Director of Utility Operations
Lakefront Utility Services Inc. (LUSI) is a progressive multi-service utility based in the Town of Cobourg delivering essential electric and water services to surrounding communities we serve. We are committed to reliability safety and cost-effectiveness while continuously embracing innovation to meet the evolving needs of our customers and municipal partners. LUSI leads with a forward-thinking approach leveraging advanced technologies like intelligent grid systems and sustainable energy and water solutions. Our team collaborates closely with municipalities to design operate and maintain critical utility infrastructure with a focus on resiliency and regulatory excellence. At LUSI were not just delivering utility services - were building smarter more connected and future-ready communities. For more information please visit our website at:
We are seeking a strategic and experiencedDirector of Utility Operationsresponsible for overseeing the operations of various utility services including water and role involves providing strategic leadership and management for the Engineering and Operations department participating in the Senior Leadership Team and actively engaging with internal customers to improve Director also plays a key role in the unique multi-utility model at LUSI which involves coordinating projects across different utility services and ensuring the timely and cost-effective completion of these projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership and Management:
- Provides leadership direction and management for the Engineer and Operations department.
- Lead infrastructure planning capital improvement projects and asset management initiatives.
- Collaborate with Senior Leadership Team on utility policy budgeting service delivery improvements and long-term corporate strategies.
- Actively engages with internal customers to understand and improve satisfaction with provided services.
- Operations Oversight
- Oversees the operations of all water and electric systems ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Manages distribution planning production management inventory management and quality control.
- Ensures the safe and reliable delivery of utility services.
- Oversees the maintenance and replacement of capital infrastructure.
- Enforces company policies related to operations.
- Coordinates projects that combine water and electric working collaboratively with Municipalities Developers and Contractors on auxiliary services such as wastewater stormwater fiber optic etc.
- Contributes to the efficient and cost-effective completion of projects.
- Manage relationships with Ministry of Energy Ministry of Environment Measurement Canada etc. coordinating reviews audits & ensuring compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act Occupational Health & Safety Act ESA regulations.
- Lead long-range planning for growth and new developments.
- Promote innovation through AI automation and system optimization.
- Oversee procurement and contract management.
- Lead mentor and evaluate a multidisciplinary team of managers operators and technicians.
- Foster a culture of safety accountability and continuous improvement.
- Stakeholder & Community Engagement
- Act as the primary contact for utility-related inquiries and public communications.
- Build relationships with regulatory agencies contractors and community stakeholders.
- Prepare performance reports and present at board meetings.
- Emergency Preparedness & Response
- Develop and maintain emergency response plans for utility failures and public health threats.
- Coordinate with emergency services and provincial agencies during crises.
- Lead post-incident reviews and implement corrective actions.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelors degree in Engineering (Civil Environmental or Electrical) Public Administration or related field.
- Professional Engineer (.) designation preferred.
- Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in utility operations with 5 years in senior leadership.
- Certification in Water Treatment and/or Distribution an asset.
- Experience managing both water and electrical distribution systems are assets.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of utility infrastructure SCADA systems GIS and asset management.
- Proven leadership communication and crisis management skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects budgets and regulatory compliance.
- Experience working in unionized environments is an asset.
To Apply:
This is a non-union position and salary is commensurable with qualifications and experience. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter with the subject line: Application Director Utility Operations no later than 4:30 p.m. August 29th 2025 to Human Resources at 207 Division Street PO Box 577 Cobourg ON K9A 4L3 or by email to .
Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful applicant must provide a satisfactory criminal background check and three professional references.
Lakefront Utility Services Inc. is committed to equity diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. Accommodations are available upon request throughout the recruitment process.
This is a job posting for a new vacancy.
Required Experience:
Director