Electric Utility Distribution Project Manager

ESPO; Morristown (NJ); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Distribution Project Manager to oversee a variety of electrical distribution projects across New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. This role involves managing project costs, timelines, and stakeholder relationships while ensuring successful project completion. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project management, particularly in distribution lines and substations, and will thrive in a dynamic environment that requires both field and office work. If you possess excellent communication and analytical skills and are ready to take on a challenging yet rewarding role, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in distribution line or substation project management.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage 10-20 projects from inception to completion.
• Develop project work plans with Engineering & Stakeholders.
• Update and maintain detailed project schedules in P6.

Skills

Project Management

Cost Management

Schedule Management

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management

Tools

P6

Job description

DISTRIBUTION PROJECT MANAGER

Location: Morristown, NJ or Reading, PA

Job Type: Long Term Contract

• Our client has an immediate need for Project Managers to support a program of Electrical Distribution construction projects across New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. This Program has been in progress for 7 years, with an expected run of another 5-10 years.
• The Project Manager will report directly to the Lead Project Manager and is responsible for managing project costs, ensuring successful completion within specified dates, and maintaining professional relationships with the Owner, subcontractors, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders.

Examples of Project Types

• Distribution Line – Circuit rebuilds, pole replacements, reclosers, tripsavers, URDs, upsizing lines, customer connections, Co-Op projects, line switch replacements.
• Substation – Terminal upgrades including breakers, relays, and physical equipment, with voltages from 4.8kV to 34.5kV.
• Communications – RTU replacements, cell antennas, MPLS routers installation.
• New Distribution Customer connections and Generator interconnections (solar, wind).
• Project budgets range from small ($50k) to large ($5M). Typically, PMs handle a $10M project portfolio annually.

Project Manager Responsibilities

1. Manage 10-20 projects from inception to completion.
2. Vet initial scope and develop project work plans with Engineering & Stakeholders.
3. Develop outage requests and work plans with SMEs & contractors.
4. Coordinate procurement of major and minor equipment.
5. Handle environmental and non-environmental permitting reviews and submissions.
6. Prepare RFP packages, evaluate bids, and recommend awards.
7. Facilitate pre-construction and progress meetings.
8. Drive schedule and progress during construction, often on-site.
9. Complete pre-energization and closeout activities.
10. Build rapport with construction teams through meetings and calls.
11. Update and maintain detailed project schedules in P6.
12. Manage project budgets and financial forecasts, including monthly accruals.
13. Use client programs for financial updates, contract management, and documentation.
14. Report regularly on progress, costs, schedules, procurement, safety, and issues requiring support.
15. Maintain clear communication between site, office, and clients.
16. Work approximately 80% in the field and 20% in the office.

Role Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in distribution line or substation project management, including cost and schedule management.
• Knowledge of substations, telecommunications, or transmission lines. Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus but not mandatory.
• Ability to travel within a 1-3 hour radius from the reporting location. Valid driver’s license required.

EO/Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans

For more information, visit www.espocorp.com or call 630-789-2525. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to attributes protected by law.