Municipal Gas Job Opportunities

Your APGA membership allows you to advertise your system's job openings. Your listing can also be placed in APGA's bi-weekly Public Gas News publication which goes out in printed and electronic copies to our members. The APGA member price for posting a job advertisement in Public Gas News is $100.00 for 100 words or less and 25 cents for each additional word. APGA does not allow non-members to post job advertisements in APGA publications effective March 2015. To view print rates & policies please click here. To post a job, please contact APGA Communications Manager John Powers at jpowers@apga.org or 202 464 2742. 

Note to Employers: When submitting a job ad, applicant is required to give their contact information including name, company, phone, fax and e-mail address and agrees to have their information stored in our database. All job listings must comply with federal guidelines and standards and all companies must be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Listings will be removed within 30 days after application deadline.

CEO - American Public Gas Association

The American Public Gas Association (APGA) is the only not-for-profit trade organization representing America's publicly-owned natural gas utilities. APGA represents the interests of public gas before Congress, federal agencies and other energy-related stakeholders by developing regulatory and legislative policies that further the goals of our members. In addition, APGA organizes meetings, seminars, and workshops with a specific goal to improve the reliability, operational efficiency, and regulatory environment in which public gas systems operate.

APGA’s mission is to be an advocate for municipally owned natural gas distribution systems, and educate and communicate with APGA members to promote safety, awareness, performance and competitiveness. Through APGA, public gas utilities work together to stay reliably informed about new developments in safety, public policy, operations, technology, and the marketplace that could affect the communities and consumers they serve.

APGA is looking for an energetic and inspiring leader to be our President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who understands the “big picture” about our energy industry in a variety of settings. The ideal candidate (1) possesses exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, (2) has a business mindset capable of driving the association towards greater success through creative and effective execution of board approved strategies, policies, and programs, and most importantly (3) can demonstrate an ability to lead and motivate a highly qualified staff who are this association’s most important and valuable resources.

The APGA CEO position requires office time at 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Suite C-4 Washington, DC 20002, and extensive travel time.

If you feel that you meet the qualifications and wish to be considered for this position, please submit a resume with your qualifications and salary requirements to: CEO.Search@apga.org by Monday, April 15, 2019.

Executive Director - Tennessee Gas Association

The Tennessee Gas Association (TGA) is the natural gas state association established in 1962 with 400 members comprised of municipal gas systems, utility districts, gas authorities, private and public gas companies, pipelines, gas marketers, business partners, and housing authorities, representing approximately 10,000 Tennessee employees serving the natural gas industry’s 1.2 million customers and 31,000 miles of distribution line.  TGA’s core values are Promote, Advocate, Collaborate, and Educate for the natural gas industry.

TGA’s current Executive Director (ED) will be retiring end of June 2019; therefore, TGA is seeking a replacement candidate to begin work in May 2019 to allow overlap of duties for learning and a smooth transition.  In this position, a successful ED will display leadership, direction, support, and coordination for TGA, its Board of Directors and Executive Committee, and other Committees according to the current goals, objectives, and bylaws of the association. The ED will be responsible for developing and evaluating programs, policies, methods and procedures regarding the management and organization of the association.  The ED will also be responsible for the management of TGA personnel.  The ED ensures administrative activities for budgeting, committee management and meeting coordination are complete and appropriate. The ED provides written and verbal reports to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors to provide status updates of tasks, projects, and financial position.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable field (i.e., Engineering, Public Relations, Business Administration, or other) or 10 years of equivalent and demonstrated experience
• Five years of related natural gas utility experience
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Must have the ability to work independently in a timely manner
• Must be able to communicate well and develop and manage content for a variety of communication methods including email, newsletters, website, and presentations
• Must be able to represent TGA in a positive, professional manner
• Must have the ability to work cooperatively
• Must have an understanding of the natural gas industry and respond to inquiries in a timely manner
• Must maintain quality and accuracy of work
• Must be able to manage multiple Committees and programs simultaneously and in an organized manner
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license

Physical Demands: Sedentary Work - Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, and / or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body.  Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.  Absent undue hardship, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with known disabilities to perform the essential functions as outlined above.

