Assistant Project Manager / Staff Engineer

About the role

CARIAN is seeking an Assistant Project Manager / Staff Engineer to support the delivery of overhead utility construction projects for a major electric utility client in New Jersey. This role is ideal for candidates with field or construction experience who are highly organized, safety-focused, and ready to support the successful execution of Outside Plant (OSP) work.

Responsibilities

• Support planning and execution of overhead electric distribution construction projects
• Coordinate with contractors on project scope, schedule, materials, and readiness
• Conduct pre-construction site walkdowns and field reviews
• Ensure construction work aligns with utility safety practices, operational requirements, and reliability goals
• Collaborate with client teams to update GIS data and field prints (including redlines)
• Affiliate with outage coordination and contingency planning
• Track field progress, flag issues, and support resolution
• Contribute to lessons learned and continuous improvement initiatives
• Provide limited after-hours/on-call support as needed during emergencies

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience in utility construction, operations, engineering, or field project management
• Strong understanding of overhead electric distribution work
• Able to coordinate field activity across multiple job sites and teams
• Clear communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and general project tracking tools
• Valid U.S. driver’s license and reliable transportation to field locations

Preferred (Not Required)

• Familiarity with utility GIS systems and redlining practices
• Experience with pole installation and reading electric one-line diagrams
• Prior work with electric distribution field assets or substations
• Utility project management or outage planning experience
• Prior working knowledge of SAP and Ariba

Benefits

The role includes eligibility for bonus incentives, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company 401(k) match. Employment is contingent upon the candidate having and maintaining valid authorization to work in the United States. The Company does not sponsor, and will not sponsor, employment-based visas or provide immigration support for this position.