Research Article
Organizational Pride: The Key to Unlocking Job Satisfaction Among Municipal Utility Employees
Mark Ellickson*
,
Terry Stone,
Stephanie O’Connor
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
1-11
Received:
14 November 2024
Accepted:
29 November 2024
Published:
9 January 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jppa.20250901.11
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: This study examines the key factors influencing job satisfaction among municipal utility employees—a rarely studied yet essential group of workers providing vital services such as electricity, gas, and water. Amid a serious workforce shortage in the public utilities sector, understanding the main drivers of employee satisfaction is crucial for improving recruitment and retention efforts, with significant implications for public health and societal stability. Drawing on survey data from nearly 400 employees at one of the largest municipally owned utility companies in the United States, the study employs the Person-Environment (P-E) Fit model as its theoretical framework. Regression analysis assessed the impact of nine variables across four dimensions of the work environment on job satisfaction. Results indicated that municipal utility workers' job satisfaction is primarily influenced by achieving a strong person-environment fit. The most significant factor is fostering a culture of organizational pride and an emotional connection to the organization. Other important factors associated with job satisfaction include ensuring equitable workloads, offering competitive pay, effectively utilizing employee skills, and providing opportunities for advancement. Contrary to expectations, the quality of coworker interactions was not a significant determinant of job satisfaction. This model explains two-thirds of the variation in job satisfaction among municipal utility employees. The study also discusses research and organizational implications.
Abstract: This study examines the key factors influencing job satisfaction among municipal utility employees—a rarely studied yet essential group of workers providing vital services such as electricity, gas, and water. Amid a serious workforce shortage in the public utilities sector, understanding the main drivers of employee satisfaction is crucial for impr...
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