1063 Chief Operating Officer-FILLED (Palo Alto)

Utility Chief Operating Officer

Become part of this prestigious utility company dedicated to delivering a wide array of City-owned and operated utility services, including electricity, natural gas, water, sanitary sewer, and commercial fiber optic services, to residents and businesses alike.

The Community

Palo Alto, famed as the “Birthplace of Silicon Valley,” boasts a population of 69,700 residents and nearly 100,000 employment opportunities. Distinguished among municipal entities, the City of Palo Alto administers a comprehensive range of services, including gas, electric, water, sewer, refuse, and storm drainage, offered at highly competitive rates. Additionally, the city provides an extensive array of community amenities, including 36 parks, 39 playgrounds, five community and youth centers, 41 miles of walking and biking trails, and five libraries.

With a history spanning over a century, Palo Alto derives its name from a majestic coastal redwood tree over a thousand years old, situated along San Francisquito Creek, where early Spanish explorers settled.

The Department

The City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) history began over one hundred years ago, in 1896 when the water supply system was first installed. Two years later, the wastewater or sewer collection system came online in 1898. In 1900, the municipal electric power system began operation, followed in 1917 by a natural gas distribution system. Palo Alto is the only city in California to own and operate six essential utility services, including refuse and storm drain (operated out of Public Works).

CPAU is a diverse group with 260 employees with five divisions: including administration, customer service, engineering, operations, and resource management. They cater to the needs of residents, businesses, and the council, with a strong focus on climate action, offering water, wastewater, gas, electric, and fiber.

The Position

The utility’s COO will oversee three direct reports and indirectly manage five additional personnel. Their primary focus will be on upgrading the entire electric system, including numerous fiber projects. They will collaborate closely with Assistant Directors, engaging in negotiations, acting as peacemakers, and demonstrating soft skills in fostering a shared vision.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the COO position must possess a background in electric utilities, with at least seven years of experience in supervisory, managerial, or directorial roles. They should also have knowledge of gas, water, wastewater, and fiber systems.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Possession of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in engineering, business, public administration, or a field directly relevant to the management of a utility.
• Professional Engineering License and/or Master’s degree in public or business administration or a related field is preferred.
• Seven years of experience in engineering, operations, and/or business in a multi-utilities organization, five years of which should be in a senior management capacity.
• A progressive career with supervisory and growing responsibilities for broader elements of the organization.

Compensation Benefits

The salary range for this position is $200,004.60 - $333,341 annually. Placement within this range is dependent upon the qualifications. In addition, the City also provides a competitive benefits package.

To Apply

If you are interested in this outstanding opportunity, please contact:

Jenna Flanagan

(916) 304-6663

Filing Deadline

The filing deadline for this position is on June 17, 2024.

The City of Palo Alto is an equal-opportunity employer.