Storm Support Operations Manager, Vegetation

Job Summary
The Storm Support Operations Manager (Vegetation) plays a critical leadership role in overseeing storm response operations within Center Phase Energy. This position is responsible for managing subcontractor relationships, coordinating and overseeing storm launches, supporting and leading field deployments, ensuring operational readiness, and maintaining compliance with utility client requirements. This role ensures resources are effectively deployed, operations run smoothly, and all activities align with CPE’s commitment to safety, service excellence, and rapid mobilization.

Storm Response Management:

• Lead regional storm deployment operations, including storm launches, subcontractor check-ins, and coordination with utility clients and storm leads.
• Execute the storm launch process, including updating resource counts in launch tools (e.g., Storm Launch, Storm Manager, Urbint) as required.
• Oversee Storm Lead personnel and support their needs.
• Oversee the accurate and timely completion and approval of storm lead and subcontractor timesheets during events.
• Ensure storm work environments are properly equipped and operational needs are met.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, DOT, and CPE safety protocols, promoting a zero-incident culture.
• Provide resource counts, updates, and situation reports to utility partners and CPE leadership.
• Manage relationships with utility storm leads and bird-dogs to ensure expectations are met or exceeded during storm responses.

Subcontractor Management:

• Establish, maintain, and strengthen relationships with existing subcontractors.
• Identify, vet, and onboard new subcontractor partners through approved platforms and processes.
• Monitor subcontractor resource availability and integrate them into storm launch activities.
• Conduct performance evaluations and ensure annual compliance vetting.

Operational Support & Training:

• Participate in the hiring, onboarding, and training of seasonal/part-time storm personnel.
• Support Storm Lead annual training and ensure readiness for future storm events.
• Mentor and guide storm personnel to maintain morale and ensure operational excellence.
• Understand and manage regional utility client task orders, requirements, and supporting technology applications.
• Contribute to RFP development and rate discussions when required.
• Collaborate with Strategic Accounts to support business development efforts at conferences, tradeshows and company sponsored events as needed.
• Manage oversight resources on a day-to-day basis that support utility customers in the areas of project management, coordination of projects/daily work, safety, engineering, planning and scheduling, quality assurance & control, metering, and various other areas of expertise.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in utility operations, storm restoration, or related field is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field is desired
• Demonstrated ability to manage subcontractor networks and client relationships.
• Experience leading multi-site or regional teams during large-scale events.
• Demonstrated, in-depth knowledge of utility vegetation management (UVM) principles and proper pruning techniques, including natural pruning and directional pruning, consistent with ISA Best Management Practices (BMPs) and applicable ANSI standards (including ANSI A300).
• Broad working knowledge of tree climbing techniques and aerial operations, as well as the mechanical and manual methods used in electrical line clearance operations, with an emphasis on safety, productivity, and compliance around energized conductors.
• Working knowledge of equipment, tools, and machinery used in utility vegetation management and line clearance activities, including saws, aerial lifts, climbing gear, and related safety equipment, with an understanding of proper use and limitations.
• Ability to effectively partner with tree crews, vegetation contractors, storm personnel, and utility representatives while ensuring work practices align with utility specifications, ISA standards, and safety requirements.
• Strong customer communication skills, with the ability to clearly and professionally explain vegetation management practices, safety considerations, and line clearance procedures to customers, property owners, and utility stakeholders.
• In-depth understanding of contractors and utility storm operations during a storm event.
• Strong leadership and team management skills in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments.
• Superior verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with operational software tools (e.g., Storm Manager, Urbint, workforce management systems).
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to each utility's processes and procedures to provide the highest level of services to the utility we are serving.

Physical Requirements

Due to the nature and scope of the essential functions, the importance of personal interactions with coworkers and members of the public, and the availability of job-related tools, equipment and resources at work, performance of the essential functions requires regular, consistent availability, accessibility and presence on-site.

A minimum of 40 hours/week may be required to efficiently perform the job duties of this position, including presence at designated internal and external meetings. This position may also require the ability to respond to and address emergencies and critical situations outside normal business hours, including evenings and weekends.

Environmental & Physical Conditions

The work environment conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. This position works primarily in the field and is exposed to all types of weather conditions including temperature extremes and rainy environments. Outdoor setting involves all types of property and site conditions, including open spaces, timberlands, urban developments, flat and hilly terrain, building construction sites, and road rights-of-way. Subject to outside weather/driving conditions.

Pay: $100,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Remote