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Utilities Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Treeswift Inc

Chief of Staff to CEO

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Since our first pilot with a utility in June 2024, we've grown fast, now working with three of the ... We\'re hiring a Chief of Staff to work directly alongside our CEO as a true extension of their ...

Treeswift Inc

Chief of Staff to CEO

New York, NY · On-site

Since our first pilot with a utility in June 2024, we've grown fast, now working with three of the ... The Position: We're hiring a Chief of Staff to work directly alongside our CEO as a true extension ...

Cityoflakeport

Utilities Superintendent

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Utilities Superintendent Job Type: Full Time - Open to all applicants Utilities Superintendent ... The position also serves as the City's Chief Operator for Water Treatment. Water Distribution and ...

Socket.dev

Chief of Staff to CEO

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Since our first pilot with a utility in June 2024, we've grown fast, now working with three of the ... The Position: We're hiring a Chief of Staff to work directly alongside our CEO as a true extension ...

City of Lakeport

Utilities Superintendent

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$8.2K - $10K/mo

Utilities Superintendent Job Type: Full Time - Open to all applicants Utilities Superintendent ... The position also serves as the City's Chief Operator for Water Treatment. Water Distribution and ...

City of Lakeport

Utilities Superintendent

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$8.2K - $10K/mo

Utilities Superintendent Job Type: Full Time - Open to all applicants Utilities Superintendent ... The position also serves as the City's Chief Operator for Water Treatment. Water Distribution and ...

McKee Utility

Chief Estimator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$127K - $169K/yr

The Chief Estimator - Water / Wastewater Construction is responsible for leading the estimating ... Company Overview McKee Utility Contractors is a family-founded and operated company with over 40 ...

McKee Utility

Chief Estimator

Dallas, TX

$127K - $169K/yr

The Chief Estimator - Water / Wastewater Construction is responsible for leading the estimating ... Company Overview McKee Utility Contractors is a family-founded and operated company with over 40 ...

McKee Utility

Chief Estimator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Overview The Chief Estimator - Water / Wastewater Construction is responsible for leading the ... Company Overview McKee Utility Contractors is a family-founded and operated company with over 40 ...

City of Lakeport

Utilities Superintendent

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

Utilities Superintendent Job Type: Full Time - Open to all applicants Utilities Superintendent ... The position also serves as the City's Chief Operator for Water Treatment. Water Distribution and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsEnergy And Environment JobsUtility JobsPower Plant Manager JobsUtilities Chief Jobs

Utilities Chief information

See salary details

$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do utilities chief jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for utilities chief in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a utilities chief do?

A Utilities Chief is responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and management of public utilities such as water, electricity, gas, or wastewater systems within a city, facility, or organization. They ensure all utility services run efficiently and comply with safety and regulatory standards. The Utilities Chief supervises staff, manages budgets, coordinates repairs and upgrades, and responds to emergencies or outages. Their role is essential in providing reliable utility services to the community or organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utilities chief, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utilities Chief, you need in-depth knowledge of utility operations, regulatory compliance, and management principles, often backed by a degree in engineering or a related field and extensive industry experience. Familiarity with SCADA systems, asset management software, and relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help in effectively managing teams and coordinating with stakeholders. These skills are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable utility services while meeting regulatory and organizational goals.

What are some common challenges faced by a utilities chief, and how can they be effectively managed?

A Utilities Chief often faces challenges such as coordinating large multidisciplinary teams, ensuring regulatory compliance, and responding to unexpected service disruptions. Managing these challenges requires strong communication and leadership skills, as well as the ability to develop and enforce robust contingency plans. Building strong relationships with both internal staff and external agencies is also critical for navigating emergencies and maintaining high service standards. Staying current with evolving technologies and regulatory changes can help anticipate issues and implement proactive solutions.

What is the difference between Utilities Chief vs Utility Manager?

AspectUtilities ChiefUtility Manager
CredentialsOften requires engineering or technical certifications, leadership experienceTypically requires a degree in engineering, business, or related field, with management experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple departments, strategic planning, high-level decision makingManages daily operations, supervises staff, ensures service delivery
Industry UsageUsed in large utility companies, government agenciesCommon in municipal, private, and public utility sectors

The Utilities Chief generally holds a higher-level, strategic role overseeing multiple departments and making executive decisions, while the Utility Manager focuses on daily operations and staff management. Both roles require relevant technical knowledge and industry experience, but the Utilities Chief operates at a broader, more strategic level.

