Utility Distribution Project Manager I

CARIAN•Morristown, NJ

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

CARIAN is seeking a Distribution Project Manager to support a long-term electric distribution capital program for a major utility client in New Jersey. This role is responsible for managing multiple construction projects from initiation through closeout, with accountability for scope, schedule, cost, and coordination with utility stakeholders, engineering teams, and construction contractors. The projects include electric distribution circuit rebuilds, pole replacements, reclosers, URD work, line upgrades, switches, and customer connections; substation terminal upgrades, breakers, relays, and equipment replacements (4.8kV–34.5kV); utility communications projects, including RTUs and network equipment; and new customer service connections and generator interconnections. Individual project budgets typically range from approximately $50K to $5M.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
Minimum of 4-8 years of electric distribution or substation construction project management experience
Demonstrated experience managing project cost, schedule, and contractor performance
Working knowledge of substations, distribution systems, or utility communications infrastructure
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to client project sites

Nice To Haves

PMP certification preferred

Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of 10–20 electric distribution and substation projects from inception through completion
Review and validate project scopes and develop work plans with engineering and utility stakeholders
Coordinate outage requests and sequenced construction plans with subject matter experts and contractor partners
Support material and equipment procurement in coordination with engineering teams
Coordinate environmental and non-environmental permitting reviews and submissions
Develop construction RFP packages, including scopes of work, schedules, and permitting documentation
Evaluate contractor bids and support award recommendations to the utility client
Facilitate pre-construction meetings and ongoing project progress meetings
Drive construction progress, frequently supporting work on-site
Oversee pre-energization activities and project closeout
Maintain strong working relationships with construction teams through regular site visits and communication
Coordinate with schedulers to develop and maintain detailed Primavera P6 project schedules
Maintain project budgets, monthly forecasts, and accrual tracking
Utilize client systems for financial reporting, contract management, and project documentation
Report regularly on schedule, cost, safety, procurement, environmental, and design-related issues
Maintain clear communication between the field, project office, and utility stakeholders