The Utilities Operations Manager coordinates and manages the operation of the Utilities Team in the Public Works Department. Work involves comprehensive planning for utilities and managing water quality programs for the City of Mercer Island.
Position is primarily focused on managing, coaching, and developing other people. Position requires extensive depth of expertise and knowledge in specialized functions or business areas that can be used to implement policies and procedures as well as determining efficient and innovative ways to accomplish the organization’s business strategies.
Essential Job Functions
The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility.
- Leads and facilitates the Utilities Team; sets clear goals, direction, and annual work plan
- Performs comprehensive planning for utilities, including participating in rate studies
- Participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the Department
- Manages complex utility infrastructure and facilities within the water distribution and wastewater systems
- Responds to emerging priorities set by the City Manager or designee, Utility Board, and City Council
- Creates, implements, and ensures adherence to standard operating and safety procedures and manuals. Identifies improvements and implements new practices and procedures as needed.
- Involves team members in development of public work contracts; administers new and existing contracts
- Provides supervision in the field; sets and adheres to clear safety standards
- Manages administrative details; prepares reports and presentations; prepares budget with involvement of team members
- Coordinates construction of Capital Improvement Projects with Engineering Team
- Communicates with Community Planning and Development Department on issues related to utilities
- Participates in the development and administration of the departmental budget; approves the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; approves expenditures and implements budgetary adjustments as appropriate and necessary
- Represents the City in regional forums, such as the Seattle Public Utilities Operating Board, as a backup to the Public Works Director
- Responds to inquiries, questions, and comments from the general public per established standards and protocols; responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive citizen inquiries and complaints
- Maintains strict confidentiality of restricted information
- Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and best practices
- Ensures adherence to all established City policies, procedures, and protocols
- May be required to attend evening and/or weekend meetings and events based on organizational responsibilities and/or requirements
- When required, responds to Emergency Operations Center to support the City’s response during an emergency and fulfills requested Incident Command System (ICS) role
- Performs other job functions as assigned
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Reviews and evaluates work methods and procedures and meets with management staff to identify and resolve problems
- Assesses and monitors workload; identifies opportunities for improvement and implements changes
- Selects, trains, motivates, and evaluates personnel; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; makes recommendations regarding discipline and termination
The Utility Operations Manager position is an on-island, in-person role and is not eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. The position requires a consistent on-island presence to manage and supervise the utility team, whose members report to Mercer Island daily, and to provide direct oversight and monitoring of the City's water system and utility operations. While occasional work-from-home flexibility may be available when operational needs permit, it is not a regular or guaranteed arrangement. The successful candidate must be able to fulfill the day-to-day responsibilities of the position while physically present on the island.
