Director of Power Systems

Nevada Irrigation District

Grass Valley, California

Annual Salary: $173,243 — $233,917 DOE/DOQ

An Award-Winning Special District!

Experience the picturesque beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills, as you lead an innovative agency in power and hydroelectric excellence.The Nevada Irrigation District (NID) is seeking a Director of Power Systems to oversee 30 staff, a hydroelectric budget of approximately $12.7 million, and a capital budget of approximately $4.5 million. This Director will play a critical part in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of eight powerhouses, 13 upper division reservoirs, and nearly 35 miles of pipes, flumes, tunnels and open-ditch canals. This position not only demands a strong understanding of hydroelectric power and water delivery systems, but also a passion for working in remote, rugged natural environments. The ideal candidate has a dynamic blend of technical expertise, regulatory experience, and exceptional interpersonal skills to manage and guide a dedicated team. They will be a capable, confident, and experienced power systems operator, as well as emotionally intelligent and communicative leader. As a key player in the District's emergency response program, the Director of Power Systems will be instrumental in maintaining high standards of operational excellence and regulatory compliance. Use your technical skills while enjoying work-life balance in the great outdoors of Grass Valley, California – apply today!

View the full recruitment brochure here: https://indd.adobe.com/view/2f9789c7-141b-4d6b-842b-e28fc682319d

THE JOB / THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The Director of Power Systems will oversee the functions of the Hydroelectric Department, guiding a dedicated team of 30 staff members, setting organizational goals, overseeing the budget, and driving project completion with efficiency and precision. This role is essential in coordinating with external agencies such as Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), fostering interdepartmental collaboration, ensuring seamless operations, and fostering strong industry relationships. There is a heavy emphasis on regulatory compliance in this role, particularly for FERC and CAISO. An ability to represent NID to outside groups, stay ahead of industry trends, and lead with a forward-thinking approach in hydroelectric power generation will be crucial. This leader will be capable of working in remote and rugged environments and conducting helicopter inspections of dams and other infrastructure.

The District is seeking a Director with developed skills in staff leadership, team building, negotiations, and relationship building for this role. The ideal candidate is not only technically proficient but also personable, a quick thinker, a clear communicator, and comfortable in high-stakes regulatory discussions. In addition to administrative and managerial duties, the Director will be instrumental in talent management, from hiring and training to evaluating and motivating staff. This role requires extensive interaction with regulatory bodies, particularly concerning dam safety and hydroelectric operations, making a deep understanding of these areas essential. Candidates with a strong background in dam safety, hydro operations, and regulatory compliance will thrive in this role. While a registered engineer is preferred, those with equivalent experience in power and/or hydroelectric systems are encouraged to apply.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

• Education: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in engineering, business administration, public administration, or a related field.
• Experience: Seven (7) years of increasingly responsible professional hydroelectric project management; work including three years of administrative and management responsibility.
• Driver’s License: Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

Desired:

• Licensure and experience as an engineer.
• Prior experience working in a rural area of a similar size and terrain.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

An annual salary of $173,243 — $233,917 DOE/DOQ, plus a generous benefits package.

The Nevada Irrigation District fosters a casual, family-friendly, and inclusive work environment. The District emphasizes work-life balance, safety, and maintaining a positive atmosphere for all employees!

HOW TO APPLY: This position will remain open until filled. Qualified candidates will be interviewed as they are identified. For consideration, apply ASAP at: www.wbcpinc.com/job-board

SAVE THE DATES

Round one virtual interviews will take place on July 22nd. Finalists will move forward to round two in-person interviews on August 9th. Selected candidates must be available for both dates.

Questions?

Please contact your recruiter, Josette Reina-Luken, with any inquiries.

• Email: josette@wbcpinc.com
• Phone: (541) 226-1698

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $73,736.39 - $88,800.81 per year

Experience:

• Management: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Grass Valley, CA (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Grass Valley, CA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person