Operations Manager

Sioux Valley Energy is looking for a dedicated Operations Manager to lead and coordinate the construction, operation, and maintenance of the Cooperative’s electric distribution facilities within the assigned service area. This position is responsible for ensuring distribution facilities are operated and maintained safely, efficiently, and in accordance with established standards, applicable regulations, and Cooperative policies.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Operations Manager provides leadership and direction to Journey Lineworkers, Apprentice Lineworkers, and Lead Journey Lineworkers. The position plays a key role in coordinating personnel, equipment, materials, contractors, and work plans to achieve operational goals while maintaining a strong focus on safety, reliability, power quality, productivity, and member service.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in electric utility operations and a strong understanding of distribution systems, safe work practices, and applicable industry standards. Strong leadership, communication, project management, and problem-solving skills are essential. The successful candidate will be able to effectively manage multiple priorities, develop and coordinate work plans, monitor budgets and performance, and build positive working relationships with employees, members, contractors, and other Cooperative personnel.

 EDUCATION: A technical school degree in powerline work or a related field, plus extensive specialized training in electric utility operational topics, is strongly preferred. A four-year Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, business, or a related field is preferred.

 EXPERIENCE: Five years of experience in power systems operations and/or engineering required.

 JOB KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of distribution system operations, system layout, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), and safe working practices required. Must understand and be able to use computer applications such as spreadsheet, word processing, and database applications. Must be knowledgeable about transportation and power-operated equipment applications and regulations.

 ABILITIES AND SKILLS: Must be skilled at managing projects and people. Must possess excellent communication and good human relations skills. Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and effectively prioritize work is required. Must be able to analyze data and reports, conduct research, coordinate people and resources, direct and supervise employees, and evaluate performance. Skills in developing plans, procedures, and goals are required. Must be able to present information to others and work effectively under stress.

 WORKING CONDITIONS: Outdoor work is required in a variety of weather conditions in addition to normal office working conditions. Occasional work outside of normal work hours will be required.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Medium work requiring exertion of up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force more frequently. Lifting and carrying of 10 to 50 pounds occasionally. Job requires standing, crawling, climbing, bending, pulling, and reaching some of the time. Work includes inside desk work with some outside work. Minimal exposure to varying temperature conditions, including cold below 32 degrees and heat above 100 degrees. Includes exposure to mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, burns, confined spaces, and operating machinery. Some exposure to odors, dust, and dirt. Safety equipment required. Must be able to communicate effectively with individuals. Driver’s license required. Must be able to read, write, and perform arithmetic.

 REPORTING LOCATION: Brandon Service Center will be the primary reporting location. Successful candidate must live within the footprint of the Sioux Valley Energy service territory, with location approved by the VP of Human Resources and Member Services and VP of Engineering and Operations.

This position is also being posted externally through September 14, 2026. Here is the link to the full job description.