Operations Manager, Permitting

Branch: GasAffiliation: Management & ExemptEmployment Status: Full-Time RegularExpected Hiring Range: $126,100.00 to $148,300.00Short-term Incentive Eligible: YesWorkplace Flexibility: No Posting End Date: December 19, 2025 As the province’s largest energy provider with more than 100 years of knowledge and experience, we proudly deliver renewable energy, natural gas, electricity and propane to 1.3 million customers.  We're actively seeking new talent to join our mission of delivering a stronger energy future in B.C. As one of BC's Top Employers with a diverse team of over 2,800 employees, we are committed to a safe and inclusive culture where each of us can connect, belong, and grow. Join us, and together, let's shape a brighter future for B.C.Position OverviewReporting to the Chief Engineer - Transmission, this position is accountable for overseeing all activities related to permitting, compliance, and enforcement for works occurring near high-pressure natural gas pipelines within or outside of designated rights-of-way.This role ensures regulatory adherence, operational safety, and protection of pipeline integrity by managing permitting processes, supervising inspection teams, and addressing unauthorized activities and encroachments.In this role, you will:Lead and manage a team responsible for receiving, reviewing, evaluating, approving and issuing permits for activities conducted near high-pressure natural gas pipelines, both within and outside dedicated rights-of-wayEnsure all permits comply with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and internal policies and proceduresContinuously improve permitting processes and maintain accurate and up-to-date documentationLead a team of supervisors responsible for inspections across the province that are tasked with monitoring permitted activities to ensure compliance with permit conditionsEstablish and implement inspection protocols and reporting systems to track compliance and identify risksManage personnel tasked with identifying and addressing unauthorized activities near pipelinesManage resolution of encroachments built within rights-of-way without authorization, including enforcement actions and remediation plansCoordinate with legal, regulatory and land management teams to ensure timely and effective resolution to un-authorized activities and encroachmentsServe as the primary liaison with third-party contractors, property owners, municipalities and regulatory agencies (such as WorkSafe BC, Technical Safety BC, BC Energy Regulator) regarding permitting and compliance mattersMonitor and report on compliance trends, unauthorized activity trends, and encroachment casesLiaise with internal stakeholders such as Engineering Services, Lands, Legal, Energy Solutions etc. for matters related to permitting, inspections and encroachmentsEstablish a relationship with peers in the industry to stay up to date on latest trends and learnings related to permitting and complianceAssist with vegetation management program, as requiredRequirements:Bachelor’s degree or Diploma of Technology in a related discipline from a recognized institutionCertified Member of the Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BC or an equivalent professional designation considered an assetMinimum of 8 years of relevant experience in a leadership capacity, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experienceExceptional communication, negotiation, conflict resolution, de-escalation and problem-solving skillsSkilled in making sound decisions under pressure and within tight timelines, while safeguarding the company’s operational, regulatory, and financial interestsProven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including property owners, contractors, municipalities, crown corporations, and regulatory agenciesStrong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint and ExcelAbility to travel throughout the province as required by operational needsValid Class 5 BC driver’s license is requiredKnowledge of high-pressure natural gas pipeline systems considered an assetMay be required to participate in on-call programWhat it takes:Knowledge of the following:Budget concept and principlesRegulatory framework, requirements, codes and business modelSafety management, processes and proceduresProject management procedures and practicesHuman resource policies and procedures including matters related to labor relations, recruitment and performance managementAnd, demonstrated ability to:Provide effective leadership and guidance to staffRespond to emergencies and co-ordinate activities under stressful situationsEffectively manage projects/programs and related costsCommunicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with internal and external stakeholdersManage competing priorities and demanding work schedulesApply conflict resolution skillsYou will be accountable for:Justification and development of operating budgetsTracking and reporting costs against planned expendituresTracking and reporting on activities against plansEnsuring team performance in the execution of assigned activitiesIn this role, you will have the option to participate in a flexible work program, enabling you to work from an approved flex location in British Columbia up to 85 days a year (equivalent to approximately two days a week), subject to business or operational needs. Our engaging workplace offers a wide range of challenging opportunities, while being safe, inclusive, and diverse. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, while supporting life-long career development. We also encourage volunteerism and nourish the need to give back to your community. To learn more about the recruitment process with FortisBC, please visit the You’re Applying. What now? page for additional information.  FortisBC acknowledges and respects Indigenous Peoples in Canada, on whose Traditional Territories we all live and work. FortisBC is committed to Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and is guided by our Statement of Indigenous Principles.#LI-Hybrid