CDE Lightband delivers advanced telecommunication services and solutions.
The Chief Operations Officer (COO) is a member of the Management Team and reports directly to the General Manager. The COO partners with all leadership members to oversee Operations, directing the Operations Manager (who leads Electric Line Workers, Fiber, Contract, and Meter teams) as well as the Utility Infrastructure Manager, Meter Manager, Electrical Engineering Manager, and Fleet.
The COO directs, coordinates, and manages the distribution and transmission facilities within the Electric teams, establishing business strategies, coordinating cross‑functional projects, monitoring budgets, allocating resources, and enforcing the highest safety standards as defined by the American Public Power Association Safety Manual and applicable regulations.
Key duties include directing staff, prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, ensuring training and compliance with policies, maintaining a safe work environment, and making hiring, termination, and disciplinary recommendations. The COO develops and evaluates projects, processes, procedures, and systems; plans work plans and system studies; monitors compliance with federal, state, and local regulations; collaborates with the Systems Engineer on electrical system modifications and outage response; prepares and administers departmental and project budgets; and prepares operational records and reports for diverse audiences.
Qualifications require a bachelor’s degree (preferred) and at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in an electric utility, including a minimum of two years of supervisory experience (five years preferred). A valid driver’s license and CPR/AED certification (or ability to obtain) are required; an equivalent education‑experience combination may also be considered.
The role demands strong leadership, budgeting, coaching, and managerial skills; knowledge of utility operations, safety regulations, construction methods, and customer service; ability to plan long‑range projects, manage resources, and communicate effectively; and proficiency with basic computer applications and presentation software.
Physical demands include frequent fine dexterity, lifting up to 100 lb, climbing ladders, and standing or walking for extended periods, with occasional repetitive motion and exposure to outdoor environments.
The position requires indoor and outdoor work, travel to sites using a company vehicle, exposure to extreme temperatures, mechanical and electrical hazards, noise, dust, and the possibility of working outside regular hours.
All employees must adhere to CDE Lightband’s Code of Ethics, Mission & Vision, and comply with EEO, drug‑free, E‑Verify, and i9 policies.
This full‑time, exempt, hourly position works business hours with occasional out‑of‑hour duties. It is classified under pay grade 21 and is based in the Operations division.