Iowa Utilities Commission
This is a non-merit position. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section.
Utility Administrator 1 - Electric
About Us:
The Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) is a public agency dedicated to promoting transparency, accessibility, and accountability in utility regulation. Our work ensures Iowans are informed and engaged in the regulatory processes that affect their daily lives. Through effective communication, we build trust with the public, foster meaningful relationships with stakeholders, and support informed decision-making at every level. As a member of our team, you’ll help bring clarity and connection to complex topics that impact communities across the state.
What You’ll Do:
As the Manager of the Electric Safety & Engineering bureau, you’ll lead the oversight and administration of Iowa’s electric safety inspections and transmission franchise programs. You will supervise inspectors and engineers, manage program budgets, oversee regulatory compliance, and coordinate federal and state initiatives related to electric safety. Key responsibilities include:
Supervising and evaluating staff performance, recommending personnel actions, and ensuring compliance with agency policies and procedures.
Reviewing and approving travel requests, timesheets, and performance documentation; and managing staff training and professional development.
Assigning inspection schedules and franchise review responsibilities, monitoring staff performance and inspection outcomes, and ensuring alignment with federal and state requirements.
Leading or overseeing investigations of electrical accidents, compliance enforcement actions, and resolution of complex program issues.
Administering the electric franchising program, including reviewing petitions, technical assessments, and objections, and participating in hearings.
Communicating with external parties with regard to the bureau’s responsibilities in order to create an effective and collaborative regulatory environment
Assisting with rulemaking and legislative initiatives and preparing comments, drafting technical documents, and representing the agency in public and industry forums.
Supporting broader agency administrative needs and participating in internal planning, cross-functional teams, and performance review efforts.
Emergency Management Coordination: Coordinating the IUC’s emergency management programs.
This includes staffing the State Emergency Operations Center (DEOC) during emergencies, coordinating state and public planning exercises, and developing internal procedures on emergency management processes and exercises.
Energy Assurance Plan: Coordinating the Iowa Energy Assurance Plan, including organizing and updating the plan, communicating among involved state agencies, and continual strategic assessments.
Continuity Planning: Maintaining the IUC’s COOP-COG (Continuity of Operations/Continuity of Government) plan and recommending solutions to issues in emergency management coordination.
Emergency Communications Support: Assisting the Communications director, Legislative liaison, and IUC Board Chair on all communications regarding emergency management, including print, web, and social media.
Who We’re Looking For:
We’re seeking a strategic, detail-oriented professional with knowledge of electrical safety regulations and exceptional leadership skills. You are adept at balancing administrative duties with technical oversight and can navigate complex regulatory environments with confidence and integrity. You’re comfortable supervising technical teams, guiding policy implementation, and engaging with stakeholders from the public to federal partners.
Your Competencies:
Leadership & Supervision: Proven experience managing technical teams, conducting supervisory administrative duties, and fostering professional development.
Regulatory Expertise: In-depth knowledge of state and federal electrical safety regulations, permit processes, and compliance standards.
Analytical Thinking: Ability to evaluate technical reports, identify deficiencies, recommend enforcement actions, and oversee corrective measures.
Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal skills for preparing reports, presenting to stakeholders and participating in hearings and public forums.
Project & Budget Management: Skilled in developing and monitoring program budgets, tracking expenses, and conducting resource planning.
Intergovernmental Coordination: Experience working with federal programs, applying for grants, and participating in national initiatives or rulemaking processes.
Adaptability: Comfortable working on cross-agency initiatives, providing support to other bureaus, and adjusting priorities as agency needs evolve.
We Value You:
At the State of Iowa, we are committed to your well-being. As a valued team member, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Paid Time Off: Enjoy vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave with no limits on sick leave accrual.
Great Benefits: Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Retirement Plan: IPERS retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan.
Flexibility: Flexible spending accounts (medical and dependent care).
Life Insurance: Free life insurance.
Support: Employee Assistance Program and Employee Discount Programs.
To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage.
Why Join Us:
At the Iowa Utilities Commission, you’ll find more than just a job — you’ll find a mission-driven career that makes a difference. We foster a supportive and innovative work environment where your contributions directly benefit Iowa communities and promote a sustainable energy future.
Don’t miss this chance to shape the energy future of Iowa — review the job qualifications and apply now!
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Operations Research, Computer Science, Statistics, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and/or Electrical Engineering, Business Management, Education, Public Relations, Journalism or Mass Communications, and five years of full-time complex analytical experience in the above disciplines which include at least one year of experience in developing and directing programs, projects or policy development;
Incumbents in many of these positions will be required to travel and stay out overnight. Incumbents will be required to make arrangements on their own regarding transportation to and from assigned work areas. Some out of state travel may be required as assigned by the agency of employment. Selected positions may require incumbents to provide their own means of transportation in order to conduct state business.