Rolla Municipal Utilities (RMU) is seeking its next General Manager - a strategic and people-oriented leader with the ability to guide a strong public utility into its next chapter. If you are someone who values strong working relationships, has technical expertise in utility management, and brings practical, solution-oriented leadership to complex challenges, we encourage you to consider joining the RMU team.

About RMU

Rolla Municipal Utilities is the community-owned electric and water utility serving the City of Rolla, Missouri. Backed by a stable financial foundation, a skilled and dedicated staff, and strong public support, RMU has built a well-earned reputation for reliability, accountability, and hometown service.

RMU currently serves approximately 9,600 electric meters and 7,900 water meters. With a ISO Class 1 rated water system and an American Public Power Association RP3 designated electric system, RMU maintains nearly 160 miles of water main, and is responsible for 35MW of local generation and 180 Miles of 4kV, 12kV and 34kV electric distribution lines to meeting growing electric demand across the city. The utility is known for its fast, effective emergency response and maintains electric rates that remain below average compared to regional utilities.

RMU is governed by a four-member Board of Public Works that is appointed by the Mayor but operates independently from City Hall. RMU works closely with key community partners including Missouri S&T, Phelps Health, the City of Rolla, and many local developers.

About Rolla, Missouri

Rolla is a growing community of approximately 20,000 people in south-central Missouri, located along I-44 between St. Louis and Springfield. It serves as a regional hub for education, healthcare, and employment.  Missouri University of Science and Technology, a nationally ranked STEM university, and Phelps Health, a major regional medical center and employer, anchor the local economy alongside nearby Fort Leonard Wood. Rolla offers an affordable cost of living, access to quality schools, and a strong network of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces. It is known for an active civic culture, strong sense of community, and collaborative approach to local problem-solving. It’s a place where people look out for one another and work together to build a community they are proud to call home.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and strategic leader who is ready to build upon what’s working well, thoughtfully navigate growth and infrastructure needs, and continue to strengthen RMU’s presence in the community. We are looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in Utility Leadership: You bring a strong background in public utility operations, infrastructure planning, rate setting, capital improvement planning, and service delivery, especially in electric and water systems.
• Strategic and Growth-Ready: You understand the infrastructure demands of a growing community, and are able to plan for long-term capacity, guide system upgrades, and support new development.
• Steady, Professional, and People-Oriented: You stay calm under pressure, respond effectively in emergencies, and maintain professionalism in all situations. You can navigate politics without being political, and you don’t take things personally.
• Community-Minded: You believe in being present. You build trust by showing up in community spaces, civic groups, and conversations. You view customer service as everyone’s job.
• Collaborative and Hands-On: You know how to lead without micromanaging, value the deep experience of the team, and are comfortable in a smaller, do-it-all environment.

As the Chief Executive Officer of RMU, the General Manager is responsible for the full leadership, management, and operation of the utility. Key duties include:

• Overseeing electric and water utility operations and maintenance.
• Leading budgeting, rate analysis, and long-term financial planning.
• Managing capital projects and system upgrades (e.g., undergrounding, pump stations).
• Hiring, supervising, and supporting a dedicated and tenured staff team.
• Maintaining organizational compliance with safety, legal, and regulatory standards.
• Representing RMU in professional, civic, and intergovernmental settings.
• Providing strategic counsel to the Rolla Board of Public Works.
• Maintaining strong relationships with the City, university, hospital, and development community.

A full job description is available upon request.

• Must have a High School diploma or equivalent. Prefer either a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, business, public administration, closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible utility experience.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in operations, budgeting, and project management.
• Familiarity with public sector or municipal utilities strongly preferred.
• Must possess or obtain a Missouri driver’s license within four weeks of hire.
• Must pass all required physical and background checks.

Salary & Benefits

RMU is offering a hiring salary range of $145,000 - $185,000, depending on qualifications. RMU participates in the Missouri Local Government Employees Retirement System (LAGERS) and offers a full benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance.

Apply Today

First review of applications begins October 30, 2025. Apply online at: OMNI Executive Career Portal

EverStrive Solutions and OMNI Human Resource Solutions are honored to partner with the Rolla Board of Public Works and RMU on this search.

For confidential inquiries, contact: 

Meredith Hauck, Partner

EverStrive Solutions

mhauck@everstrivesolutions.com

Stacey Cowan, Practice Leader, Senior Recruiter

OMNI Human Resource Solutions

scowan@omnihrm.com

Rolla Municipal Utilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Finalists will be subject to a comprehensive background check.