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Utility Operations Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

This position is not a project management or project controls role . Instead, the Power Controls ... Utility operations and control center personnel * Review drawings and specifications to ensure ...

This position is not a project management or project controls role . Instead, the Power Controls ... Utility operations and control center personnel * Review drawings and specifications to ensure ...

Client Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

You will own the full sales lifecycle, manage a portfolio of Electric and Gas utility accounts, and collaborate across teams to help customers modernize infrastructure, improve operational efficiency ...

Client Executive

Chicago, IL · Remote

$78K - $107K/yr

You will own the full sales lifecycle, manage a portfolio of Electric and Gas utility accounts, and collaborate across teams to help customers modernize infrastructure, improve operational efficiency ...

Client Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$78K - $107K/yr

You will own the full sales lifecycle, manage a portfolio of Electric and Gas utility accounts, and collaborate across teams to help customers modernize infrastructure, improve operational efficiency ...

The Global Manager of Utilities provides enterprise leadership for the strategy, standards ... Lead enterprise utility strategy, standards, and governance across global operations for ...

Utilities Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

... utility equipment systems and operations in this world class manufacturing campus are met. You must be able to improve efficiencies, managing all new projects, recommending best practices, and ...

... utility equipment systems and operations in this world class manufacturing campus are met. You must be able to improve efficiencies, managing all new projects, recommending best practices, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Utility Operations Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$61.5K

$114.8K

How much do utility operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for utility operations manager in Illinois is $61,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $75,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges utility operations managers face in coordinating maintenance and emergency response teams?

Utility Operations Managers often juggle the complexities of scheduling planned maintenance while ensuring teams are prepared for unexpected outages or emergencies. Balancing these priorities requires strong communication and adaptability, as resources may need to be redirected quickly when issues arise. Additionally, they must coordinate with other departments, such as engineering and customer service, to minimize service disruptions and maintain compliance with safety regulations. Successfully managing these challenges is key to ensuring reliable utility services and efficient team performance.

What does a utility operations manager do?

A Utility Operations Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of utility services such as water, electricity, or gas. Their responsibilities typically include managing staff, ensuring compliance with regulations, maintaining infrastructure, optimizing efficiency, and responding to emergencies or service disruptions. They play a key role in planning, budgeting, and implementing operational improvements. Utility Operations Managers also coordinate with other departments and external agencies to ensure reliable service delivery and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Utility Operations Manager vs Utility Supervisor?

AspectUtility Operations ManagerUtility Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple departments, manages budgets, develops strategies, and ensures compliance across utility operations.Supervises daily work of utility staff, ensures safety, and manages operational tasks on a shift or team basis.
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or related field; certifications like CWE or OSHA are common.Often requires a high school diploma or associate degree; relevant certifications may include safety or technical training.
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, field sites, and operational facilities; involves strategic planning and oversight.Primarily on-site in utility plants or field locations; focuses on operational supervision.

While both roles are vital in utility companies, the Utility Operations Manager focuses on strategic oversight and management, whereas the Utility Supervisor handles daily operational supervision. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job opportunity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility operations manager?

To thrive as a Utility Operations Manager, you need strong leadership skills, a solid understanding of utility operations, regulatory compliance, and a relevant degree such as engineering or business management. Familiarity with SCADA systems, asset management software, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and team management skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient utility operations and effective coordination across teams and regulatory bodies.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operations Manager jobs in Illinois? For Utility Operations Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Operations Manager jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Operations Manager jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Utility Operations Manager jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Utility Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Utility Operations Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,491 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Hansoninc

Rockford, IL

$80K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Hanson Values

Integrity | Commitment | Quality | Relationships | Innovation

If you're looking for a firm that encourages innovative thinking and challenges you every day, with an opportunity to learn and advance, a career at Hanson is right for you. The belief in sustainability within our company's practices creates a focus on client success and partnerships that are important to our communities and our environment.

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry)
Position Type: Full-Time
Industry Focus: Power Delivery / Transmission & Distribution / Substations / SCADA & CommunicationsAbout the Role

Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking a Power Controls Engineer to support the design, implementation, and integration of control systems and communication networks for electric power infrastructure projects.

This position is not a project management or project controls role. Instead, the Power Controls Engineer provides specialized technical expertise that complements substation, transmission, and distribution engineering teams. The role focuses on communication and control interfaces among substations, transmission systems, utilities, and control centers, including SCADA systems, protective-relaying communications, and fiberoptic networks.

The Power Controls Engineer works closely with substation engineers, transmission engineers, civil engineers, structural engineers, and utility clients to ensure reliable, secure, and coordinated operation of power system control and monitoring infrastructure.

Key ResponsibilitiesPower System Controls & Communications
  • Design and support SCADA, substation automation, and power system communication architectures.

  • Develop control and monitoring schemes that support coordination between substations, transmission systems, and operations centers.

  • Support integration of field devices, including:

    • IEDs (Intelligent Electronic Devices)

    • RTUs and PLCs

    • Protective relays

  • Assist with commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting control and communication systems.

SCADA & Network Integration
  • Support SCADA point lists, I/O mapping, control logic, and alarm philosophies.

  • Coordinate communication protocols such as:

    • DNP3

    • IEC 61850

    • Modbus

  • Participate in network design involving:

    • Fiberoptic communication systems

    • Ethernet and IP-based networks

    • Redundant communication paths and cybersecurity considerations

  • Coordinate with utilities and IT/OT stakeholders on control system interfaces and data exchange.

Collaboration with Engineering Teams
  • Work in addition to (and in coordination with) substation engineers-not as a replacement, proposing technical depth in controls and communications.

  • Coordinate with:

    • Substation, transmission, and distribution engineers

    • Civil, structural, and electrical engineering teams

    • Utility operations and control center personnel

  • Review drawings and specifications to ensure proper integration of controls, communications, and protection systems.

Design Documentation & Technical Support
  • Prepare and review technical deliverables, including:

    • Control schematics and wiring diagrams

    • Communication onelines and network diagrams

    • SCADA architecture drawings

    • Technical specifications and standards

  • Support responses to technical questions during design, construction, and commissioning.

  • Assist with upgrades, expansions, and modernization of existing control and communication systems.

Power Industry Applications

Support a variety of power delivery projects, including:

  • Transmission and substation control systems

  • Utility SCADA and EMS/DMS interfaces

  • Grid modernization and automation initiatives

  • Integration of new substations or transmission assets into existing control networks

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field.

  • Minimum 5-10 years of experience in power system controls, substation automation, or SCADA within the power or utility industry.

  • Experience working with:

    • Substation or transmission projects

    • Power system communication and control systems

  • Working knowledge of SCADA systems, protective relaying communications, and utility operational requirements.

  • Ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or progress toward licensure.

  • Experience with:

    • InvestorOwned Utilities (IOUs)

    • Public power agencies or electric cooperatives

  • Familiarity with:

    • IEC 61850 architectures

    • Fiberoptic network design and troubleshooting

    • Substation automation systems

  • Experience supporting commissioning, testing, or system cutovers.

  • Understanding of cybersecurity considerations for utility control systems.

Soft Skills & Competencies
  • Strong technical problemsolving skills

  • Clear written and verbal communication

  • Ability to work independently while coordinating closely with others

  • Detailoriented approach to technical design and documentation

  • Collaborative, solutionsfocused mindset

Working at Hanson
  • Employeeowned firm offering longterm stability and career growth

  • Collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment

  • Opportunities to work with power utilities across multiple regions

  • Occasional travel to support projects or client coordination

  • Valid driver's license required

Salary range: $105,000 - $160,000

Benefits

Our focus on people means we offer a generous benefits program to help you create a solid foundation for health and security throughout your career, including:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Performance bonuses
  • 401(k) with matching contribution
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • Comprehensive health & well-being plans
  • Financial wellness plans
  • Work-life balance programs

Want to know more? Visitour benefits pagefor all the details.

Culture

We understand that selecting a job is about more than the day-to-day tasks. It's important to feel like you belong and safe to grow and progress along your career path. You'll find that at Hanson. We have an inclusive, diverse workforce awaiting to connect with you and numerous opportunities to cultivate your career, including:

  • Monthly educational webinars
  • Leadership training
  • Lunch & learn development sessions
  • 24/7 access to thousands of skill-building courses
  • Mentorship opportunities
  • Award-winning internship program
  • Employee recognition
  • And so much more!

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EEO - EMPLOYER

We do not accept unsolicited resumesfrom recruiters or agencies/staffing firms.Resumesare only accepted from recruiters and agency/staffing firms if a signed agreement is in place at the inception of the recruiting effort and authorized for a specified position.