Network Manager

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

The Network Manager is responsible for the development and execution of the Utility Technology Roadmap, as well as the management of Starkville Utilities' core technology, information, and communications platforms. This position oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of technology and data related projects across the organization. The Network Manager will perform a broad range of project management duties related to technology initiatives, data analytics, geospatial analysis, and workflow optimization to support operational efficiency and strategic objectives. This position is expected to remain actively involved in the implementation, administration, troubleshooting, and support of technology systems and infrastructure and is not solely a supervisory or strategic role.

 ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Supervises and evaluates assigned personnel; identifies employee concerns and problems, directs work, counsels, recommends disciplinary action encouraging employee growth; and conducting training activities.
• Directs and coordinates the activities of project teams to ensure projects and operations follow schedules, budgets and remain in alignment with policy objectives.
• Analyze, evaluate, install, design, maintain and support computer network design, operating systems and business requirements; consult with department personnel; and identify suitable areas for strategic network improvement and upgrades.
• Manages and administers application platforms throughout their lifecycle, working with stakeholders and users to ensure platforms meet functional requirements and expected outcomes.
• Possesses knowledge of and the aptitude to learn a range of software platforms and applications that may be assigned, to include but not be limited to operating systems such as (IT, SCADA Systems, AMI, GIS, Fiber and Business Process software applications), including the assessment, demonstration, development and implementation of said components associated with the Utilities operating model.
• Delivers reliable services to the operation while improving quality and efficiency through external comparison while maintaining an unrelenting focus on continuous improvement in a cost-effective manner.
• Develop and manage long term capital planning through a prioritization process based on risk-based business cases.  
• Assists with developing and managing the annual operating budget for technology to ensure consistency with overall strategic objectives and plans.
• Work collaboratively with the Executive Team to ensure tactical plans, projects and strategies are integrated and aligned.
• Facilitates the study of new technologies and their applicability to Starkville Utilities as well as futuristic customer expectations. 
• Analyzes future opportunities and threats; assess long-term business uncertainty and risk; and make recommendations to executive management to best position the Utilities Department for continued success. 
• Promotes change in culture and business systems that will ensure achievement of strategic goals within the organization.
• Serves as department point of contact and project manager of all Utilities technology related consultants, vendors, contractors and other agencies/parties.
• Establishes and maintains documentation standards and practices for technical infrastructure.
• Communicates with leaders, co-workers, users, vendors, and external parties to discuss work in progress, exchange information, resolve problems, coordinate equipment needs, provide operational support, and project management.
• Troubleshoots, develop plan of action, assign, supervise, and resolves complex technical problems impacting Utilities’ operations.
• Manages vendors and service contracts for technology maintenance.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

     KNOWLEDGE of, SKILLS AND ABILITIES to:

• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Knowledge of electric utility and energy industry and technologies relevant to the utility industry.
• Knowledge of approaches to strategic and technology planning.
• Knowledge of SCADA Systems, AMI, GIS, and Fiber.
• Knowledge of utility technology infrastructure, business applications, communications networks, and operational technology systems.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of best practices related to change management.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, Local laws, and ordinances that apply to utility operations.
• Knowledge of City practice, policy, and procedure.
• Skill and ability in customer service and communicating with customers.
• Skill and ability in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill and ability in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting applicable data.
• Skill and ability in oral and written communication.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications
• Ability to stay apprised of relevant technologies to integrate into the long-term strategic vision of the City/Utilities Department.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions/changes in priorities.
• Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events.
• Ability to establish and maintain excellent communication and working relationships with other employees and the public.
• Ability to work well within a team environment and independently.

 EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Sciences, Management Information Systems, Business Management, or related field, plus five (5) years of progressively responsible experience supporting enterprise technology, operational technology, utility systems, or related infrastructure environments, of which two (2) years were in a managerial capacity and two (2) years of information technology related operations or planning.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and acceptable MVR.

  PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Master's degree preferred; Four (4) years of information technology experience to include experience in a management role with demonstrable experience with personnel, operations, strategic planning and budget, or a related field.

 PHYSICAL, MENTAL, & OTHER CAPABILITIES:

The job is performed primarily indoors in an office setting.  Requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, see, and effectively communicate with others for extended periods of time.  May be required to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds without assistance.  Must be able to handle multiple tasks or projects simultaneously; work with numerous interruptions; and adjust to changing priorities.  Must demonstrate good use of judgment and demonstrate the ability to properly deal with confidential matters.  Must use good interpersonal skills.