Manager, Technical Field Operations

***Can be filled at any Delta Utilities office throughout Louisiana and Mississippi*** JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE Provides direction and leadership in the development and implementation of plans and policies to efficiently manage activities related to technical field operations. Specifically manages corrosion control, leakage detection, valve inspection, pressure regulation, odorization, and measurement activities for gas operations. Actively works with regulatory agencies, engineers, customers, and technical specialists to maintain the existing system infrastructure and ensure accurate measurement, odorization, and pressure regulation of gas. ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Oversee all aspects of technical field operations (TFO) in the areas of leak survey, cathodic protection, valve inspection, leak survey and investigation, field SCADA, pressure regulation, odorization, and high‑pressure metering activities in a gas region to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Responsible for leading and fostering safe work practices for assigned work group, including being a champion for safety to others. Oversee the development of a staff of technical supervisors and craft workers to ensure annual performance reviews are completed, implement and assure completion of all required training for department personnel, and support development of employees for future job growth. Manage all regulatory reviews/audits of system records and respond to all regulatory data requests. Ensure that all maintenance plans are created and implemented in compliance with regulatory or code requirements. Develop, implement, and modify as necessary annual and long‑range TFO plans that ensure all required programs are completed, efficiencies are gained, new technology is deployed, and costs are managed in order to maximize corporate earnings. Review staffing requirements on a regular basis to ensure that all mandated and maintenance work is completed in a timely manner, which includes procuring and managing contract resources as needed. Create scopes of work for the use of contractors to supplement work activities as needed. Monitor the performance and general use of contractors ensuring they meet all company operator qualifications and safety requirements. For leak surveys, ensure all main and service surveys are completed according to schedule, evaluate new technology and process improvements, and ensure audit issues are addressed as necessary. For cathodic protection, review major project needs (i.e., ground beds), review all steel jobs for cathodic protection design, evaluate new technology and process improvements, and ensure audit issues are addressed as necessary. For measurement, oversee the installation and troubleshooting of all large meter stations, odorization equipment, field SCADA equipment, and associated electronics; ensure that lost and unaccounted‑for gas issues are addressed; investigate and support resolution of large volume billing errors and equipment issues. Develop a productive working relationship with the local union where necessary and negotiate changes to processes and procedures as needed. Work with operations and engineering departments to resolve issues, address regulatory needs, and provide technical expertise in the TFO area. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Minimum education required of the position Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field of study from an accredited college or university or a combination of education and related experience totaling at least 8 years Minimum experience required of the position Minimum of 7 years of gas distribution industry experience, with a background in engineering, operations, cathodic protection, measurement, or leak survey. Minimum of 2 years of experience in a leadership capacity, experience can run concurrently. Minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities preferred of the position Able to demonstrate and apply strong analytical skills Able to research, evaluate, solve problems with logical solutions, and make sound decisions Able to demonstrate and apply strong organizational skills with the ability to handle a heavy work volume within time constraints Able to motivate self and others, be an enthusiastic and positive team member, and cope effectively with change Ability to communicate corporate strategy, goals, expectations, and results to employees as well as management Able to demonstrate and apply working knowledge of DOT Regulation 191 and 192 and OSHA rules and regulations; electronics knowledge and experience; regulatory and company policies and procedures; and gas distribution systems operations Able to apply knowledge of industry and company safety standards and regulations Able to use a personal computer and various software proficiently, including GIS, Work Management, and Microsoft 365 tools, including Word, Excel, and Outlook Able to manage people, set goals, and monitor achievements Able to manage time effectively, handle multiple tasks and priorities, operate under general direction, develop own work methods as required, yet follow standard procedures and determine when management is to be consulted on unusual situations Able to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, listening ability, sound judgment, tact, and business acumen to communicate effectively with clients, regulators, vendors, and coworkers Able to make informed decisions, follow procedures, and comply with policies based on the knowledge of the work and the services provided by gas operations as a whole Able to demonstrate and utilize effective oral and written communication skills Able to meet all physical requirements, competency‑based assessments, pre‑employment background checks, pre‑employment drug screen, and other selection criteria determined by the company Able to provide a valid state driver’s license, present and maintain a good driving record, and operate company vehicles safely and in compliance with applicable laws and company policies Any certificates, licenses, etc. required for the position Preferred : National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) certification Notice: As a safety sensitive position, compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) and Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) drug and alcohol regulations is required, including but not limited to pre‑employment drug testing and background screening. Physical Requirements Able to exert up to 10 lbs of force occasionally and/or a minimal amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. Able to operate a motor vehicle and enter and exit vehicle unassisted. Able to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, or crouch occasionally. Able to view and operate a personal computer monitor or laptop screen and sit for long periods of time. Able to operate office machines, including telephone, photocopier, fax machine, calculator, scanner, etc. Working Conditions The Physical Demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the Accountabilities and Essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Able to respond to emergency calls and/or callouts and occasionally return to work while off duty. Able to perform on‑site inspections. Able to work more than 40 hours per week as required to meet established deadlines and accomplish objectives. Able to work indoors in a normal office environment and outdoors with occasional exposure to all weather conditions, hot, dirty, and/or greasy equipment, and noise at field installation sites. Able to travel outside the primary work location in any weather conditions and occasionally overnight to field locations, remote areas, conferences, and/or meetings. Able to wear personal protection safety equipment, such as respirator, safety glasses, hard hat, gloves, and ear plugs occasionally as required by the work. About Delta Utilities Delta Utilities is a natural gas utility headquartered in New Orleans that provides safe, reliable natural gas services across Louisiana and Mississippi. We understand the value of dependable energy and our important role in building stronger, more resilient communities. Delta Utilities is a $1.7 billion organization that represents 600,000 customers and is among the top 40 natural gas utilities in the United States. Delta Utilities acquired CenterPoint Energy's natural gas utility operations in Louisiana and Mississippi in April 2025 and acquired Entergy's natural gas utilities in Baton Rouge and New Orleans in July 2025. Delta Utilities is regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission, the Mississippi Public Service Commission, and the New Orleans City Council. We work closely with our regulatory agencies to deliver safe and reliable natural gas service and maintain fair rates for our customers. Learn more at Delta Utilities and associated entities are equal opportunity employers.We do not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis or any protected class under federal, state, or local law. #J-18808-Ljbffr