Utility Distribution Project Manager II

CARIAN; Morristown (NJ); On-site; USD 115,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

CARIAN is seeking a Distribution Project Manager II in Morristown, NJ, to oversee electric distribution construction projects for a major utility client. This role requires significant experience in project management, with responsibilities including managing project costs and schedules, coordinating teams during construction, and maintaining stakeholder relationships.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field and at least 9-12 years of relevant experience. The compensation range is competitive, aligned with qualifications and experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 9-12 years of electric distribution or substation construction project management experience.
• Demonstrated experience managing project cost, schedule, and contractor performance.
• PMP certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of 10-20 electric distribution and substation projects.
• Coordinate outage requests and sequenced construction plans.
• Maintain strong working relationships with construction teams.

Skills

Project cost management

Schedule management

Strong communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Knowledge of substations

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field

Job description

Distribution Project Manager II

Location: Morristown, NJ (Office preferred; client-site presence required, localized travel supported)

Job Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $115,000–$170,000

Position Overview

CARIAN is seeking a Distribution Project Manager to support a long‑term electric distribution capital program for a major utility client in New Jersey. This role is responsible for managing multiple construction projects from initiation through closeout, with accountability for scope, schedule, cost, and coordination with utility stakeholders, engineering teams, and construction contractors.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of 10–20 electric distribution and substation projects from inception through completion

• Review and validate project scopes and develop work plans with engineering and utility stakeholders

• Coordinate outage requests and sequenced construction plans with subject matter experts and contractor partners

• Support material and equipment procurement in coordination with engineering teams

• Coordinate environmental and non-environmental permitting reviews and submissions

• Develop construction RFP packages, including scopes of work, schedules, and permitting documentation

• Evaluate contractor bids and support award recommendations to the utility client

• Facilitate pre‑construction meetings and ongoing project progress meetings

• Drive construction progress, frequently supporting work on‑site

• Oversee pre‑energization activities and project closeout

• Maintain strong working relationships with construction teams through regular site visits and communication

• Coordinate with schedulers to develop and maintain detailed Primavera P6 project schedules

• Maintain project budgets, monthly forecasts, and accrual tracking

• Utilize client systems for financial reporting, contract management, and project documentation

• Report regularly on schedule, cost, safety, procurement, environmental, and design‑related issues

• Maintain clear communication between the field, project office, and utility stakeholders

Project Types and Scope

• Electric distribution circuit rebuilds, pole replacements, reclosers, URD work, line upgrades, switches, and customer connections

• Substation terminal upgrades, breakers, relays, and equipment replacements (4.8kV–34.5kV)

• Utility communications projects, including RTUs and network equipment

• New customer service connections and generator interconnections

• Individual project budgets typically ranging from approximately $50K to $5M

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field

• Minimum of 9‑12 years of electric distribution or substation construction project management experience

• Demonstrated experience managing project cost, schedule, and contractor performance

• Working knowledge of substations, distribution systems, or utility communications infrastructure

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills

• PMP certification preferred

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to client project sites

Compensation

The annual salary range is $115,000–$170,000. This range represents a good‑faith estimate at the time of posting; actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, schedule, and other factors permitted by law. The initial anticipated engagement is approximately three to six months, subject to business needs and performance. This temporary role is not eligible for CARIAN’s regular full‑time employee benefits, except as required by applicable law.

Equal Employment Opportunity

CARIAN is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire and develop talent based on qualifications, performance, and business needs. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. As a woman‑owned firm dedicated to the power sector, we are committed to building a team that reflects professionalism, expertise, and integrity at every level.

Employment is contingent upon the candidate having and maintaining valid authorization to work in the United States. The Company does not sponsor, and will not sponsor, employment‑based visas or provide immigration support for this position.