Travel:  Travel is expected (15-20%) for conferences, utility site visits, off site meetings, etc. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ten years of management level natural gas utility experience
• Master’s degree in a relevant field
• Strong office and financial management skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Office management or supervisory skills
• Strong initiative and attention to detail, along with some type of fact-finding or research experience

Interested applicants should send resumes to resumes@tngas.org by the deadline of March 1.

(Posted 1/7/2019)

Natural Gas Manager - Fountain Inn, SC

We are excited to announce this is opportunity for an experienced Natural Gas Manager who is capable of preserving and enhancing the existing high level of customer service and preparing the City of Fountain Inn Natural Gas Department for the challenges of the future.

Nestled in the foothills of Upstate South Carolina, Fountain Inn is a charming city in the heart of an incredibly scenic state. Only minutes from the mountains and a couple of hours from the coast, Fountain Inn is the ideal location for relocating families, friends and business. We invite you to use the website as your resource to everything Fountain Inn: www.fountaininn.org.

The City Government of Fountain Inn is stable and operates under a Council form of government. Council members are elected to four year staggered terms and there are no term limits. The Mayor is elected at-large by popular vote. The Mayor and six City Council members comprise the governing body. Elections are held in odd-numbered years. The City government is non-partisan. Fountain Inn is a full-service  city that is in good condition  financially as evidenced by a positive audits and a healthy fund balance.

Fountain Inn Natural Gas

Fountain Inn Natural Gas has been serving customers for over 60 years by providing natural gas in a safe and secure environment.

As a municipal enterprise, the Fountain Inn Natural Gas System has flourished and today serves over 8,932 residential, commercial and industrial customers. The system includes approximately 342 miles of natural gas pipeline. 78% of our system is plastic and 22% is steel. We have 20 regulator stations.

We carry many different  gas appliances including Tankless Hot Water Heaters, Gas Fireplaces, Gas Logs, Freestanding Gas Fireplaces, Holland Grills, Holland Patio Heaters and much, much more.

The Position

• Tracks gas commodity  pricing  daily to purchase gas supplies and align with  supplier contracts.  Establishes price triggers for gas purchase when the market meets the desired priced.
• Manages customer contacts and pipeline capacity and supplier contracts. Establishes and maintains relationships with key suppliers.
• Makes decisions regarding possible construction  areas, marketing results, feasibility  calculations and service area extensions.
• Monitors and remains actively involved with new projects offered on the pipeline. Works closely with project coordinators, gas control, customer service and maintenance personnel.
• Maintains detailed records on system costs and updates rate structure analysis yearly.
• Prepares the natural gas budget, including operational, capital outlay, and project funding. Administers the operational, project, gas supply and capacity expenditures.
• Prepares financial and operational reports, including gas sales comparison from previous years.
• Prepares annual reports required by the Office of Pipeline Safety and US Department of Energy.
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities  in accordance with City’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities may include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
• Responds to customer complaints or queries.
• Comply with all safety policies, practices and procedures. Report all unsafe activities to City Administrator and Human Resources.
• Participate in proactive team efforts to achieve departmental and company goals.
• Provide leadership to others through example and sharing of knowledge/skill.

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (B. A.) from four-year college or university in the general sciences, civil or petroleum engineering; 5 to 10 years of work experience as a municipal utility manager/administrator with exposure to the natural gas industry or the management of a natural gas company or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in utility maintenance program management
• Background in the utility industry and operational aspects of natural gas distribution
• Possession or ability to gain possession of a valid South Carolina driver’s license within 30 days.
• This position is considered Essential Personnel and will be required to work during and following natural disasters and emergencies.

