Utilities Chief Operating Officer

Job Description:

Utilities Chief Operating Officer

Description

Description

Lead the Future of Utilities—Advance Your Executive Career with Us!

To view complete job announcement click HERE .

The City of Palo Alto operates a full suite of municipal utility services, including electric, natural gas, wastewater collection, water, and fiber optics. Founded on the principles of delivering quality public services at an affordable rate for community members, the City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) is award-winning for reliability, safety, environmental sustainability, workforce development, and infrastructure system improvements. Join an inspiring team for a rewarding career!

The ideal candidate for the Chief Operating Officer (COO) possesses a background in a multi-utilities organization, with at least seven years of experience in supervisory, managerial, or directorial roles. Reporting to the Director of Utilities, the COO assists in managing and directing multiple major divisions within the Utilities Department which includes directing day-to-day operational activities to ensure smooth and efficient operations. Typical duties include: identifying, analyzing, and proposing solutions to operational problems and staff and budgetary issues; analyzing and revising operating procedures in operation of water, gas and electric distribution systems, fiberoptic telecommunications system, wastewater collection system, as well as the Customer Service Center.

Successful candidates will have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in engineering, business, public administration, or a related field relevant to utility management. A master’s degree in public or business administration or a closely related discipline is preferred, but not required. The candidate should also possess at least seven years of experience in engineering, operations, and/or business within a multi-utilities organization, including a minimum of five years in a senior management role. Additionally, the candidate’s background should reflect a progressively responsible career path, with increasing supervisory duties and broader organizational responsibilities.

To view the full job description click here.

SALARY RANGE
The salary range for this position is $231,129.60 - $346,694.40 annually.
*Placement within this range is dependent upon the qualifications.*

FANTASTIC BENEFITS PACKAGE! Click here to learn more.

Supplemental Information

The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

For more details visit our Careers Page, by clicking HERE.
Learn more about our Compensation Plan HERE.

Closing Date/Time: 6/30/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$231,129.60 - $346,694.40 Annually