The Director of Electric System Construction is responsible for the strategic leadership, planning, execution, and continuous improvement of all electric utility construction activities, including transmission, distribution, and system infrastructure projects. This role provides leadership and oversight for approximately 4 6 direct reports and 90 indirect reports, ensuring construction programs are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory requirements while supporting system reliability, customer growth, and corporate objectives.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Other related duties may be assigned. An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and effectively. Reasonable accommodation may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Strategic/Leadership
- Drives vision and purpose by connecting construction priorities to Client's mission and strategic goals and inspiring employees to uphold a strong safety culture. Ensures compliance with company policies, engineering standards, environmental regulations, and governmental requirements, including OSHA, VOSHA, VDOT, DEQ, and other regulatory agencies.
- Builds effective teams by establishing shared goals and encouraging open dialogue. Oversees the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of training programs that strengthen the technical and vocational capabilities of Construction Department employees.
- Establishes and maintains systems and controls which verify the integrity of all systems, processes, and data, and enhance the Company's value.
- Leads workforce planning and resource optimization efforts for System Construction staff across all districts to increase efficiency, enhance employee development, and build a highly skilled organization. Ensures the appropriate mix of Full-Time Employees (FTEs) and contract employees to meet operational requirements and strategic objectives.
- Ensures the department is in full compliance with the IBEW contract.
- Ensures optimal system performance through maintenance of distribution and transmission systems.
- Leads and develops department by overseeing staffing, training, coaching, performance management, and employee development activities, while establishing clear goals and objectives and ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.
- Ensures construction operations are supported with the necessary fleet, equipment, tools, technologies, and resources to meet safety, productivity, and project objectives.
Functional/Operational
- Applies a strategic mindset to anticipate system needs and coordinate with engineering, operations, and other departments to develop long-range and short-range distribution and transmission facility construction and maintenance plans that support system reliability, customer growth, and corporate objectives.
- Drives results by leading continuous improvement of work management processes, productivity measures, information systems, and resource planning. Guides staff in refining practices and overcoming obstacles to achieve construction and maintenance goals safely, on schedule, and within budget. Assists staff in developing and refining practices that support the achievement of construction and maintenance goals.
- Manages complexity in the development, negotiation, administration, and oversight of construction contracts, service agreements, and annual contract renewals by evaluating financial, operational, and regulatory risks to guide decisions. Obtains approval from the CEO and Board of Directors when required.
- Applies financial acumen to develop and manage departmental capital and operating budgets and allocate resources to achieve construction goals within budget.
- Supports system reliability initiatives through effective maintenance and replacement programs for electric utility infrastructure.
- Promotes continuous improvement through process evaluation, technology adoption, and operational best practices.
- Ensures availability and readiness of employees, equipment, materials, and contractor resources to support operational needs.
- Develops and manages relationships with construction contractors, engineering firms, and equipment suppliers.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, or a related field is required. Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering Management, or related discipline is preferred.
- Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive leadership (supervising, managing, directing) experience in electric utility construction, operations, engineering, asset management, or related is required.
- Experience managing transmission and distribution construction projects, budgets, and contract administration is required.
- Experience leading emergency restoration, and utility infrastructure programs is required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
Strategic/Leadership
Proven ability to lead large teams and achieve results through others.
Experienced in leading large teams and driving sustained performance through effective delegation, leadership development, and the alignment of people, processes, and business priorities.
Ability to develop high-performing teams and create a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Effective communication, interpersonal, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to influence organizational decisions and effectively communicate with executive leadership.
Demonstrated strategic thinking with the ability to align operational activities with long-term business objectives.
Knowledge of labor relations, workforce planning, talent development, and performance management.
Functional/Operational
Strong knowledge of electric utility transmission, distribution, and construction practices.
Possesses a thorough understanding of utility construction methods, engineering standards, project management principles, and contract administration to support the successful planning, execution, and delivery of capital and operational projects.
Strong strategic, financial, and business acumen with demonstrated success managing significant operating and capital budgets.
Working knowledge of regulatory compliance requirements and utility industry safety standards.
Ability to balance safety, reliability, customer service and financial objectives while supporting corporate strategy.
Ability to apply knowledge of company policies and procedures and generally accepted accounting principles as well as all applicable federal, state, and local laws.