Primary knowledge, skills, and abilities include:

• Strong  experience  and  proven  success  in  developing  and  implementing  risk  management  strategies,  portfolio management reports to effectively manage a portfolio for the FOUNTAIN INN NATURAL GAS SYSTEM.
• Strong experience in managing price and volumetric risk for residential, commercial and industrial markets and system portfolios. Must understand the market factors-drivers that affect energy price volatility and load-usage volatility
• Strong experience with daily/monthly load forecasting and the management of the supply vs. demand profile to avoid costly pipeline penalties.
• Must have experience in the Williams Gas Pipeline (Transco) pipeline system and be proficient in the operations of the system including  Cash-out, Operational Flow Orders (OFO), capacity release, 1Line, pipeline restrictions,  expansion projects, et al.
• Work with Developers, Real Estate Brokers and Contractors in a competitive market area to ensure potential opportunities are not over-looked. Strong working  relationship  with  GADC, LCDC, Upstate SC Alliance and other regional Project Managers to stay abreast of current and future projects and expansions in the region.
• Strong awareness of how to manage a Billing Office and Customer Service team
• Knowledge of organizational and department laws, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to communicate and work well verbally and in writing with City officials, staff, the public, and the news media.
• Superior skill in organizing, directing and supervising others.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage priorities and workflow.
• Acute attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and organize projects.
• Proven ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Good judgment with the ability to make timely and sound decisions.
• Creative, flexible, and innovative team player.
• Reviews work schedules, assignments, and rotations for the Operations Technicians.
• Participates in employee hiring process.
• Evaluates operations, maintenance and performance of facility.
• Performs equipment testing, develops action plans to maximize performance and implements improvements.
• Monitors plant performance to ensure adherence to Company and Industry standards and compliance with state and federal laws, regulations and guidelines.
• Prepares weekly and monthly operations reports and others as required.
• Foster dependable  and trusting  relationships  with  Third  Party contractors,  material  suppliers,  and customers  to expedite project quality, cost, and completion times.
• Provide technical, financial, and operational expertise.
• Establish and maintain relationships with South Carolina PSC, DOT, OSHA, EPA, and other pertinent regulatory agencies to remain informed of the status of any/all compliance matters.
• Create, maintain, and insist on a workplace environment within the Gas Utilities group that promotes diversity, safety, fair and equal treatment of employees, open communications and the highest standards of ethical behavior.

• Promote a strong safety and compliance culture correcting unsafe acts or conditions immediately, following established safe methods and systems, ensuring staff are trained to the necessary levels and compliance with legal and quality requirements.

Compensation

The starting annual salary for the Natural Gas Manager for the City of Fountain Inn will be market competitive depending upon the qualifications  and experience of the selected candidate. Participation  in the state retirement  system and a comprehensive benefits package including; health, dental, vision, life insurance will be provided. Reasonable relocation expense reimbursement will be negotiated.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit by email a cover letter, resume, at least five job related references and salary history no later than 5:00 p.m. on March 12, 2019 to: Trey Eubanks, Government Services Manager, Appalachian Council of Governments. Call or email Trey Eubanks with any questions.

Trey Eubanks | Government Services Manager
Appalachian Council of Governments
864.241.4631 teubanks@scacog.org

The City of Fountain Inn is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City of Fountain Inn does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or national origin.

(Posted 2/14/2019)

Corrosion Tech II - Huntville, AL

Huntsville Utilities offers a customer service driven environment, with access to industry-leading technology that supports our employee's work and resources to drive career advancement. Join Us at Huntsville Utilities, where our team is customer service-driven and uniquely focused on one goal: To provide high quality, low cost, safe and reliable electric, natural gas and water service to our customers.

Salary Range/Grade: $4,033.47 Grade 12

Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-Exempt

Benefits: Yes - See Benefits Web Page

Employment Type: Full Time

Department: Gas Operations

Job Statement:

Responsible for troubleshooting any potential interferences within the cathodic protection system.  Installs and repairs corrosion control equipment and material to ensure adequate levels of cathodic protection are being maintained.  Directs Corrosion Tech I & Corrosion Assistant in maintaining and monitoring gas system while minimizing customer inconvenience and maximizing the safety of employees and the public.  Responsible for collecting, recording and maintaining cathodic protection records as mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Office of Pipeline Safety.

