Project Manager - Utilities (Distribution Projects)

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Location: Washington, DC or Maryland (Hybrid – 3 Days/Week On-Site)

Experience Level: 8+ years

About Us

CARIAN is a purpose-driven, women-owned consulting and advisory firm exclusively focused on the utilities and energy sector. We partner with leading electric utilities to deliver critical capital programs that shape a more resilient and sustainable energy future.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Project Manager with deep experience in electric utility distribution to support a portfolio of outside plant (OP) capital projects across the Washington, DC and Maryland region. This role will lead day-to-day project execution, working closely with utility stakeholders, engineers, contractors, and field teams to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, exceptional coordination skills, and a track record of driving results in complex utility environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple OP distribution projects from planning through closeout
• Oversee execution of underground and overhead distribution work, including constructability reviews, field coordination, permitting, and contractor oversight
• Develop and manage scopes, budgets, and schedules in alignment with client requirements
• Serve as the primary liaison between client departments, contractors, suppliers, and permitting authorities to keep all parties aligned
• Coordinate across engineering, procurement, and construction management functions
• Track and report project performance, risks, and milestones to both client and internal leadership
• Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance standards
• Support outage planning, customer notifications, and site readiness for construction activities

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of experience in electric utility project management, with a focus on distribution and outside plant projects
• Demonstrated success delivering projects involving underground and/or overhead infrastructure
• Strong understanding of utility standards, construction sequencing, and permitting processes
• Proven ability to build client confidence through credibility, responsiveness, and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset
• Comfortable managing competing priorities and making sound decisions under tight deadlines and evolving project conditions
• Proficient in project tracking tools such as Microsoft Project, P6, and utility reporting systems
• PMP certification required
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred

Why CARIAN?

• Purpose-driven work – Help deliver infrastructure that powers communities
• Industry reputation – Trusted by leading utilities for our reliability and results
• Career growth – Opportunities to lead major programs and mentor high-performing teams
• Collaborative culture – Join a team that values delivery excellence and long-term relationships
• Competitive total rewards – Strong compensation, full benefits, 401(k) match, and meaningful work

CARIAN takes pride in being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, citizenship, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any legally protected class.

As a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise, CARIAN is committed to providing employment opportunities to women, veterans, and underrepresented minorities.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Associate

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Project Management, Consulting, and Engineering

• Industries

  Business Consulting and Services, Engineering Services, and Utilities

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at The CARIAN Group by 2x

Inferred from the description for this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Disability insurance

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