Utility Manager

McCormack Baron Companies•,

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Utility Manager leads and oversees the organization’s affordable housing portfolio by monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on utility consumption and expenses. This role ensures the accuracy of utility billing and compliance with utility allowance requirements while identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements across properties. The Utility Manager works closely with property managers, compliance staff, and finance to maintain affordable housing regulatory compliance and drive overall asset value through data-driven insights and cost-saving initiatives while promoting sustainable operations.

Requirements

Strong analytical and quantitative skills with ability to interpret large data sets.
Proficiency in Excel and property management/accounting software (e.g., Fortress, Yardi, RealPage, MRI).
Knowledge of utility billing practices and affordable housing utility allowance methodologies.
Experience managing solar programs and initiatives; specifically feasibility studies, coordinating with regulatory agencies, vendor selection and overall system performance.
Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to communicate complex information in clear, concise ways to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Effective planning and priority setting. Ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines.
Project and team management/leadership skills and experience.
Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment with associates.
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Sustainability, Public Policy, Business, or related field; or equivalent work experience.
5+ years of experience in utility analysis, energy management, affordable housing compliance, or property management preferred.
Familiarity with HUD, LIHTC, or other affordable housing programs strongly desired.

Responsibilities

Track, collect, and analyze utility consumption and cost data across the property portfolio (electricity, water, gas, sewer, trash, etc.).
Monitor utility billing for accuracy - flag variances, anomalies, and coordinate corrections with vendors or property managers. Review funds balances and cost-revenue ratios and identify existing and projected levels of service for use in long-range planning.
Identify trends in usage and implement strategies to reduce consumption and costs.
Own the development and delivery of monthly, quarterly, and annual utility reports for leadership, investors, and regulatory bodies.
Evaluate estimates of revenue from existing sources as well as from alternative sources of revenue.
Anticipates financial and operational problems. Analyzes and recommends alternative utility policies, including debt management issues and financing.
Support capital improvement decisions by providing cost-benefit analyses and ROI modeling for energy-saving initiatives.
Oversee and ensure the preparation, accuracy, and timely updates with the Compliance team of utility allowance schedules in compliance with HUD, LIHTC, and other affordable housing program requirements.
Maintain utility allowance records, ensuring documentation is accurate and audit ready.
Partner with and hold compliance stakeholders accountable for integrating utility data into rent setting, tenant communications, and reporting.
Lead data-driven initiatives supporting energy efficiency and water conservation initiatives.
Direct collaboration with facilities and asset management to evaluate ROI of efficiency projects (e.g., LED lighting, low-flow fixtures, solar, etc.).
Monitor progress toward sustainability goals and benchmarks.
Manage relationships with utility providers, third-party benchmarking services, and consultants.
Oversee contract management related to utility billing, metering, and conservation services.
Communicate clearly with property staff about utility-related questions and training needs.
Identify and lead energy programs and funding initiatives to further facilitate utilizing bill assistance, weatherization, and energy-efficient upgrades.