General Manager

Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1

The Board of Commissioners of Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1 (Jefferson PUD) headquartered in Port Townsend, WA seeks a community-focused utility leader with outstanding communication skills, proven strategic leadership ability, an established track record of developing and empowering employees and a solid grasp of finances to serve as our next General Manager. The Jefferson PUD Board has retained NRECA Executive Search to facilitate the GM search process.

About Jefferson County PUD

Jefferson County PUD No. 1 is a community-owned utility that serves residents and businesses in east Jefferson County on the Olympic Peninsula.  After a positive public vote in 2008, the utility negotiated the purchase of Puget Sound Energy’s (PSE) electrical assets in 2010 and took over electric service for approximately 20,000 customers in 2013 from PSE, an investor-owned utility. Since then, it has been the sole electric provider for most of Jefferson County. Jefferson PUD also operates multiple small water systems serving around 5,000 customers and two community septic systems in the county.

This summer, the PUD will begin operation of the newly built tri-area sewer treatment plant owned and constructed by Jefferson County.   In addition, given the county’s geography and need for connectivity, the PUD, in recent years, successfully applied for and received over $60 million in state and federal funding and is actively working to expand access to high-speed broadband, especially in underserved rural areas.

Jefferson PUD currently employs 78 individuals in a variety of roles, including line workers, water distribution managers, administrative support staff, customer service representatives, accountants, engineers and more.

Jefferson PUD anticipates operating revenue of $54.7 million for 2025 and has an additional $20 million in grant funding for Broadband.   Also, Jefferson PUD is in the process of submitting a $60 million work plan to RUS to upgrade electrical infrastructure and enhance system reliability.

The General Manager, acting as the Chief Executive Officer of Jefferson PUD, reports to a 3-member Board of Commissioners and is entrusted with leading the utility in a way that supports both its employees and its customers.  

The Ideal Candidate

Leadership Competencies

• Exceptional communication skills, both formally and informally: Listens, relates and communicates in a manner that is effective and supports mutual understanding
• Ability to motivate and positively influence others: Persuades and motivates others towards an outcome aligned with the organization’s mission, vision, and values
• Relationship and teambuilding experience: Creates and fosters constructive working relationships and cohesive teams
• Ability to Lead Change and Manage Risk: Identifies and actively manages change and risk throughout the organization
• Vision and Strategic Orientation: Takes a comprehensive, long-term view, that focuses on the future needs of the organization and its customers
• Analytical Thinking and Decision Making: Thinks systematically, conceptually, and analytically to determine effective solutions that will enable the utility to achieve desired goals
• Process Management: Develops and monitors processes and organizes resources to achieve desired results
• Industry Knowledge and Leadership: Has extensive knowledge of the utility industry and uses this knowledge to guide the future direction of the organization
• Understanding of Financial Issues: Has an excellent understanding of the key financial opportunities and risks entailed in operating a public utility as well as intimate familiarity with the budgeting process
• Utility understanding: Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the rapidly changing landscape and issues of the electric, broadband, water and/or wastewater utility operations in the Pacific Northwest

Experience and Expertise

• Bachelor’s degree in business or public administration, engineering, finance or similar relevant field is strongly preferred
• An MBA or other advanced degree is highly desirable
• At least five (5) years of progressive leadership is required
• At least seven (7) years of utility experience is required, preferably with electric utilities
• Completion of an advanced Leadership Development program is preferred
• An equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the job will be considered in lieu of a degree
• An understanding and identification with public power values will set you apart as a candidate

Our Location

Nestled on Washington’s stunning Olympic Peninsula, Jefferson County offers an exceptional quality of life surrounded by natural beauty. With easy access to the Olympic National Park, Hood Canal, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, kayaking, sailing, cycling and exploring scenic hiking trails. The area is internationally known for Port Townsend, an authentic Victorian seaport framed by both the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.  Port Townsend supports a vibrant local culture, thriving arts scene, community theater, farmers markets, two boatbuilding schools and a variety of community events, all within a tranquil, picturesque setting.  Port Townsend also benefits from being in the Olympic rain shadow, resulting in half the annual rainfall of the greater Seattle area.

Jefferson County boasts a strong sense of community, a commitment to sustainability, and a slower pace of life that’s ideal for those seeking balance and a deeper connection to nature. With mild weather, low crime, and a supportive, creative environment, it’s an inspiring place to live, work, and thrive—perfect for candidates looking to make an impact while enjoying a high quality of life. 

The Board will require that the new General Manager to live in Jefferson, Clallam or Kitsap counties.   

Benefits

Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes family medical, dental, and vision coverage, with the PUD covering the full monthly premium—regardless of the number of enrolled dependents. Additional benefits include a Health Reimbursement Account with monthly PUD contributions of $75, 11 paid holidays, and Paid Time Off starting at 20 days per year. The PUD also offers limited matching of 457(b) deferred compensation contributions up to 4.5% and participation in the Washington State Public Employees Retirement Plan.

This position offers a very competitive salary, ranging from $275,000 to $375,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

Public Utility District No. 1 of Jefferson County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.
Review the full equal opportunity information statement.  Learn more about Jefferson County PUD at https://www.jeffpud.org/

How to apply

If interested, please apply at https://nreca.applytojob.com/apply/96xw6nsPOx/Jefferson-County-PUD-General-Manager with the following: 1) Cover letter, 2) resume and 3) contact information (including emails) for 3 professional references. Applications must be received by May 5, 2025.

If you have any questions, please contact Leigh Taylor, NRECA Executive Search, at leigh.taylor@nreca.coop. All replies are confidential.

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