Utilities Director

Department: Utilities | Position Status: Regular Full-Time | Supervisor Role: Yes

Join Our Mission: The Poarch Creek Indians place a high value on individuals who share our commitment to community, tradition, and progress. As Alabama's only Federally Recognized Native American Tribe, we take pride in a history that spans generations and is deeply rooted in resilience and cultural heritage. Our mission is to uplift the lives of our Tribal Members, preserve our traditions, and drive innovation for a thriving future. If you are passionate about serving with purpose and authenticity while fostering trust, unity, and growth, we welcome you to join us on this meaningful journey.

About the Role

As a leader of others, we are seeking an inspiring leader who excels at fostering engagement, embraces flexibility, and champions a culture of collaboration and growth. In this role, you will have the opportunity to guide and influence others, empowering your team to achieve shared goals and drive meaningful results. This role plays a strong commitment to understanding and embracing the Poarch Creek Indians Values of Perseverance, Opportunity, Accountability, Respect, Culture, and Honesty.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the subject matter expert on utility operations and advise Tribal Council and the Utilities Authority
• Develop and implement utility policies, procedures, and regulatory compliance programs
• Lead utility operations, including water, wastewater, and infrastructure systems, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant service
• Oversee projects, contracts, budgets, grants, and departmental resources
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and Tribal regulations
• Provide day-to-day leadership, supervision, and performance management for department staff
• Plan, direct, and coordinate all departmental operations to achieve organizational goals
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Engineering or related field, and/or a Certification in Utility Management with no less than four (4) years of senior management experience in the public water/wastewater/solid waste industry
• Must possess and maintain a Grade II or higher State of Alabama Water Operators Certification
• Must possess and maintain a Grade II or higher State of Alabama Waste Water Operators Certification
• Five (5) years of experience managing, operating, and maintaining multiple water, waste water, and/or solid waste systems simultaneously
• Five (5) years of experience in complying with Federal and State of Alabama regulatory agencies required
• Ten (10) years of supervisory experience in monitoring and coordinating the activities of subordinates, including general supervision, performance evaluations, disciplinary procedures, leave approvals, timesheets, etc.
• Ability to work odd and irregular hours, as needed
• Must possess a valid state driver’s license and insurable driving record according to Tribal insurance guidelines
• Must successfully pass the required criminal and character background check
• Ability to travel and participate in required training, leadership development, and other events
• Ability to perform all duties and responsibilities of this position adequately and successfully

Skills

• Knowledge of applicable local, state, federal, and Tribal utility regulations
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and other business software
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results
• Excellent project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• High integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to quality
• Ability to improve processes, build collaborative relationships, and thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Accountable, adaptable, and results-oriented

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance and voluntary benefits
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) with employer match
• Performance bonuses and COLA increases

Preference will be given in accordance with Title 33 (Tribal Employment Rights) of the Tribal Code/DFWP. Indian preference, spousal preference, or first generation: In the event more than one applicant meets the requirements, preference shall be given in the following order: (1) Tribal Member (2) First Generation Descendant of a Tribal Member (3) Spouse of Tribal Member (4) Indian (5) Non-Indian. In the event that a position of employment is funded in whole or in part by any federal grant and/or contract or other public funding, preference shall be given in the following order: (1) Indian (2) Non-Indian. In order to receive preference, the appropriate documentation must be submitted.