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Utility Operations Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Experience: • 5+ years of experience in fulfillment, field operations, or project management • At least 3 years in a leadership role within the telecom, utility, or construction sectors • ...

Operation Manager DEPARTMENT: Operations REPORTS TO: Director of Operations FLSA STATUS: Salaried ... Acts as a liaison to public utility, environmental, and energy agencies. * Serves as MOD (Manager ...

Operation Manager DEPARTMENT: Operations REPORTS TO: Director of Operations FLSA STATUS: Salaried ... Acts as a liaison to public utility, environmental, and energy agencies. * Serves as MOD (Manager ...

Operation Manager DEPARTMENT: Operations REPORTS TO: Director of Operations FLSA STATUS: Salaried ... Acts as a liaison to public utility, environmental, and energy agencies. * Serves as MOD (Manager ...

Operation Manager DEPARTMENT: Operations REPORTS TO: Director of Operations FLSA STATUS: Salaried ... Acts as a liaison to public utility, environmental, and energy agencies. * Serves as MOD (Manager ...

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Showing results 1-20

Utility Operations Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$27K

$55.3K

$103.3K

How much do utility operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for utility operations manager in Michigan is $55,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,700.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Utility Operations Manager jobs in Michigan?

For Utility Operations Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Operations Manager jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Operations Manager jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Utility Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Utility Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Operations Manager job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,308 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Sustainable Energy Utility Strategy & Operations Manager

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

City of Ann Arbor
Public Administration • 501 - 1,000 employees

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and communicate business strategy for the Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU).

  • Build and continuously improve operational systems across the SEU's clean energy service lines.

  • Coordinate closely with colleagues across the City to leverage and align existing processes, organizations, employees, and systems.


City Of Ann Arbor rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Salary: $100,000 - $130,000 (Offer will be commensurate with experience) 

Benefits offered for this opportunity: Non-Union Benefit Summary

The City of Ann Arbor offers a competitive wage and benefits package including medical, vision, dental, paid vacation, sick and holiday leave.

Role Summary:

The Ann Arbor Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) is a first-of-its-kind municipal energy utility, launched to accelerate the City's transition to affordable, reliable clean energy. The SEU is drawing national attention as a replicable model for how local governments can deliver renewable energy services directly to residents and businesses. This position is the second-highest ranking role in the SEU, reporting to the Executive Director, and requires someone with the experience, drive, and grit to help build a new organization from the ground up, along with the flexibility to adapt as it scales.

The SEU Strategy & Operations Manager supports the newly formed Ann Arbor Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) by developing and communicating business strategy, and building and continuously improving operational systems across the SEU’s clean energy service lines.

This position operates in a startup-within-the-City environment, where priorities shift quickly and structure is still being built. It requires a professional who is excited to wear many hats, move fast, and adapt to changing business needs, while coordinating closely with colleagues across the City to leverage and align with existing processes, organizations, employees, and systems. This position requires sound judgment and strong prioritization skills, including the ability to identify and advance mission-critical work when demands exceed available capacity, while maintaining service quality and accountability.

Education, Training and Experience Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree (preferred) in business, public administration, engineering, operations, energy-related field, or a closely related area
  • At least seven (7) years of demonstrated experience in energy/utility operations coordination, supervision, planning, or related field
  • At least one (1) year of management (supervisory) experience
  • Demonstrated experience building, implementing, and improving operational processes in a complex, cross-functional environment
  • Demonstrated experience using continuous improvement approaches and operating with a metrics-driven, iterative improvement mindset
  • The City of Ann Arbor will consider an alternative combination of education and experience.

Education, Training and Experience Preferred:

  • Advanced degree
  • Demonstrated experience in renewable energy operations (solar and/or battery storage/BESS and/or geothermal operations)
  • Experience launching or scaling a new service or program, or working in a startup
  • Experience working in municipal/public-sector environments or navigating complex organizational processes
  • Demonstrated experience in strategy development, such as work in management consulting or internal organizational strategy roles
  • Financial and business acumen
  • Lean/Six Sigma credential(s) (e.g., Yellow/Green Belt) or equivalent training with applied project experience
  • Demonstrated commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality

Licensing Requirements:

  • Valid Driver's License

View Additional Requirements and Information at: SEU Strategy & Operations Manager Job Description


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