Lea County Electric Cooperative- Manager of Engineering
About the role
Lea County Electric Cooperative in Lovington, NM is seeking a collaborative, technically strong, and forward-thinking leader to serve as its next Manager of Engineering. This critical leadership role will guide engineering strategy, system planning, and infrastructure development to ensure the continued reliability, safety, and long-term success of the cooperative’s electric distribution system.
Responsibilities
Lead engineering efforts to improve reliability, safety, efficiency, and long-term performance of the electric distribution system.
Design and implement a four-year maintenance and construction plan to optimize system operations.
Conduct and oversee system analysis, load forecasting, and infrastructure planning.
Evaluate future capital investments and engineering priorities that align with cooperative objectives.
Oversee studies on voltage regulation, arc flash safety, and system coordination to enhance network performance.
Ensure sound engineering design and technical decision-making across distribution projects.
Maintain strong working knowledge of regulatory and industry requirements impacting engineering operations.
Support development and execution of maintenance, construction, and capital improvement plans.
Partner with operations and construction teams to ensure engineering standards are maintained.
Improve engineering processes, documentation, and project coordination.
Monitor system demands and identify infrastructure upgrades needed for future growth.
Lead, mentor, and develop engineering staff, including early-career engineers.
Build internal technical depth and support succession planning efforts.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement.
Promote strong communication and effective teamwork across departments.
Encourage innovation, initiative, and sound problem-solving.
Provide engineering insight and recommendations to leadership.
Requirements
Strong knowledge of electric utility engineering and infrastructure systems.
Experience in distribution engineering, system studies, and power flow analysis.
A commitment to safety, integrity, and operational excellence.
Demonstrated accountability and dependability.
Strong interpersonal communication and team-building skills.
Ability to mentor, coach, and develop engineering talent.
Comfortable taking initiative to get results.
A practical, solutions-oriented mindset with sound decision-making ability.
Appreciation for cooperative values and member-focused service.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or closely related engineering field.
Minimum 5 years of leadership experience.
Minimum 5 years of electric utility experience.
Experience with system studies, load flow analysis, and technical engineering oversight.
Demonstrated ability to lead teams and develop employees.
Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
Valid New Mexico driver’s license (or ability to obtain) and compliance with drug testing policies.
Ability to reside within a 30-minute commute of LCEC headquarters.
Skills
Knowledge of electric utility engineering and infrastructure systems.
Experience in distribution engineering, system studies, and power flow analysis.
Commitment to safety, integrity, and operational excellence.
Accountability and dependability.
Interpersonal communication and team-building skills.
Mentoring and coaching abilities.
Initiative and problem-solving skills.
Appreciation for cooperative values and member-focused service.
Benefits
LCEC offers an excellent comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, long term disability, 401k and employer funded pension (NRECA R&S Plan).
Pay
Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Schedule
N/A