activities to ensure quality, schedule and cost expectations are met.Assist in the operation and maintenance of load management and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) equipment.Participate in the development of broad objectives, policies, and plans for the growth and operation of the Cooperative. (long- and short-range plans, budgets, improvement plans, and organization)Understand and interpret the Fort Bliss Army Base or Laughlin Air Force Base Utility Privatization Contracts. Provide guidance and assistance with administration of the contracts. (If applicable to the service area.)Promote, develop, and maintain good morale and team spirit by appropriate delegation, coaching and counseling, performance appraisals and recognition of achievements, and participation in safety meetings.Monitor the training requirements of line personnel to ensure compliance with established policies, practices, procedures, and progression objectives of the Lineman Apprenticeship Program.Schedule and assign work orders for construction and maintenance in accordance with the Cooperative standards. Secure and schedule personnel, equipment and materials to accomplish assigned Work Plan goals and/or planning in the event of weather related (storm) damage efforts.Develop, schedule and direct periodic line patrol, voltage and load measurements, and evaluations of the physical and electrical conditions of the distribution system; and implement appropriate and timely remedial action to maintain continuity and power quality standards for electric service.Maintain a current knowledge and understanding of Rural Utilities Service (RUS), National Electric Safety Code (NESC), Cooperative Safety Manual and other applicable standards and regulations to ensure that the Cooperative's distribution facilities are constructed and operated in a safe and efficient manner, consistent with these standards.Direct the vehicle and power equipment maintenance and repair activities for the assigned office to effectively ensure extended, reliable service and functionality of the equipment.Assist Risk Management with investigations of employee accidents and prepares reports of personnel injuries, accidents and possible property damage claims in accordance with Accident Prevention Plan (APP).Oversee the general office maintenance activities, as assigned, to ensure an environment that is clean and pleasing for employees and member consumers.Encourage and support community engagement aimed at improving the quality of life within the Cooperative's service area.Participate and represent as a member of the management team in meetings and other assigned functions.Provide on-call support as needed.Coordinate with other departments, as needed.Maintain confidential information.QualificationsAssociate's and/or technical degree with 5 years of relevant job-related experience or 10 or more years' experience with an electric cooperative or electric utility, including at least five years' experience as a line or maintenance supervisor or lead person, and/or at least five years of experience as a lineman performing line construction or maintenance work.Knowledge of the construction, operation, and maintenance of distribution and transmission lines, and substations.Must possess knowledge of the National Electrical Safety Code, RUS Materials Specifications Construction, OSHA regulations, pole-top rescue, hand tools, line construction vehicles and equipment, and aerial bucket trucks.Ability to read, understand and apply the information on the Cooperative's system maps, Rural Utilities Services (RUS) specifications, and assembly and material specifications.Capable of conducting public meetings, speeches and presentations to a variety of groups as requested.Must possess excellent problem solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.Working knowledge of leadership and supervisory principles is required.Ability to train, motivate, and evaluate subordinates, to communicate with people at all organizational levels, and to work in a positive manner with the public.Ability to complete and process documents that support the Cooperative's administrative processes.Must possess good computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to become familiar with other software applications.Must make and maintain bona fide residential abode within surrounding area of assigned office.Must demonstrate ability to work safely and comply with Cooperative's safety rules.Possess a valid Texas driver's license; Texas Class "A" Interstate CDL is preferred.Insurable with the Cooperative's auto insurance carrier.Possess good oral and written communications skills in the English language and be able to communicate technical information effectively.Possess excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to maintain a harmonious working relationship with all Cooperative employees, members, suppliers and consultants.Must be or become certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.Working ConditionsIndoor office work environment in addition to outdoor work required.Exposure to extreme weather conditions; heat, cold, high winds or storm conditions.Travel and overnight stay(s) will be required for meetings and/or training.Subject to irregular hours.To ensure all employees are provided with drug free and alcohol-free working conditions, pre-employment, post-accident, reasonable cause and random drug and alcohol tests are conducted on all employees.Physical RequirementsRequired to pass a physical examination when employed.Must have sufficient health to perform the essential functions, duties and responsibilities of the job.Requires standing, crawling, climbing, bending, pulling, reaching, lifting, pushing, and carrying of weights.Direct ReportsLine crew.Mechanic(s); if applicable.Maintenance Technician; if applicable._______________________________________________________________________________________________________

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