Utility Operations Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Description Power up your career with Moreno Valley Utility. We are looking for an Operations Manager to oversee essential utility systems, optimize field operations, develop operational standards and programs for our growing utility and convert complex challenges into practical, reliable solutions. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, prioritize safety and efficiency, have experience leading electric utility operations team(s) and take pride in improving processes daily, this role is for you.

The role offers flexible scheduling options, including a 9/80 or 4/10 work week. DEADLINE TO APPLY Applications are due Friday, July 3, 2026, by 5:00 PM PST. This recruitment may close at any time without notice.

THE OPPORTUNITY As the Operations Manager, you will lead the day-to-day field operations that keep our electric distribution system and substations safe, reliable, and efficient. This leadership role oversees construction, inspection, and maintenance activities, ensuring compliance with all regulatory and safety standards, including CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission) General Orders and NERC (North American Electric Reliability Corporation) requirements. Reporting to the Electric Utility Assistant Manager, you will manage and mentor field crews, inspectors, technicians, and contractors, while coordinating closely with engineering and administrative teams to align operations with capital projects and service goals.

You will develop and implement work plans, enforce safety protocols, develop line crew training programs and lead emergency response efforts during outages and natural disasters. The Operations Manager also plays a key role in resource management, budgeting, and process improvement. They are continuously seeking innovative solutions to enhance reliability and operational efficiency.

JOB DESCRIPTION Click here to access the complete classification description, including the experience, education, and physical and mental requirements for this job. IDEAL CANDIDATE The City of Moreno Valley is seeking a results-driven, people-centered operations leader with deep experience in electric utility field services and construction. The ideal candidate is a confident manager who balances technical expertise, operational excellence, and strong leadership, and who takes pride in delivering safe, reliable service to the community.

This individual thrives in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment and is comfortable making critical decisions during routine operations and emergency response situations. Proven Utility Operations Leadership Extensive experience in electric utility field operations, including constructing, maintaining, repairing, and inspecting electrical distribution underground and overhead power lines, transformers, switches, and other electric utility systems. Demonstrated success managing complex operations, schedules, budgets, contracts, and regulatory compliance Strong understanding of safety standards, electrical codes, and best practices in electric utility operation Experience in training electric utility field staff in construction of underground and overhead utility lines, transformers, switches, and other electric utility equipment.

People-Focused Leader Skilled at leading, mentoring, and developing supervisors and field staff Builds trust, accountability, and teamwork across diverse crews and stakeholders Approaches leadership with a calm, respectful, and solution-oriented mindset Safety & Compliance Champion Committed to maintaining a culture of safety and risk awareness Experienced in enforcing safety policies, conducting training, and responding to incidents or emergencies Knowledgeable in regulatory requirements affecting municipal electric utilities Strategic & Operational Thinker Able to plan, prioritize, and execute short- and long-term operational goals Uses data, performance metrics, and field insight to improve efficiency and service delivery Comfortable coordinating with internal departments, contractors, and external agencies Strong Communicator Clearly communicates expectations, policies, and technical information to staff and leadership Prepares reports, recommendations, and presentations for executive leadership and City officials Represents the utility professionally with customers, regulators, and partners Preferred Background Significant experience in electric utility distribution construction and maintenance or municipal utility operations Prior supervisory or management experience in a field services or operations environment Education or training in electrical engineering, electrical technology, computer science, industrial automation, or a related field (or equivalent experience) MINIMUM AND DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field; AND A minimum of five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in electric utility field operations, including construction, inspection, and maintenance, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory or management role. Experience working in a public agency or municipal utility is highly desirable. Education and experience may be supplemented with completion of a high-voltage electrical lineworker apprenticeship program and possession of Journeyman Lineman status.

Required Licenses and Certifications: Valid California driver's license and the ability to maintain insurance under the City's vehicle insurance policy. WHO WE ARE The City of Moreno Valley prides itself on delivering quality service to our residents and businesses efficiently and effectively through Collaboration, Innovation, Customer Service, and Human-Centric Design. Strategically located in Southern California's Inland Empire, Moreno Valley is the second-largest city in Riverside County and is close to major hubs such as Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.

This spacious, thriving, and diverse City has a population of over 200,000 residents and offers a variety of business opportunities. For additional information regarding the City, please click here. The Moreno Valley Electric Utility provides safe, reliable, and economical public electric service with a focus on innovative customer solutions, infrastructure enhancement, community development, and environmentally responsible resource management.

THE SELECTION PROCESS Applicants possessing the MOST DESIRABLE qualifications at each level, based on a screening of required application materials, including the completed Supplemental Questionnaire, will be invited to continue in the selection process. The City of Moreno Valley prioritizes and is committed to continuously providing a workplace where equal employment opportunity is afforded to all people. Recruitment Process: Human Resources (HR) reviews all application materials to determine whether candidates meet the established minimum and preferred qualifications after the position closes.

Those who qualify will be advanced to the next stage of the recruitment process. All applicants will receive email notifications regarding their status. Application Screening Applications and supplemental materials will be reviewed to identify candidates whose qualifications best align with the position's essential requirements.

Only those applicants who meet the criteria outlined in the job bulletin will advance to the next phase of the selection process. Video Appraisal Interview Applicants may complete a self-guided video interview by recording responses to a series of structured questions. These questions are designed to assess each candidate's qualifications and suitability for the position.

There is no live interviewer or proctor; candidates will record their answers independently and submit the videos for evaluation. Technical Interview: Selected applicants will be invited to participate in a structured technical interview designed to evaluate job-related knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in key competencies required for the position. Candidates will respond to a series of standardized questions, and their performance will be assessed using predetermined evaluation criteria to ensure a fair and consistent appraisal process.

Based on the Department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedure. Eligible List: Once the appraisal is complete, HR will establish an eligible list of candidates.

Candidates placed on the eligible list may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present and future vacancies. DISCLAIMERS The City of Moreno Valley is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The City of Moreno Valley prioritizes and is committed to continuously providing a workplace where equal employment opportunity is afforded to all people.

As part of this commitment, the City of Moreno Valley will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodations are needed to participate in the interview process, please contact Human Resources at hr@moval.org or (951) 413-3045.