Operations Manager

Position: Operations Manager - Utility Locating
Location: Must reside within a 50-mile radius of Sioux Falls, SD
Status: Full-Time, Exempt Reports to: Director of Operations

Summary:
The Operations Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of a designated area within the company. This role requires strong leadership, operational management, and industry experience to meet company goals in safety, quality, production, and profitability. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of P&L, employee development, and customer satisfaction in a high-paced, compliance-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities:
• Oversee all operational aspects in the assigned area, ensuring alignment with company standards and customer expectations.
• Manage and track P&L for assigned areas; achieve or exceed profit margin goals.
• Lead, coach, and mentor Area Managers, Area Trainer and Technicians to ensure optimal performance and compliance.
• Monitor daily ticket flow and resource allocation to maintain productivity and on-time performance.
• Conduct daily reviews of production data, including hours, ticket closures, and any discrepancies or misses.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety procedures, and contractual obligations.
• Maintain and oversee inventory, including paint, flags, equipment, and fleet maintenance.
• Address internal HR issues and employee concerns with appropriate documentation and collaboration.
• Handle escalated complaints from customers, excavators, or property owners professionally and promptly.
• Conduct damage investigations and corrective action planning as needed.
• Review and approve timecards, schedules, and administrative tasks for area staff.
• Participate in and lead safety meetings and supervisor huddles.
• Support strategic growth through local networking, customer relations, and business planning.

Leadership & Training:
• Develop Area Managers through hands-on training, performance coaching, and succession planning.
• Lead safety culture initiatives with a focus on zero incidents.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and a results-driven mindset among field teams.
• Assist with hiring, interviewing, and onboarding of new staff within the area.
• Oversee the Training Program to ensure new Technicians are prepared and given the opportunity to grow and be successful.

Qualifications:
Required:
• 3+ years' experience with P&L responsibility.
• 3-5 years of line locating experience.
• 2+ years in a leadership/management role in utility services or similar industry.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Able to pass drug screening and background check.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.

Preferred:
• Bachelor's degree in business, Operations, or related field.
• 10+ years in contract utility locating.
• Demonstrated success in leading large teams and meeting profitability targets.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:
• Ability to work in extreme outdoor weather conditions (heat, rain, snow, etc.).
• Able to sit, stand, walk (up to 2 miles/week), bend, lift (up to 50 lbs.), and climb.
• Must be able to ride in a vehicle for extended hours.
• Must always wear required PPE in the field.
• Flexible work schedule, including early mornings, extended shifts, and weekends as needed, however this is a work from the office or in the field with the Team role, 30% travel maybe required.

Additional Responsibilities:
• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
• Represent the company positively with customers, partners, and the public.
• Drive continuous improvement in safety, quality, operational efficiency, and the service required by the company and our customers.
• Other duties as assigned are based on business and customer needs.