Electric Systems Manager

Job Summary

The Electric System Manager is responsible for operating and maintaining the City of Lexington electric distribution system in an economical, efficient, safe, and reliable manner as contracted for in the Operating Agreement with the City. This includes managing and administering the Operating Agreement and other contracts and agreements necessary for the operation and maintenance of the City’s electric distribution system, along with constructing, installing, operating, and maintaining the City’s electric distribution system. The division is located in the Lexington Operations Center.

Primary Responsibilities

• Ensures that ElectriCities meets all obligations under the Operating Agreement with Lexington.
• Directs day-to-day operations of the Lexington electric distribution system, including, but not limited to:
  • Planning and scheduling of maintenance and construction work, retail electric meter maintenance and accounting assistance when asked by the City regarding billing and collections.
  • Procurement and management of supplies, materials and equipment.
  • Oversight of electric operations staff, ensuring staff development and adherence to policies, procedures and controls.
  • All other responsibilities necessary for the reliable, safe and efficient operation of the Lexington electric distribution system.
• Works closely with the Lexington City Manager and Staff to develop strategic plans and business strategies, develop annual budgets and retail rate projections.
• Identifies, develops, recommends, and implements electric distribution system projects and funding sources (i.e. issuance of debt, electric rates or working capital) consistent with Lexington directives.
• Understands the local political environment and effectively communicates with Lexington’s City Council, City Manager and Staff, and public on all public power issues: operational, financial, electric rates, distribution system long-range planning, economic development, and territorial matters.
• Develops and maintains positive working relationships with other Electric System Managers at ElectriCities and looks for opportunities to optimize the use of resources to reduce costs and/or improve services to the Cities/Towns operated by ElectriCities.
• Develops and maintains positive working relationships with Duke Energy, local cooperatives, and other ElectriCities members.
• Promotes and serves as an education resource for ElectriCities programs and services.
• Stays abreast of legislative activities that may or will impact Lexington and presents options for compliance.
• Ensures adherence to all federal, state and local laws, regulations and reporting requirements, including compliance with North Carolina governmental accounting practices, procurement law, electric system reliability standards and debt issuance compliance.
• Provides technical, administrative and supervisory guidance for the day-to-day operations of the Lexington Operations Center, including personnel matters (e.g. hiring and terminations, timesheet approvals, expense reports, etc.).
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Physical Requirements

The Electric System Manager must maintain the physical condition necessary to perform tasks in an office setting such as operating a personal computer, keyboard, and other peripheral equipment. Frequent travel within the state of North Carolina and periodic travel within the U.S. is required.

Controls

The Electric System Manager works under the general guidance of the Vice President, Distribution Operations who reviews the employee’s work performance under ElectriCities guidelines in terms of overall effectiveness and who provides professional guidance as needed. The Vice President, Distribution Operations also approves requests for vacations and other time off. This position is exempt from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, preferably Electrical, or a related field or equivalent work experience.
• A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible work experience, preferably in a municipal electrical utility environment, which includes extensive experience in electric utility management. An equivalent combination of education and experience is also acceptable.
• A designation as a licensed Professional Engineer is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to set the example and culture of high ethical standards; leadership stature; strategic and tactical planning; a talent for managing change; problem solving and decision-making skills; tenacity; and an ability to motivate.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain a positive community image and effectively communicate and interact with elected officials, customers, competitors, and the public.
• Demonstrated ability to promote the value of Public Power and build and maintain positive, professional, and productive relationships with key stakeholders.

ElectriCities is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

About ElectriCities

ElectriCities of North Carolina, Inc., is the membership organization that provides power supply and related critical services to over 90 community-owned electric systems in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia—collectively known as public power. ElectriCities manages the power supply for two power agencies in North Carolina and provides technical services to assist members in operating their electric distribution systems. ElectriCities also helps these locally owned and operated public power providers thrive today and in the future by delivering innovative services, including legislative, technical, communications, and economic development expertise.

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