Mgr, Vegetation Management; MiEnergy - Rushford MN

Vegetation Manager

MiEnergy Cooperative is accepting applications for the position of Vegetation Manager in Rushford, MN. Compensation is determined by a combination of factors, including but not limited to education, work experience, and certifications. The actual offer may vary, reflecting the candidate's unique blend of experience, educational background, and skill level.

Position Summary:

At MiEnergy Cooperative, we take pride in delivering safe, reliable electric service to the communities we serve—and our vegetation management program is a key part of that commitment. As our Vegetation Management Manager, you'll have the opportunity to lead a critical program that keeps our system running safely and efficiently. In this role, you'll blend strategy, field leadership, and community engagement while working with a team that values collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee MiEnergy's, Allamakee-Clayton's and Heartlands Vegetation Management Programs, ensuring safe, reliable line clearance operations across all service territories
• Develop and execute long-term vegetation management strategies to reduce outages and improve system reliability
• Manage vegetation contractors, including contract performance, billing review, and compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards
• Supervise and support the Vegetation Management Crew while providing leadership to contractors and field teams
• Oversee vegetation management systems and tools to plan, schedule, track, and report program activities
• Establish and monitor performance metrics (e.g., cycle completion, outage reduction, safety, and productivity) to drive continuous improvement
• Conduct field audits and inspections to ensure adherence to OSHA, NESC, ANSI, DOT, and environmental regulations
• Partner with Engineering & Operations departments to integrate vegetation data into system planning and reliability efforts
• Lead risk tree assessment and line patrol initiatives to proactively identify and mitigate vegetation-related hazards
• Develop and manage the annual vegetation management budget, ensuring cost effective use of resources
• Support contractor procurement processes, including development, bid evaluation, and contract administration
• Serve as the escalation point for complex member concerns, delivering thoughtful and professional resolutions
• Lead community outreach and education efforts related to tree planting best practices and vegetation management programs
• Promote a strong culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement across all vegetation management activities

Minimum Qualifications:

An Associate Degree in Forestry, Arboriculture, Environmental Science, or related field, or ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification, or Utility Arborist certification plus (5) five years of experience in line clearance, vegetation management, tree work, or arboriculture is required. Previous leadership experience is preferred.

Skills:

• Proficiency in basic computer skills, vegetation management software, GIS, and Microsoft Office Suite

• Strong knowledge of tree biology, pruning standards, and vegetation control practices

Licenses and

Certifications:

• A valid Driver's License is required.

• A pesticide applicator license is required. If the candidate does not have the license at the time of hire, they must obtain it within one year of hire

Physical Demands:

Ability to lift and move equipment and tools (up to 50 lbs). Frequent standing, walking, and bending in outdoor environments, which can include uneven or rugged terrain.

MiEnergy Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers an excellent benefit package including medical, dental, vision and life insurance, 401K, retirement pension, paid time off and holidays and a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications.