Project Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager, Operations Management

Job Overview

Title:

Project Manager
Sector:
Distribution
Seniority:
Mid‑Senior

Location:

Sacramento/Chico, CA
Job Type: Hybrid

As a Project Manager, you will lead the scoping, design, construction, and commissioning of large capital projects within the distribution electric utility sector. Under general direction, you will oversee all aspects of assigned projects, often multi‑year and high‑profile, ensuring quality, budget, and schedule objectives are met. Acting as an owner’s representative, you will safeguard the client’s interests, provide sound advice, and make informed decisions on their behalf.

This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to manage cross‑functional, multi‑location project teams using proven project management methodologies.

In this role, you will take ownership of the full project lifecycle, including planning, execution, and delivery. You will act as an owner’s representative, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget while aligning with business goals. This position requires a strong understanding of project controls, scheduling, cost management, and stakeholder communication.

• Lead planning and execution of complex infrastructure projects with budgets ranging from $500k to $25M
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules with multiple dependencies and milestones
• Manage project budgets, forecasts, and cost tracking to ensure financial performance targets are met
• Monitor schedule and cost performance, identify risks, and implement corrective actions
• Serve as the main point of contact for all project‑related communication
• Lead regular project meetings and provide clear updates to leadership and stakeholders
• Coordinate cross‑functional teams, including engineering, construction, and project controls
• Review project scope, contracts, and change orders to ensure alignment with objectives
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline execution
• Support permitting, approvals, and coordination with external agencies when required
• Mentor junior project managers and provide guidance on best practices
• Prepare presentations, reports, and executive‑level updates

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, business, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in utility‑focused project management (distribution, substation, transmission, underground utilities)
• Strong experience building and managing detailed project schedules
• Experience presenting to senior leadership or executive stakeholders
• Working knowledge of cost control, forecasting, and integrated cost/schedule management
• Proven ability to manage multiple stakeholders and communicate effectively across teams
• Experience leading projects from initiation through closeout

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or similar credential
• Proficiency with Primavera P6, SAP, Microsoft Project, or similar scheduling tools
• Ability to mentor and support the development of other project managers
• Strong problem‑solving skills and a proactive approach to project challenges

• $130,000–$165,000 annual salary
• Paid holiday, sick, and vacation time
• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Annual Bonus
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Flexible Spending Account (FSAs)