Director of Operations & Maintenance

Position Summary: The Director of Operations and Maintenance is a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Executive VP and General Manager. This position is responsible for the strategic direction, engineering alignment, safe operation, and reliable maintenance of the cooperative’s electric distribution system. The successful candidate will lead, mentor, and develop a dedicated team of line crews, supervisors, and technical staff to ensure operational excellence and strict safety compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Safety: Cultivate a rigorous culture of safety that achieves zero-incident goals; oversee safety training, field audits, and compliance with NRECA, OSHA, and state regulatory standards.
• Grid Operations: Direct the construction, maintenance, and emergency restoration of all overhead and underground distribution infrastructure, substations, and right-of-way management.
• Workforce Management: Supervise, schedule, and evaluate line superintendents, crew foremen, and operations personnel, fostering a collaborative, high-performance team environment.
• System Resiliency: Partner with the engineering department to execute the cooperative's Work Plan, integrating smart grid technologies, distribution automation, and preventative maintenance schedules.
• Budgeting & Resources: Develop and manage the annual Operations and Maintenance budget; work closely with the Director of Administration and Finance to coordinate inventory requirements, warehouse logistics, and material specifications for capital equipment procurement.
• Community & Member Relations: Ensure high-quality service reliability and prompt, professional resolution of member inquiries or operational issues.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in electric utility operations, with a deep background in the field. Direct experience as a Line Foreman, Operations Supervisor, or Crew Leader is highly preferred and considered a significant plus. A proven track record of managing crew safety, logistics, and job site accountability is strongly valued.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field preferred; or equivalent combination of extensive field leadership and utility management credentials.
• Driver’s License: Applicant must possess a valid Illinois driver’s license.
• Technical Skills: Deep familiarity with National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), GIS mapping, and outage management systems (OMS).
• Core Competencies: Strong command leadership and exceptional interpersonal skills; demonstrated ability to establish clear operational accountability, deliver constructive feedback, and resolve personnel conflicts directly and professionally; ability to lead crews and direct mutual aid effectively during high-stress storm restoration events.

What We Offer:

• Salary Range: $124,800 – $150,000 per year (commensurate with experience and qualifications)
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including NRECA retirement/pension plans, 401k match, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Time Off: Generous paid time off, sick leave, and several holidays.
• Environment: A stable, community-focused, and supportive professional work environment.

Resume, three professional references and three personal references should be submitted to Stephanie Theis by June 26, 2026, by 4 p.m.