Utility Manager Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

R-2 Contractors is seeking an accomplished and visionary Utility-Scale Trenching Division Manager to lead and grow our Trenching Division. This executive-level leadership role is responsible for building a high-performing organization that consistently delivers safe, productive, and high-quality trenching and underground conduit installation projects across the United States.

Working in partnership with the Operations Manager and executive leadership, the Division Manager will oversee all aspects of trenching operations, including production trenching, single-pass mechanical laying, cable lay box operations, underground conduit installation, backfilling, equipment utilization, and operational execution. This individual will be responsible for developing people, improving operational performance, strengthening customer relationships, and driving long-term division growth.

Success in this role is measured not only by operational excellence, but by the ability to build exceptional leaders, earn the confidence of customers, and create a Trenching Division that reflects the R-2 standard of excellence.

• Approximately 25% travel each month to project sites nationwide is required
• Additional travel may be required to support critical project meetings, customer meetings, leadership meetings, safety initiatives, quality audits, compliance activities, or other business needs

Salary: $180k - $250k DOE

• Provide strategic leadership for all trenching operations across multiple utility-scale construction projects
• Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Superintendents, Foremen, Equipment Operators, and field leaders
• Lead all aspects of high-production trenching and underground conduit installation, including single-pass mechanical laying, cable lay box operations, bedding placement, warning mesh installation, backfilling, and restoration
• Ensure manpower, trenching equipment, materials, subcontractors, and resources are properly planned and coordinated to support project execution
• Coordinate trenching resources, support equipment, production sequencing, and underground installation activities to maximize efficiency
• Ensure trenches and conduit installations are completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with project specifications
• Partner closely with Project Managers, Operations Leadership, Estimating, and executive leadership to ensure successful project delivery
• Drive operational consistency through planning, communication, accountability, and execution
• Monitor production, productivity, equipment utilization, quality, and overall operational performance
• Support project planning, scheduling, forecasting, budgeting, and resource management
• Develop future leaders through coaching, mentorship, performance management, and succession planning
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, General Contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and project stakeholders
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, safety, quality, and operational performance throughout the division
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives while reinforcing company processes and best practices
• Promote a culture where safety is always the highest priority
• Lead by example while living and reinforcing the R-2 Core Values every day

• Minimum 10 years of heavy civil or underground utility construction experience, including utility-scale power, renewable energy, transmission, substation, or large underground infrastructure projects
• Proven experience leading multiple trenching crews, Superintendents, and large-scale underground utility construction operations
• Strong knowledge of high-production trenching, single-pass mechanical laying, underground conduit installation, trench safety, bedding placement, warning mesh installation, backfilling, and restoration practices
• Demonstrated experience operating and managing Tesmec trenchers, Vermeer trenchers, rock saws, cable lay box systems, and associated support equipment
• Working knowledge of GPS grade control, trench alignment, production planning, operational scheduling, and resource allocation
• Strong financial and business acumen with experience managing operational budgets and project performance
• Proven ability to build, lead, and develop high-performing teams
• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to build strong working relationships with customers, project teams, and executive leadership
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, accountability, operational excellence, and quality workmanship
• Ability to travel as required to support projects, customers, and company operations
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Ability to successfully complete pre-employment drug screening and background check

• Builds a division where employees are engaged, developed, and proud to work
• Consistently delivers safe, productive, and high-quality trenching and underground conduit installation
• Develops strong Superintendents, Foremen, Equipment Operators, and future leaders
• Earns the trust and confidence of customers through reliable execution and exceptional performance
• Successfully leads high-production single-pass mechanical laying operations that improve safety, quality, and productivity
• Plans proactively, communicates effectively, and resolves challenges before they impact production
• Continuously strengthens the division through improved people, systems, processes, and operational performance Our Leadership Philosophy

  At R-2 Contractors, technical expertise may open the door-but leadership is defined by how you develop people, build teams, and live our Core Values.

  Our leaders are expected to:
  • Lead with integrity, humility, professionalism, and accountability
  • Put the safety and success of their people first
  • Coach, mentor, and develop future leaders
  • Build trust through consistent execution and open communication
  • Foster teamwork while empowering others to make decisions and grow
  • Hold themselves and others accountable to the highest standards
  • Protect and strengthen the culture that makes R-2 different
  • Leave the division stronger than they found it
  The R-2 Core Values PRIDE -

  We take ownership of our work, our people, our equipment, and our reputation. Every project reflects the pride we have in our craft.

  • Do What's Right
  • Put Your Name On It
  • Never Accept Mediocrity
  • I Am R-2
  • Grow or Die
  GRIT -

  We embrace challenges, solve problems, overcome adversity, and never allow obstacles to define our success.

  • Dig Deep and Grind It Out
  • Give It Your All
  • Do What It Takes
  • Dedication
  OWN IT! -

  We don't make excuses or point fingers. We own the outcome, communicate early, solve problems, and continually improve ourselves and our teams.

  • Do What You Say
  • Be Accountable
  • If You Ain't First, You're Last
  • Accept Criticism
  • Own Your Position
  Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (company funded plans available for the entire family)
  • 401(k) with 3% company match
  • 5-Year Employment Appreciation Bonus

  R-2 Contractors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.