(115) Project Manager - Utility Vegetation Management

Opterra Career•Candor, NC

6d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Project Manager for Utility Vegetation Management to oversee herbicide application and right-of-way vegetation control projects throughout the Southeast. The ideal candidate will have a background in utility, powerline, right-of-way, forestry, or vegetation management operations and be comfortable leading spray crews, communicating with customers, and managing project execution across multiple states. This role requires extensive travel during the primary spray season (May through November) throughout South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. During the off-season, the Project Manager will focus on planning, budgeting, customer development, training, scheduling, and preparing crews and equipment for the upcoming season. Bilingual (English/Spanish) candidates are strongly preferred.

Requirements

Required Experience in utility vegetation management, right-of-way maintenance, forestry, herbicide application, or related industries.
Previous leadership or supervisory experience.
Ability to read maps, aerial imagery, and project work plans.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Willingness to travel extensively throughout the Southeast during spray season.
Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (English/Spanish) but not mandatory.
State herbicide applicator licenses.
Utility right-of-way spraying experience.
Experience working with electric utilities or vegetation management contractors.
Knowledge of herbicides, invasive species, and vegetation management practices.
Experience with GIS mapping platforms, GPS navigation, and digital reporting systems.

Responsibilities

Manage utility right-of-way and vegetation management projects from start to finish.
Lead and supervise herbicide application crews operating on powerline, utility, and infrastructure corridors.
Ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and according to contract specifications.
Coordinate manpower, equipment, chemicals, and logistics for multiple projects.
Conduct field inspections and quality control reviews.
Serve as the primary point of contact for utility customers and project stakeholders.
Attend customer meetings and provide project updates.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with utility representatives, contractors, and landowners.
Resolve customer concerns professionally and promptly.
Meet with landowners and property managers regarding treatment activities.
Address property access concerns and answer questions regarding vegetation management programs.
Represent the company professionally in the field and within local communities.
Read and interpret maps, GIS data, work plans, and treatment boundaries.
Complete and review daily application reports, production reports, and safety documentation.
Ensure compliance with all herbicide labels, environmental regulations, and company policies.
Monitor crew adherence to safety standards and operating procedures.
Assist with customer budgeting and project planning.
Develop spray schedules and resource forecasts for the upcoming season.
Participate in hiring, onboarding, and crew training activities.
Support maintenance planning and operational improvements.