Essential Duties:

1. Plans, schedules, direct, inspects and monitor the work of the Corrosion Control Assistant and Corrosion Technician I.
2. Coordinates and directs activities of construction and/or contract crews that install and monitor cathodic protection systems.
3. Maintains vehicles, equipment and tools.
4. Provide training for the Corrosion Control Assistant to ensure compliance with DOT Part192.
5. Instructs Gas Apprenticeship classes on corrosion control, as needed.
6. Makes recommendations to Corrosion Supervisor regarding replacement or abandonment of pipe in the system based on maintenance history and condition as determined by field-testing and inspections.
7. Recommends and assists with the installation of flange or pipe insulators to isolate sections of pipe protected by rectifier or anode systems.
8. Utilizes electronic devices and technical skills to locate underground electrical shorts in the cathodic protection system.
9. Troubleshoots and maintains rectifier and galvanic anode systems.
10. Installs sacrificial anodes on unprotected or inadequately protected pipelines.
11. Gathers and interprets technical information including obtaining rectifier and test station readings.
12. Assists with design and installation of cathodic protection system improvements.
13. Assists DOT personnel during onsite audits and makes records available for inspection.
14. Prepares monthly activity report.
15. Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education/Training/Certifications:  High School graduate or equivalent; Cathodic Protection 1 Certification from National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) or equivalent training preferred or ability to obtain certification/training within 6 months required.

Experience/Skills:  Minimum of 2 years in the cathodic protection field is required. 

Equipment:  Voltmeter, amp meter, resistivity meter, cathodic protection devices, pipeline locators.  Utilize computer to access mapping applications (such as GT Viewer), performs data entry and writes reports in MS Word & Excel), calculator.

Physical Demands/Environmental Conditions:  Regular exposure to all types of weather.  Some sedentary activity in office environment. 

Other:  Must be able to communicate effectively, orally or in writing. Must have good interpersonal skills.  Current driver’s license, ability to obtain Class A CDL within one year of hire date, and a clean driving record.  Subject to “on-call” duty.

Job Specific Competencies:

• Testing and Troubleshooting
• Displaying Technical Expertise
• Managing Time
• Following Policies and Procedures  

 Huntsville Utilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the E-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

To apply online, please visit our web site

(Posted 2/12/2019)

Natural Gas Engineer - Knoxville, TN

Work Description: This position works with a team of engineers, project coordinators, and inspectors responsible for the overall planning, oversight, and management of KUB natural gas assets including distribution mains and services, gate and regulator stations, large meter sets, and repairs. This position consists of designing pipeline projects; preparing and reviewing construction plans, bid documents, and cost estimates; managing all phases of capital improvements and maintenance programs; coordinating work with construction crews, customers, permitting agencies, contractors, and KUB departments; developing and/or updating KUB standards and specifications for installation and repair work; and training of KUB employees as needed. This position requires the understanding and assurance of compliance with applicable sections of 49 Code of Federal Regulations. In addition, this position provides engineering design and technical support with tasks including, but not limited to the following: advising KUB field inspectors and construction and maintenance crews on pipeline construction; providing engineering solutions, technical support, and on-call emergency response during dig-ins, pipeline repairs, and other emergency response events; researching and field-verifying historical installation records regarding the natural gas system to ensure accurate records; and reviewing city and state construction projects and plans submitted by developers for impacts to KUB natural gas system. Responsibilities include executing all project phases including identifying the problem, developing a job scope, evaluating alternatives, pipeline routing, materials procurement, easement review, engineering design, cost estimating, construction management, and record keeping. Position could also include planning for expansion of KUB's natural gas system, for pipeline replacement projects; development of construction and maintenance standards, specifications, and procedures; and financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting. Highly qualified candidates shall have the technical background and work experience that provides a comprehensive understanding of natural gas distribution design and construction methods, as well as industry best practices for installing natural gas facilities. May require after hours response in emergency situations. Note: For more specific information regarding this position, please contact Human Resources.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Civil, or Metallurgical Engineering, or Engineering degree in another discipline, from a four- year ABET-accredited college or university
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to communicate policies, procedures, and objectives effectively
• Ability to work well in team environment in both office and field
• General knowledge of or ability to learn Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, PowerPoint, ESRI ArcMap, and computer-aided drafting programs, such as MicroStation or AutoCAD
• Valid driver’s license

Physical Demands: Works primarily in an office setting, but regular field visits and activities are required. These field visits may include: emergency response activities and support beyond normal business hours, heavy lifting or strenuous work and mobility over rough terrain. Requires bending, stooping, lifting, and working in awkward and strenuous positions at times. Occasionally requires above normal mental and visual alertness. Note: The physical demands described above are intended to relate the approximate physical demands of the classification. Physical demands for a specific position within this classification may vary and/ or exceed those demands described above. Additional information regarding specific positions is available in Human Resources.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current registration as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer in either Mechanical or Civil Engineering in the state of Tennessee or the ability to obtain certification within one (1) year
• Five (5) years of experience in engineering, planning, project management, operations, and/or construction of natural gas distribution mains, services, meters, and stations
• Prior experience leading, supervising, or inspecting field construction crews in gas construction
• Thorough knowledge of code requirements of 49 CFR Part 192 and the Tennessee Public Utility Commission and ability to learn KUB Gas Standards and Specifications and Standard Operating Procedures
• Strong technical writing skills

For more information, please apply online.

(Posted 1/18/2019)

Natural Gas Program Manager - Knoxville, TN

Work Description: Performs program management and data analysis to ensure utility system integrity and compliance with federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations related to natural gas distribution system. Responsibilities include developing and executing all phases of program management including: initiation, scoping, planning, work performance, QA/QC activities, and evaluation for continuous improvement. Examples of natural gas distribution programs include leak survey, patrolling, valves, and cathodic protection. Provides or coordinates training on any resulting process change and/or for communication of requirements. Provides technical assistance to other employees, customers, consultants, and contractors. May include researching and field-verifying historical installation and maintenance records regarding the natural gas system to ensure accurate records. Works closely with system planners, construction, and maintenance departments. Works with various stakeholders to develop new or to enhance existing work processes and programs. Responsible for the development and revision of standards, specifications, and standard operating procedures; and financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting. Works on special projects and assignments as required. May participate with other cross-functional teams within KUB, occasionally assuming a leadership role to address specific project goals and objectives. Highly qualified candidates shall possess an understanding of compliance with applicable sections of 49 Code of Federal Regulations. May require after hours response for emergency situations. Note: For more specific information regarding this position, please contact Human Resources.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Data Analytics, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Logistics, or closely related field

• Proficiency with PC skills, including MS Office products (i.e., Word, Excel, Access, Visio)

• Strong interpersonal and communication (written and oral) skills to communicate policies, procedures, and objectives effectively

• Strong analytical and project management skills

• Ability to work independently on projects in a timely manner

• Valid driver's license

Physical Demands: Works primarily in an office setting, but field visits and field activities may be required. These field visits may include: emergency response activities and support beyond normal business hours, heavy lifting or strenuous work and mobility over rough terrain. Requires bending, stooping, lifting, and working in awkward and strenuous positions at times. Occasionally requires above normal mental and visual alertness.

Note: The physical demands described above are intended to relate the approximate physical demands of the classification. Physical demands for a specific position within this classification may vary and / or exceed those demands described above. Additional information regarding specific positions is available in Human Resources. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Data Analytics, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Logistics, or related field

• Strong computer skills including general database knowledge (including SQL), ESRI GIS, IBM Maximo Asset Management, and customer information systems experience

• Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in utility maintenance program management

• Background in the utility industry and operational aspects of natural gas distribution

• Knowledge of Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Parts 192

• Ability to direct the work of others

For more information, please apply online.

(Posted 1/18/2019)