Job Summary:  This position is responsible for assisting in directing the city’s natural gas utility operations. 

Major Duties:    Assists the Director in providing oversight and resources necessary to maintain a viable natural gas distribution system in the service area with emphasis on safety and the protection of life, property, and the operational integrity of the system.  Assists in evaluating the needs of the gas distribution system in conjunction with city governance expectations, operational needs and requirements, customer use and rate considerations, and project growth forecasts to assist in the development of a budget and operating plan. Oversees assigned recordkeeping to ensure compliance the Department of Transportation Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations/Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, the Alabama Public Service Commission Office of Pipeline Safety, the Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board, and Internal Code Conference rules, regulations, codes, and guidelines.  Assists in developing gas supply and delivery procurement plans to purchase gas supply packages and interstate pipeline transportation and storage services.  Assists with hiring, training, scheduling, assignment, supervision, evaluation, and discipline of department personnel.  Coordinates the purchase of equipment, materials, and supplies to meet operational needs and project work projects.  Assists in the review and adjustment of customer rates in a manner consistent with city and budget expectations and with adopted rate schedules.  Assists state, regional, and local economic development agencies and community organizations in recruiting new industry and commercial businesses to the service area.  Participates in natural gas industry associations and organizations to keep apprised of changes or developments in gas supply sources, pipeline operations and tariff filings, and new or proposed laws or regulations that could affect operations and gas supply delivery to the city.  Coordinates and participates in an efficient and timely response to natural gas emergencies; directs activities of all utility and emergency personnel during natural gas emergencies until relieved by Director; ensures that all possible measures are taken to protect the safety and welfare of employees and the public; coordinates the prompt restoration of services to customers; ensures that prepares proper notifications and reports; coordinates with Director and department personnel to supply accurate information to the news media.  Assists the Director in qualifying personnel under the Operator Qualification Training rule for gas pipeline safety; coordinates training for department personnel that complies with all federal and state regulations; guides, advises, and trains employees of gas system operations, including departmental and state safety rules and regulations.  Performs related duties. 

Minimum Qualifications:  18 year or older.  High School Diploma, GED and/or equivalent work experience.  Valid Alabama Driver’s license.  Baccalaureate degree in a course of study related to the occupational field.  Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the diverse objectives and functions of the subunits in the division/department in order to direct and coordinate work within the division/department, usually interpreted to require three to five years of related experience.  

Knowledge Required By The Position:   Knowledge of US Department of Transportation Title 49 Code of Federal regulations parts 191 and 192.  Knowledge of city policies and procedures including utility rate ordinances.  Knowledge of interstate pipeline tariffs related to transportation and storage services.  Knowledge of gas supply sources and purchase agreement terms and conditions.  Knowledge of scientific gas laws related to pressure, temperature, volume, and the composition of nature gas. Knowledge of Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board guidelines.  Knowledge of ICC building codes and standards for the initiation of gas services. Knowledge of permitting requirements and personnel management principles.  Knowledge of budget management principles.  Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.  Skill in the training and supervision of personnel.  Skill in problem solving and in prioritizing/planning.   Skill in interpersonal relations.   Skill in oral and written communication. 

Complexity/Scope Of Work:  The work consists of varied management and supervisory duties. Strict regulations contribute to the complexity of the position.  The purpose of this position is to assist in directing the operations of the city’s natural gas utility. Success in this position ensures the provision of safe and reliable natural gas utility services to the general public. 

Physical Demands/ Work Environment:   The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk/table or while intermittently sitting, standing, walking, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light objects and utilizes the sense of smell.  Physical strength, ability, and mobility to perform all essential job functions with or without accommodation.  Must be willing to non-standard work hours, holidays, shifts, and weekends as necessary.   Must be willing to be on-call.