More about Utilities Chief jobs

What are popular job titles related to Utilities Chief jobs?

For Utilities Chief jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Utilities Chief job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Chief Estimator - Utilities and Infrastructure

Houston, TX • On-site

Mainframe Solutions
See more jobs at Mainframe Solutionsexternal

$140K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Mainframe Solutions is recruiting a Chief Estimator to lead preconstruction and estimating efforts for a growing civil contractor focused on underground utilities, wastewater infrastructure, and municipal construction projects throughout the Houston area.
This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the complete estimating process, from opportunity evaluation through final proposal submission. The successful candidate will play a critical role in project selection, pricing strategy, risk assessment, and bid execution while helping drive profitable growth across a strong portfolio of public infrastructure work.
This opportunity is ideal for an experienced estimating professional with a deep background in underground utilities, wastewater treatment facilities, and municipal infrastructure projects who is ready to lead both strategy and team performance.
Project Focus
  • Underground utility construction including water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage systems
  • Wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) projects
  • Municipal and public works infrastructure
  • Site development and utility installation
  • Heavy civil construction projects
Role Overview
As Chief Estimator, you will lead the pursuit and pricing of complex infrastructure projects while ensuring all estimates are accurate, competitive, and aligned with company objectives. You will work closely with executive leadership, operations teams, project managers, subcontractors, and clients to develop winning bid strategies and support successful project execution.
In addition to managing active pursuits, you will provide leadership and mentorship to the estimating team, helping establish standards, improve processes, and maintain consistency across all submissions.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the complete estimating lifecycle for underground utility, infrastructure, and municipal projects.
  • Prepare and review detailed estimates covering labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs.
  • Evaluate project risks, constructability considerations, and pricing strategies to support informed bid decisions.
  • Analyze bid documents, specifications, utility profiles, grading plans, and project requirements.
  • Review and level subcontractor and vendor quotations to ensure complete scope coverage.
  • Lead final estimate reviews and bid strategy meetings with executive leadership.
  • Support transition from estimating to operations by partnering with Project Managers during project handoff and buyout.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and clients.
  • Monitor market conditions, material pricing trends, and labor costs to maintain competitive bidding practices.
Leadership Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of estimators.
  • Establish estimating procedures, standards, and best practices.
  • Promote consistency, accuracy, and accountability across all bid submissions.
  • Support team growth through coaching, training, and performance development.
  • Assist with estimating workload planning and resource allocation across multiple pursuits.
Qualifications
  • Extensive experience in heavy civil, underground utility, or infrastructure estimating.
  • Strong background in wastewater treatment, municipal utilities, and public works construction.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Exceptional analytical, cost evaluation, and strategic planning skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing or mentoring estimating teams.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with operations, executive leadership, subcontractors, and clients.
Technical Expertise
  • Proficiency with industry-standard estimating software and digital takeoff platforms.
  • Ability to interpret civil drawings, utility profiles, grading plans, and municipal specifications.
  • Strong knowledge of underground utility construction methods and sequencing.
  • Understanding of OSHA trench safety requirements and utility installation regulations.
  • Experience evaluating project risks related to soil conditions, existing utilities, permitting, and constructability.
  • Proven negotiating skills with subcontractors and suppliers to secure competitive pricing.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Competitive compensation package based on experience.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
  • 401(k) plan.
  • Life Insurance.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA).
  • Paid Time Off.
Why Join This Opportunity?
This role offers a unique opportunity to influence project selection, pricing strategy, and overall company success. You will be at the forefront of major infrastructure pursuits within one of the most active construction markets in Texas, working alongside an experienced leadership team with a strong backlog of municipal and utility work.
For an estimating leader looking to make a significant impact while helping shape the future growth of an organization, this is an outstanding opportunity.
Apply Today
Apply directly through Mainframe Solutions or contact us for a confidential discussion about the opportunity.
Mainframe Solutions
info@mainframesolutions.net
832-225-8398
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening in accordance with company policy and applicable laws. Failure to meet these requirements may result in withdrawal of the offer.

Apply