Electric Distribution Supervisor

  • Harvard
  • Cambridge, Massachusetts
  • Full Time

Engineering & Utilities (E&U) operates and manages Harvards energy supplies, district energy plants, and utility infrastructures on the Cambridge/Allston campuses, as well as a 24/7 facilities-related call, alarm monitoring, and dispatch center, and provides engineering and technical services.

This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation and supervision of the Universitys medium and low voltage electric distribution system and the nine associated primary switching stations. This includes maintenance and operations, safety, performance, contracting, and environmental compliance. This position also participates in initiatives to strengthen institutional collaboration and efficiency, and provides support for special projects.

Position Description:
  • Directly responsible for the operations, maintenance, safety, environmental compliance and desired operational performance associated with E&Fs underground medium voltage microgrid (13,800 volt) and electric distribution infrastructure as well as associated low voltage equipment. Total scope includes 9 switching stations interconnected with local utility, over 300 underground electric manholes, and over 270 individually metered delivery locations to campus buildings and vaults.
  • Directly supervises utility distribution staff (unionized trade workforce). Provides leadership to and supervision of all assigned staff; responsible for ongoing training, mentoring, hiring, and development planning for staff, in a union environment. Supervises to and ensures compliance with union contracts, University procedures and policies, and regulations.
  • Responsible and accountable for the regulatory compliance of the electric distribution system and the Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure program regarding liquid transformers as well as compliance with any internal policies, procedures, or initiatives/directives. Directly responsible for managing all compliance issues (federal, state, local, other).
  • Responsible for participation in emergency management and response (e.g. planning, training, simulation, activation, and actual response), including advanced training and drills as required. Responsible for on-the-job training of staff in safety and environmental practices and procedures necessary for job performance.
  • Responsible for managing unscheduled, emergency repairs to or restoration of university owned electric systems, and managing outside contractors to ensure safe and proper coordination of daily operations, maintenance, and construction activities.
  • Ensures workforce compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations (e.g. environmental, workplace safety, OSHA, ADA requirements, etc.).
  • Partners with others across Campus Services groups, customers, and the University community at large to achieve optimal delivery of E&U services and efficient use of resources. Demonstrates and promotes the mission, vision, and values of the organization; providing stewardship, strategies, and services that create an excellent customer experience. Acts in the Universitys best interest at all times. As a Harvard University representative, exhibits appropriate professional conduct at all times such that harmonious business relationships are developed and maintained.
  • Oversee and monitor service provider/vendor performance under all operating agreements or contracts and ensure compliance with all contractual provisions of such service/operating agreements or contracts. Notify service providers/vendors immediately upon discovery of any contractual shortcomings and develop and execute corrective action plan.
  • Utilizes the Campus Services asset management system as a management tool to monitor and manage maintenance work and operational tasks; and to generate automated reports. Coordinates the development and maintenance of an accurate and detailed inventory of all physical assets, including energy and utility distribution infrastructure and production. Responsible for the proper and effective utilization of this system.
  • Perform special assignments/projects as directed. Participates in planning, design and construction processes associated with capital projects and is responsible for integration of completed projects into plant operations.
  • Leads and/or provides support for special projects (short and long-range), initiatives, and tasks as assigned.
Basic Qualifictations:

  • Must have at least ten years experience in electric operations and maintenance as well as progressive supervisory experience associated with an industrial/campus/utility environment.
  • In-depth knowledge of and direct experience in electric distribution facilities (including code requirements, testing standards, regulatory requirements, and environmental compliance) required.
  • Must have strong organizational, interpersonal, and management skills.
  • Must have experience working in a customer-oriented business, the ability to work well as a team member, and the ability to communicate effectively in both verbally and in writing.


Additional Qualifications and Skills

Technology Skills Required: Must have computer skills including word-processing, electronic mail, database, and spreadsheet. Required to utilize management information systems and asset/work management systems (Maximo).

Driver Designation: Valid State drivers license required. Driving history must meet University Campus Services standards. Must provide his/her personal vehicle to travel on and off campus.

Special Requirements: May be required to work emergency coverage (nights, weekend, etc.) as needed.

Job ID: 478722822
Originally Posted on: 5/28/2025

Want to find more Construction opportunities?

Check out the 173,237 verified Construction jobs on iHireConstruction