Project Manager Operations Jobs in Fergus Falls, MN

Project Manager I or II

Location: Fergus Falls, MN

Salary Grade 12 or 14

Position Summary

Otter Tail Power Company is seeking a Project Manager I or II to lead the development and execution of generation-related projects. This role is responsible for managing project scope, schedule, cost, and risk across the full project lifecycle—from development through construction and closeout—while ensuring safety, compliance, and stakeholder alignment.

This position will report to Manager Project Management I, Development Engineering Construction.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Project Execution:
  Manage all phases of the project lifecycle, including development, engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and turnover to operations.
• Safety Leadership:
  Promote and enforce a strong safety culture by ensuring safety plans, procedures, and practices are implemented and followed by all internal teams and contractors.
• Schedule & Resource Management:
  Develop and maintain project schedules, coordinate workforce requirements, and proactively manage risks impacting timelines.
• Financial Oversight:
  Prepare and manage project budgets and forecasts, track variances, and collaborate with finance and regulatory teams to ensure cost control and recovery.
• Risk Management:
  Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks through development and maintenance of a risk register and proactive planning.
• Contract & Vendor Management:
  Oversee procurement processes, manage contracts, and coordinate consultants, contractors, and external vendors.
• Permitting & Stakeholder Coordination:
  Collaborate with landowners, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders to support permitting, environmental compliance, and public engagement efforts.
• Communication & Reporting:
  Provide timely and accurate project updates, facilitate meetings, and maintain strong communication across all stakeholders.
• Leadership & Collaboration:
  Foster a positive team environment, coordinate cross-functional teams, and lead conflict resolution when needed.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, project management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Project Manager I: ~2+ years of project management or related experience.
• Project Manager II: ~5+ years of project management experience, including managing multiple or complex projects.
• Experience in energy, utilities, or infrastructure projects preferred.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong understanding of project management principles (scope, schedule, cost, risk).
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, contract management, and scheduling.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tools.

Leadership & Competencies:

• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills across all levels.
• Proven ability to lead teams, influence outcomes, and resolve complex issues.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to perform in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel within the service territory as needed.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

What We Offer

We believe employment is a partnership and we expect excellence from our talented employees. To support our employees and help drive their career experience and goals.

• Competitive wage & benefit package.

• The expected offer for base compensation for this role is $84,000 - $140,000 annually. The actual compensation within the compensation range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.
• Incentive plans
• Employee Stock Ownership options
• Retirement Savings Fund with employer match
• Health, disability and life insurance plan options

• Our employees are provided training and development opportunities each year, including education reimbursement. This includes safety – one of our values and key to our success technical, compliance and developmental training.
• Career development is critical to our long-term success. Otter Tail Power employees have opportunities to participate in various leadership development programs, gain access to an a la carte online leadership course catalog, receive mentorship from current leaders and more!
• Mental health support from the experts at SupportLinc as well as competitive vacation and sick leave to ensure employees are at their best when they’re working.

To apply, visit our careers page at www.otpco.com.  Applications accepted until filled.

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship at this time.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.