Job Description

Overview

The City of Chelsea is looking for a Utilities Director to join our executive team and make a meaningful impact on our community!

• As Utilities Director you will be responsible for the administration, management, and strategic leadership of all municipal utility and public works operations. This includes ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION; WATER and WASTEWATER TREATMENT and DISTRIBUTION; STORMWATER MANAGEMENT; SOLID WASTE; and PUBLIC WORKS.
• This position is a critical member of the City’s executive team and plays a significant role in strategic planning and city-wide policy development.

UTILITY AND PUBLIC WORKS LEADERSHIP

Oversee the operations of electric distribution, water treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant, solid waste, stormwater system, and public works department.

Direct the activities of superintendents, engineers, operations, and contractors.

Ensure compliance with regulatory agencies (e.g., EGLE, EPA, OSHA) and meet all permitting requirements.

Manage SCADA systems to ensure optimal functionality of utilities infrastructure.

Promote the use of data analytics, GIS systems, and asset management tools to inform maintenance prioritization, utility forecasting, and long-term planning.

Collaborate in the development of emergency preparedness plans, continuity of operations protocols, and disaster recovery efforts for critical utility infrastructure.

Collaborates with city engineering consultants on infrastructure design and inspections

Oversee the preparation and administration of contracts and grants related to electric distribution, utilities and public works.

Incorporate sustainable practices and climate-resilient design into electric, utility and public works planning, including energy-efficient infrastructure, low-impact development (LID), and stormwater reuse strategies.

ENGINEERING AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Serve as a technical advisor to the City Manager on environmental, electrical, engineering, and utility-related issues.

Provide input on the design of infrastructure projects and assist with review of construction plans and site designs.

FINANCIAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE OVERSIGHT

Work with superintendents to develop and monitor departmental budgets.

Assist in rate structure analysis.

STAFF SUPERVISION AND DEVELOPMENT

Supervise and mentor all assigned departmental personnel; conduct performance evaluations, develop training plans, and address performance management.

Ensure that safety protocols are established and followed; promote a culture of safety throughout the department.

PUBLIC RELATIONS AND INTERDEPARTMENTAL COLLABORATION

Respond to public concerns and utility service requests.

Provide staff support and attend meetings as needed.

Develop and monitor utility performance metrics and citizen satisfaction data; implement outreach strategies to educate residents on utility operations and conservation practices.

• EDUCATION : Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, public administration, business administration, utility management, water resource management, electrical, mechanical, or a related field (preferred). Equivalent experience is required if the candidate does not possess a related degree.
• EXPERIENCE : 5-7 years of progressive experience in the field of public works, utilities management, and/or civil infrastructure within a municipal setting.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a supervisory or management role overseeing employees, budgets, and operational planning.
• Demonstrated success in regulatory compliance management (e.g. EGLE, EPA, (MIOSHA), as well as project management including infrastructure development, contractor oversight, and capital improvement planning.
• LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS : Wastewater Operator’s License, Water Distribution License, Certified Stormwater Operator, or Professional Engineer License are a plus, however not required. Must be able to safely operate a motor vehicle and hold a valid Michigan driver’s license.

Résumé and cover letter highlighting your qualifications and interest to:

humanresources@city-chelsea.org or by mail

Attn: Human Resources
City of Chelsea
305 S. Main St. Ste. 100
Chelsea, MI 48118

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $120,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

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