Manager Gas Operations, South Area WA-ID

Summary

Manages the operations and facilities within the assigned area to ensure customer satisfaction, quality service, employee safety, and efficient operations. Ensures resources are utilized collaboratively and efficiently across districts. Leads employees in meeting department business goals and objectives, accountable for business results, and effective management of resources. Provides day‑to‑day supervision of operations employees. Schedules and deploys crews, coordinates material and equipment requirements, and ensures safety compliance as needed to support department goals and objectives. Establishes and maintains positive and collaborative relationships within the local community and creates a culture of safety and efficiency for customers and employees. Work is complex, requiring experience performing the job and knowledge and application of job concepts.

Supervision

Manages crew(s) and staff in the Pullman and Clarkston district/service area, spending time at both office locations throughout the week. Incumbent has moderate discretion, using some discretion in daily work and recommending new or revised policies, procedures, and standard practices; investigates and recommends action to supervisor before making decisions. Supervision received is limited; general directions are given with periodic status checks.

Principle Accountabilities

• Manages business operations and continuous improvement in assigned districts and service areas.
• Determines operational needs and schedules crews.
• Conducts regular inspections of fieldwork, checks progress, and ensures compliance with schedules, drawings, and specifications.
• Ensures compliance work is completed in a timely and accurate manner; may perform or participate in project design work.
• Coordinates with vendors, contractors, agencies, and other departments; engages with contracted resources and negotiates services and prices.
• Responsible for all aspects of workplace safety; champions Avista’s Safety Management System and participates in safety meetings.
• Regularly visits employees in the field and spearheads accountability for reporting and documenting safety incidents.
• Prepares and oversees O&M and capital budgets; verifies accuracy of expense accounts, time records, credit‑card reconciliation, invoice approval, and other documents.
• Works as a key stakeholder with the Regional Business Manager and other Avista stakeholders on large‑scale community projects; participates in community and civic affairs.
• Proactively manages corporate and community network issues, policies, and regulations to meet critical business needs.
• Provides off‑hour emergency response by coordinating emergency crew and serviceman work as needed.
• Ensures resources are utilized collaboratively and efficiently across districts; coordinates material and equipment to meet business needs.
• Administers the collective bargaining unit agreement; reviews and approves timecards in accordance with the agreement and wage‑and‑hour laws.
• Manages personnel including hiring, performance management, coaching, employee engagement, continuous education, training, and development; oversees apprentice progress.
• Develops and implements work plans, standard operating procedures, program improvements, and best practices; fosters a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Ensures activities, services and products are compliant with applicable regulations, rules, policies, and procedures.
• Fosters a positive and supportive work environment; promotes belonging and mutual respect.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university in business administration, accounting, finance, engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of relevant experience.
• 3+ years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Similar field or journeyman experience preferred.
• Knowledge of all types of gas construction, area standards, and industry best practices.
• Knowledge of progressive utility experience preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to help customers navigate complex or sensitive issues.
• Ability to effectively plan work activities, schedules, priorities, and utilization of resources.
• Effective and flexible written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions.
• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Pay

Hiring Range: $114,207 to $150,183

Benefits

• Affordable healthcare options including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits with an enhanced 401(k) match
• Incentive programs rewarding performance and contributions
• Competitive paid time off including holidays, personal days, and vacation
• Life and disability insurance for added peace of mind
• Wellness resources supporting mental and physical health
• Education and development support including tuition assistance
• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact
• Optional benefits such as legal insurance, pet insurance, and more (eligibility subject to bargaining unit affiliation)