Manager/Director of Engineering- Lea County Electric Cooperative

Lea County Electric Cooperative (LCEC) in Lovington, NM is seeking a collaborative, technically strong, and forward-thinking leader to serve as its next Manager/Director 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.

About Lea County Electric Cooperative

Established in 1949, Lea County Electric Cooperative is headquartered in Lovington, New Mexico. The cooperative plays a vital role in powering communities across Southeast New Mexico and West Texas, encompassing portions of Chaves, Eddy, and Lea Counties in New Mexico, as well as Cochran, Gaines, and Yoakum Counties in Texas.

• 230 MW system peak
• 1.4+ billion kWh annual sales
• Over 4,300 miles of energized line
• 53 owned substations, switch stations and transmission interchange stations
• 70 MW renewable portfolio
• $100M+ annual revenue
• $300M+ total utility plant
• Full transmission and distribution operations
• Central operations hub with multiple satellite locations

The cooperative has a full requirements contract with its G & T - Western Farmers Electric Cooperative located in Anadarko, Oklahoma.

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, load flow, short circuit, coordination, and arc flash to ensure system safety and reliability
• Manage the development and maintenance of system maps, one-line diagrams, and engineering records
• Ensure compliance with NESC, NERC, and other applicable codes and standards
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on engineering projects, system upgrades, and new technologies
• Collaborate with operations, planning, and other departments to support system reliability and member service
• Lead and mentor the engineering team, fostering professional growth and development
• Support succession planning and talent development within the engineering department
• Serve as a key liaison with Western Farmers Electric Cooperative, RUS, and other external partners
• Participate in industry organizations, committees, and working groups to stay current on trends and best practices
• Prepare and present engineering reports, recommendations, and updates to senior management and the Board of Trustees
• Assist in the development and management of the engineering budget

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field; Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred
• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in electric utility engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role
• Strong technical background in electric distribution systems, including system planning, design, and operations
• Experience with system studies, load forecasting, and infrastructure planning
• Knowledge of NESC, NERC, and other relevant codes and standards
• Familiarity with distribution automation, SCADA, and emerging technologies in the electric utility industry
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Commitment to cooperative principles and values
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills