1421 Asst. Director - Electric Engineering and Ops

Yubawater; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 245,315 - 327,060; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension plan

457(b) Retirement Savings Plan

Medical, Dental, Vision coverage

Up to $10,000 annual childcare assistance

Job summary

The City of Palo Alto seeks an Assistant Director of Electric Engineering & Operations to oversee 24/7 electric operations and major infrastructure investments. This strategic leader ensures the advancement of climate and sustainability goals while managing a high-performing team.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in electric utility engineering and a vision for operational excellence. Compensation includes a competitive salary range plus a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Eight or more years of experience in utilities or related field.
• At least five years of progressive management experience.
• Demonstrated engineering knowledge and expertise.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize electrical engineering and operations for a 24/7 utility system.
• Drive grid modernization and oversee infrastructure improvements.
• Build high-performing teams and deliver community-focused solutions.

Skills

Leadership

Electrical engineering expertise

Problem-solving

Regulatory compliance

Team building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

California Professional Electrical Engineer (PE) license

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

Assistant Director for Electric Engineering & Operations

Position Summary:
The City of Palo Alto is seeking a dynamic leader to serve as Assistant Director of Electric Engineering & Operations. The role oversees 24/7 electric operations, guides major infrastructure investments, and advances the City’s climate and sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize electrical engineering and operations for a 24/7 utility system.
• Drive grid modernization and infrastructure improvements to support growing demand and electrification.
• Champion innovation and implement modern utility practices.
• Collaborate with internal teams, stakeholders, and regional partners to deliver community-focused solutions.
• Build and inspire high-performing teams in a culture of accountability, safety, and excellence.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a strategic and technically strong utility leader with a vision for electric and fiber operations, deep expertise in electric utility engineering and operations, and a passion for delivering clean, reliable energy.

Key Attributes

• Provide long-term strategic planning for the division.
• Demonstrated engineering knowledge and expertise.
• Strong relationships with other business units and partner agencies.
• Ability to shift focus when priorities change.
• Manage emergency situations with tact.
• Deliver projects through collaborative problem-solving.
• Address operational and environmental challenges.
• Build consensus through leadership and clear expectations.
• Focus on training and developing staff.
• Prepare clear, concise technical and budgetary reports.
• Knowledge of SCADA systems, dispatch procedures, and emergency conditions.
• Operational knowledge of construction, maintenance, field practices, etc.
• Review engineering plans and make recommendations related to field problems.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Eight (8) or more years of experience in utilities or a related field.
• At least five (5) years of progressive management experience.
• California Professional Electrical Engineer (PE) license preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in electrical engineering, electric utility operations, or both.
• Experience with regulatory compliance and capital project management.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range: $245,315.20 - $327,060.00 annually.

Pension: Lifetime income based on years of public service (up to 40% of salary after 20 years).
457(b) Retirement Savings Plan: Matching up to $4,000 per year.
Medical, Dental, Vision: City contributes $2,444/month for family coverage; additional insurance options available.
Life & AD&D Insurance: Basic term life coverage equal to one times salary up to $325,000.
Flexible Spending Account: Pre‑tax savings for healthcare and dependent care.
Vacation: 120‑200 hours per year (≈3‑5 weeks), with option to cash out annually.
Paid Parental Leave: Up to six weeks at 100% salary for first year.
Paid Time Off: 96 hours of sick leave per year, 12 paid holidays, one floating Annual Day of Recognition.
Commuter Benefits: Transit, biking, walking, carpool, parking subsidies.
Employee Assistance Program: Free counseling, financial planning, mental‑health resources.
Childcare & Education: Up to $10,000 annual childcare assistance; eligibility for Palo Alto Unified District schools.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.