(118) Project Manager - Utility Vegetation Management at Opterra Solutions, Inc. in Cookeville, TN

Job description

• 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, Georgia, Tennessee, 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.

Responsibilities

• Operations Management
• 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.
• Customer Relations
• 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.
• Landowner & Public Relations
• 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.
• Documentation & Compliance
• 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.
• Off-Season Planning
• 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.

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.
• 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.

Skills

Preferred

• State herbicide applicator licenses.