Program and Operations Manager - Construction

About The City of Richmond, Department of Public Utilities seeks a Program & Operations Manager – Construction to oversee the execution of natural gas distribution capital improvement projects (CIP) including renewal and new business initiatives. The role manages a $30,000,000+ annual CIP budget and ensures compliance with the Richmond Gas Works Operations & Maintenance Manual and all federal, state, and local regulations. Description PREVIOUS APPLICANTS NEED NOT RE-APPLY Duties Oversee the planning, execution, and completion of renewal and new business natural gas distribution capital improvement projects. Manage a $30M+ annual CIP budget, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. Develop and implement process improvements to enhance project efficiency and quality. Coordinate with internal teams, contractors, and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance and alignment with operational goals. Analyze and report on project performance metrics, providing recommendations for improvements. Ensure all work adheres to the Richmond Gas Works Operations & Maintenance Manual and complies with PHMSA, OSHA, and other state and local regulations. Supervise a team of inspection personnel, providing guidance on compliance standards and best practices. Conduct audits and inspections to verify contractor compliance and project specifications. Address non‑compliance issues and work with stakeholders to implement corrective actions. Lead, mentor, and develop a team of inspection staff, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and accountability. Promote professional development opportunities and ensure the team is trained in the latest industry standards. Collaborate with engineering, operations, and finance departments to align project goals with overall company objectives. Act as a liaison between contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders, ensuring smooth project execution. Provide regular updates to senior leadership on project progress, risks, and financial performance. Work closely with local government agencies, utility companies, and community stakeholders to coordinate project activities. Address public concerns and inquiries related to natural gas infrastructure projects. Qualifications, Special Certifications And Licenses Minimum Training and Experience Bachelor's degree in business, accounting, finance, public administration, or a related field. Six years of journey-level professional experience in the field. Two years of supervisory experience. Equivalent combination of training and experience may be used to meet the minimum qualifications. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. 10+ years of progressive experience in natural gas distribution, utility construction, or capital project management. Proven leadership experience, including managing inspection teams or construction staff. Experience managing large-scale capital improvement projects. Familiarity with federal and state regulations governing natural gas operations (PHMSA, OSHA, etc.). Excellent budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis skills. Strong problem‑solving, negotiation, and conflict‑resolution abilities. Proficiency in project management software, GIS mapping and Microsoft Office Suite. P.E. (Professional Engineer) License or PMP (Project Management Professional) certification. Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Knowledge Accounting, budgeting, accounts payable/receivable. Computer programs such as Microsoft Office Suite. Data analysis and data management. Electronic databases and related software applications. Federal regulations pertaining to the area. Federal, state, and local laws and legal procedures related to the focus area. Processes and procedures related to the assigned area. Project management. City guidelines and standards. In-depth knowledge in the area of focus. Skills Communicating and coordinating with various internal and external departments. Creating and implementing policies and procedures. Gathering and interpreting data routinely. Interpreting and applying federal regulations for programs. Managing contracts, projects, data, reports, etc. Overseeing the daily accounting and procurement functions. Overseeing the financial and operational aspects of programs. Overseeing daily operations and directing workflow. Setting timetables, achieving milestones, tracking progress, and taking corrective actions. Supervising performance evaluations and mentoring. Understanding a program's intent and application. Writing standard operating procedures. Coaching. Conducting, attending, and participating in meetings; providing input as needed. Reviewing, preparing, and submitting reports. Customer service. Oral and written communication. Abilities Adapt. Think critically. Grasp overall objectives and determine steps to achieve them. Multi‑task. Organize. Problem solve. Manage time effectively. Evaluate and analyze data. Americans With Disabilities Act Requirements Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Prospective and current employees are invited to discuss accommodations. Environmental Hazards Working conditions may include travel to other locations within or outside the City of Richmond; exposure to hazardous physical conditions such as mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations; atmospheric conditions such as fumes, odors, dust, gases, and poor ventilation; inadequate lighting; intense noise; and environmental hazards such as disruptive people, imminent danger, and a threatening environment. Physical Requirements and Working Environment The essential duties require the ability to regularly talk, hear, see, and perform repetitive motions; frequently use fingers; and occasionally climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, stand, walk, list, grasp, and feel. The job is considered light work, exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The City of Richmond provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. If you require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to participate in the job application and/or the interview process, please contact Jessica McKenzie, Human Resources Manager by email at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr