Director - Vegetation Management

Job Summary

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and location, ranging from $153,000 to $191,000. The Director of Vegetation Management is a leadership role reporting to the VP of Electric Operations. The position is responsible for the strategic oversight and execution of all vegetation management activities across the transmission and distribution systems, including all phases of Transmission, Substation and Distribution vegetation management, execution of the Vegetation Trim Cycle and Reclamation Planning, tracking, budgeting, and reporting of vegetation activities.

The Director will lead cross‑functional teams, manage contractor performance, and serve as a key liaison with regulatory agencies, municipalities, and internal stakeholders.

• Strategic Leadership & Planning:
  Develop and execute a comprehensive vegetation management strategy aligned with corporate safety, reliability, and financial goals. Lead the development and administration of the Line Clearance and Vegetation Management budgets, including O&M and capital expenditures. Integrate vegetation management planning into broader engineering, design, and operational strategies.
• Program Management:
  Provide strategic oversight and direction for all aspects of vegetation management across transmission, substation, and distribution systems, including routine cycle and enhanced trimming programs, hazard tree mitigation, and comprehensive transmission corridor clearance initiatives. Ensure contractor performance meets company standards and regulatory requirements. Monitor and report on program metrics, progress, and compliance with internal and external standards.
• Regulatory Compliance & Stakeholder Engagement:
  Manage compliance with all applicable vegetation‑related regulations and standards. Prepare documentation and testimony for regulatory filings and hearings. Build and maintain relationships with municipal, state, and federal agencies to align vegetation management practices with public expectations and legal requirements.
• Operational Excellence:
  Drive continuous improvement initiatives and foster a culture of innovation and accountability. Utilize operational dashboards and data analytics to inform decision‑making and optimize resource allocation. Coordinate closely with Distribution Operations, Planning & Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to ensure seamless execution of vegetation activities.
• Contractor & Vendor Management:
  Develop and manage performance‑based contracts, including RFPs and work specifications. Foster collaborative relationships with contractors to ensure high‑quality, cost‑effective service delivery.
• Leadership & Talent Development:
  Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team of internal staff and external partners. Set clear performance expectations and ensure alignment with organizational goals. Promote a culture of safety, integrity, and continuous learning.

• Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Environmental Science, Electrical Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in utility vegetation management, with at least 6 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Deep understanding of electric utility operations, vegetation management best practices, and regulatory frameworks (NYISO/FERC).
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and manage large‑scale programs and budgets.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
• Demonstrated experience in regulatory compliance and testimony preparation.
• Proficiency in leveraging technology and data analytics for operational improvement.

• Master’s degree.
• Site experience (specifics omitted).

NY STATE ELECTRIC & GAS CORP

Please note that any applicant who is not a citizen of the country of the vacancy will be subject to compliance with the applicable immigration requirements to legally work in that country.

At Avangrid we provide fair and equal employment and advancement…