Chief Administrative Officer-CAO

Job Title: Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
Location: Chico, CA

Position Overview
A high-performing Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is sought to join the Executive Leadership Team. This role will provide strategic and operational leadership across Human Resources, Fleet Operations, Safety, and Administrative functions. The CAO will ensure internal systems scale effectively with organizational growth while maintaining regulatory compliance and workforce stability. This position involves managing both union and non-union workforce policies and delivering hands-on leadership to key support departments. Expert level EXCEL is a must.

Key Responsibilities

Executive Leadership

• Serve as a core member of the Executive Team, contributing to strategic planning, organizational alignment, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Develop systems and teams that enhance operational efficiency and ensure regulatory compliance across departments.

Human Resources & Labor Relations

• Oversee all HR functions including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance.
• Manage labor relations for both union and non-union employees, including collective bargaining and labor law adherence.
• Champion employee engagement, culture-building, and leadership development initiatives.

Fleet Management

• Direct the management of the organization’s vehicle and equipment fleet, including procurement, maintenance, tracking, fuel usage, and DOT compliance.
• Ensure field teams have access to safe, reliable, and well-maintained vehicles to support service delivery.

Safety & Risk Management

• Lead the safety function to ensure compliance with Cal/OSHA and industry-specific safety standards.
• Oversee safety training programs, job hazard analyses, incident reporting, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Foster a culture of safety and accountability in partnership with operations leadership.

Administrative Operations

• Manage internal administrative systems, including documentation, data tracking, and interdepartmental workflows.
• Support the implementation of software and tools that enhance productivity and compliance.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of leadership experience in operations, HR, or administration, with at least 3 years in an executive-level role.
• Proven experience managing both union and non-union workforces, including collective bargaining and labor compliance.
• Strong knowledge of Cal/OSHA, DOT regulations, and California employment law.
• Strategic thinker with a track record of effective execution and team development.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred.
• Industry experience in vegetation management, utility services, construction, or related fields is a plus.