New

Franchise Utility/ROW Specialist

City of Corvallis
$34.44 - $43.81 Hourly
the city of corvallis offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees and eligible dependents.this position is represented by the afscme labor contract.afscme benefits summary
United States, Oregon, Corvallis
May 16, 2025
Position Summary Performs a variety of routine and technical work in the development and administration of utility franchises including solid waste, electrical, natural gas, cable television and telecommunications, using federal, state and local laws, and policies to regulate and manage private uses of local public rights-of-ways. Responsibilities include managing and enforcing existing franchise agreements, developing information for negotiating new or renewed franchise agreements, monitoring local control of rights-of-ways issues and the public's compliance with right-of-way regulations. This position is also responsible for developing, recommending and maintaining energy conservation and recycling policies for City facilities. These tasks are illustrative only and may include other related duties. Full-time 40 hours per week AFSCME-represented position 12-month probationary period All applications are required to include a resume. Must meet all qualifications and requirements as listed in the position description. Essential Functions Coordinates and maintains City franchise utility agreements and related information and provides summary information on these agreements as needed.Monitors the status and accuracy of franchise payments to the City. Acts as the City's primary contact for franchise utility companies for all purposes other than construction permits. Documents and monitors utility right-of-way activities; researches and develops recommendations supporting the most coordinated and efficient utility company public rights-of-way use. Coordinates with other departments to develop and maintain an appropriate right-of-way compensation program through the franchise utility permits. Identifies and documents issues that may affect the City and community relating to franchise utility services and agreements.Develops a framework for negotiations and renewal of franchise agreements. Addresses new franchise utility applications, researches and develops initial franchise proposals for negotiating new franchise agreements. Performs investigations of franchise and right-of-way complaints within the City and obtains compliance with appropriate regulations governing violating conditions.Uses tact and diplomacy to encourage voluntary compliance, and performs follow-up inspections. May issue warnings, correction notices, notices of violation, and Administrative Civil Penalties in cases where compliance is not voluntarily provided. Serves as City liaison to boards, commissions, or other organizations and community groups related to franchise utility activities, services, and organization solid waste or energy conservation.Responds to inquiries from the public, City staff, and others, interpreting and explaining utility franchises, ordinances, policies and procedures pertaining to compliance. Assists City Attorney's Office on franchise utility issues involving potential litigation. Monitors state and federal legislation, regulations and rules related to franchise utility services and local management of public rights-of-ways.Effectively identifies risks to City's franchise programs from new regulations. Provides recommendations and maintains awareness of managed competition issues and opportunities for franchise utility services. Develops written information and recommendations supporting the City's interests. Recommends an energy conservation strategy to reduce the City's consumption of electricity and natural gas, promotes sustainable practices in City operations. Develops and maintains a data base of City consumption of electricity and natural gas and promotes practices resulting in cost savings. Documents actual City cost savings. Performs property management duties for assigned sites such as the microwave communication sites on Mary's Peak, wireless telecommunication sites, and other properties as appropriate.Negotiates leases, monitors tenant activities, solicits new tenants, troubleshoots tenant concerns, and resolves conflicts with adjacent property owners. Oversees Public, Education and Government (PEG) and Institutional Networks (INET) programs that includes procuring equipment, negotiating contracts, and preparing budgets. Conforms with all safety rules and performs work is a safe manner. Delivers excellent customer service to diverse audiences. Responds to customer service requests, questions and complaints.Maintains a positive customer service demeanor and delivers service in a respectful and patient manner. Performs as a member of a team, assisting with development of division goals and objectives and contributes to the achievement of goals and objectives. Maintains effective work relationships. Arrives to work, meetings, and other work-related functions on time and maintains regular job attendance. Complies will all Administrative Policies. Performs work in accordance with Council Policies and Municipal Code sections applicable to position. Operates and drives vehicles and/or equipment safely and legally. Qualifications and Skills Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Energy or Resource Management, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of four years of education, training, and work experience that provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Three years of independent work experience in energy distribution or consumption services, telecommunication and/or cable television services, solid waste collection and recycling/disposal services, or public rights-of-ways management, preferably with a public agency or a franchise utility service company. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to work independently to identify federal, state and local issues and opportunities related to franchise utility services and the control and use of public rights-of-way. Ability to develop written analysis, reports and recommendations for review by City administration, elected officials, local regulatory committees, and various community groups. Ability to work with private companies to encourage and implement changes for the coordinated use of public rights-of-way, conduct energy conservation evaluations for City facilities, and propose commodity purchase agreements to reduce City operating costs. Good oral and written communication skills; ability to develop clear and concise written policy or other information summarizing technical issues to a general audience. Ability to make effective public presentations to varied audiences. Ability to analyze electrical or natural gas consumption records and facility operations with respect to energy conservation opportunities. Ability to use a computer to perform the essential functions of the position. Thorough knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving. Special Requirements Ability to pass a pre-employment background and/or criminal history check Possession of and the ability to maintain a valid Oregon Drivers License. This position will travel occasionally to legislative sessions, conferences and regional franchise utility regulator meetings; and may be required to work evenings and weekends. Demonstrable commitment to sustainability principles in the performance of work. Demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity. The individual shall not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of the individual or others in the workplace. How to Apply Qualified applicants must submit an online application located on the City of Corvallis website (click on "Apply" above). Position is open until filled. Applications must be received by 8:00 AM on Monday June 2, 2025, to be considered with the first review. Applicants are encouraged to include a cover letter with the online application; however, resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed online application. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted/considered. An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer in Compliance with ADA.