City and Borough of Sitka is an equal opportunity employer.

Send completed application and resume to hr@cityofsitka.org

Position Open Until Filled.

The Electric Utility Director leads and manages the operations of the Electric Utility Department for the City and Borough of Sitka. This position is pivotal in ensuring the efficient functioning of the power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, with a focus on modernization and compliance.  The Electric Utility Director also serves as a vital link between the Utility and other Departments within the Municipality, the citizens of Sitka, and other stakeholders.

The principal function of an employee in this class is to supervise and coordinate all the activities of power generation, transmission, and distribution for Municipality.  Responsible for the day-to-day operations and the direct supervision of the Electric Utility employees, the Electric Utility Director also will be expected to work closely and cooperatively with the leadership team of the City and Borough of Sitka as to develop and implement a strategic plan for the utility consistent with the Municipality’s strategic plan, interdepartmental efficiencies and policies, while at the same time provide efficient and cost-effective delivery of electrical services to the community of Sitka.

The Electric Utility Director works the general supervision of the Municipal Administrator. Extensive leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgment and discretion.

• Lead, organize, and oversee all Electric Utility Department activities.
• Supervise, motivate, train, and evaluate Electric Utility Department employees.
• Develop, review, and approve annual budgets while monitoring expenditures.
• Provide technical guidance to the Administrator, Sitka Assembly, and other departments on utility programs.
• Prepare and present contracts, construction agreements, leases, and projects to relevant stakeholders.
• Analyze quarterly operating reports and drive efforts to enhance financial and technical service levels.
• Coordinate long-term planning and oversee capital improvement projects.
• Collaborate with the City Attorney on legal matters concerning the Department.
• Represent the Municipality on boards and before federal and state regulatory bodies.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination with colleagues, partners, and the public.
• Stay current on industry developments through attendance at meetings, conferences, and workshops.
• Address citizen inquiries promptly and courteously.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Knowledge:

• Comprehensive knowledge of electric generation, transmission, distribution, operation and maintenance principles, practices and procedures
• Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of electrical engineering
• Strong knowledge of industry statutes, regulations, and ordinances as well as industry standards and  best practices
• Strong knowledge of effective management, organizational change, and leadership principles

Skills:

• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills leading organizational change and achieving operational efficiencies
• Effective communication and presentation skills, both verbal and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language 
• Up-to-date skills in use of technology  at an electric utility  including use of a personal computer using both standard and customized software applications
• Strong writing skills in drafting and preparing various documents, including but not limited to contract specifications, scope of work descriptions, and long-range planning
• Strong leadership skills which demonstrate the ability to manage and control large construction projects and expenditures and strategic plans
• Strong skills showing attention to detail resulting in accurate and reliable reports

Abilities:

•  Excellent analytical problem-solving and decision making abilities which use logical and creative thought processes to develop solutions and make decisions;
• Ability to organize and direct the activities of professional, technical, and clerical staff in both a union and non-union setting;
• Ability to handle confidential employee and administrative information with tact and discretion.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written policies, procedures and instructions;
• Ability to perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines;
• Ability and willingness to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology;