Supervisor, Utility Operations

The Supervisor of Utility Operations is responsible for overseeing and coordinating the operations of utility systems and the team of utility operators to ensure smooth and efficient operations. This role focuses on maintaining and managing equipment, vendors, and daily operational activities while ensuring compliance with safety, regulatory, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards. Additionally, this role also provides training, technical support, and leadership to the utility operations team.

Job Description

What You’ll Do

• Manages and oversees daily utility system operations, including compressed gases, cooling towers, plant steam, chillers, HVAC, boilers, fire alarms, and utility management systems (e.g., Delta V, Simplex, BMS)
• Supervises a team of utility operators, and provides training, guidance, and development opportunities
• Troubleshoots utility system issues and ensures equipment operates efficiently while adhering to compliance and safety standards
• Performs routine inspections and analysis to identify areas for improvement and implements energy-saving measures to minimize operational costs and environmental impact
• Responds to equipment failures and emergencies promptly to ensure continuous operations
• Assists in preparing utility systems for emergencies, including power outages, fire alarms, and adverse weather events
• Ensures compliance with GMP, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and other regulatory standards
• Maintains and updates standard operating procedures (SOPs) and document incidents reported by utility operators
• Participates in cross-departmental meetings to provide technical expertise
• Assists in implementing process improvements
• Supports site operations and handles emergency work orders outside regular working hours, as needed
• Collaborates on the development and implementation of safety procedures and risk assessments
• Enforces all company policies (e.g., time off, shift work, inclement weather) that directly impact employees
• Completes required administrative tasks (e.g., timecard approvals, time off requests, expense reports, etc.)
• Participates in the recruitment process and retention strategies to attract and retain talent
• Other duties, as assigned
  
  

Knowledge & Skills

• Advanced knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, chemical treatment, and control systems
• Effective communication, both written and oral
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Willingness to coach, lead, and develop a team
• Ability to effectively present information to others
• Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodologies or other continuous improvement techniques
• Must be able to work shifts and on-call, as needed
  
  

Required Skills

• High School Diploma/GED with 6 years of experience in utility operations or related field
• Prior experience working in a GMP environment
• Experience using Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
  
  

Preferred Skills And Certification

• Associate’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Applied Engineering, or Industrial Technology
• Prior experience in utility operations, pharmaceutical manufacturing, or another highly regulated industry
• Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) or other data tracking software experience
• Experience developing and implementing preventative maintenance systems
• Experience in project management or leading cross-functional teams
  
  

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• May work in Mechanical/Production spaces that may require hearing protection and enrollment in a hearing conservation program.
• Will work in environment operating a motor vehicle or Powered Industrial Truck.
• May be required to operate a pallet jack
• Ability to discern audible cues.
• Ability to inspect or perform a task with 20/20 corrected vision, visual acuity, including distinguishing color.
• Ability to ascend or descend ladders, scaffolding, ramps, etc.
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time - up to 60 minutes
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time - up to 60 minutes
• Ability to conduct activities using repetitive motions that include writs, hands and/or fingers.
• Ability to operate machinery and/or power tools.
• Ability to conduct work that includes moving objects up to 33 pounds.
• Ability to bend, push or pull, reach to retrieve materials from 18” to 60” in height, and use twisting motions.