Operations Manager Grand Rapids Public Utilities

Operations Manager

Grand Rapids Public Utilities (GRPU) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Operations Manager. Under limited supervision of the General Manager, the Operations Manager performs technical, supervisory, and administrative work related to the construction, operation, maintenance, and repair of the Utility’s electric distribution, water treatment and distribution, and wastewater collection and treatment systems.

The position plans and supervises Utility personnel responsible for the operations and maintenance of these utility systems and oversees the day-to-day operations and capital projects of assigned qualified and skilled personnel. Oversight is provided through inspection, consultation, review of reports, and assistance with complex technical and operational problems.

The position prepares and manages operational and capital budgets, provides reports and presentations, and maintains the records necessary to support the safe, reliable, efficient operation of Utility’s infrastructure. The Operations Manager also serves as Assistant General Manager and assists the General Manager with Utility administration and leadership, including organizational planning, personnel management, and coordination across Utility functions.

The position exercises personnel and administrative authority as delegated by the General Manager and may act on the General Manager’s behalf when assigned or during the General Manager’s absence.

Qualified applicants must have:

• Experience: Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in project management, engineering and construction, utility operations, infrastructure management, or a related field, including at least five (5) years of experience supervising and leading employees with increasing responsibility for personnel management and organizational leadership.
• Project and Operational Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex infrastructure projects and competing priorities simultaneously, with working knowledge of utility construction, infrastructure planning, maintenance practices, procurement, budgeting, and contract administration.
• Technical Knowledge and Judgment: Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, plans, specifications, technical reports, contracts, regulations, and other complex documents; apply sound analytical and decision-making skills; and independently evaluate and resolve complex problems. • Communication: Professional-level oral and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly communicate complex technical and operational information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Interpersonal and Leadership Skills: Strong interpersonal, leadership, organizational, and collaboration skills, including tact, diplomacy, flexibility, and the ability to work effectively with employees, contractors, consultants, governmental entities, customers, and Utility officials.
• Integrity and Accountability: High level of integrity and ability to exercise independent judgment, discretion, and accountability in carrying out the responsibilities of the position.

The salary range is $98,404.80 - $143,083.20 and GRPU provides an excellent health insurance and benefit package.

The complete position description and application are available at www.grpuc.org or by contacting Grand Rapids Public Utilities at 218-326-7189. Please email completed application and resume along with required documentation to Megan Sjostrand at HR@grpuc.org or mail to Grand Rapids Public Utilities, 500 SE 4th Street, Grand Rapids, MN 55744. Applications will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, September 27, 2026. GRPU is an equal employment opportunity employer.