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Fairfax Water Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The General Manager of Fairfax Water is responsible for ensuring that the utility remains a respected industry leader, upholding its customers' trust by providing water of exceptional quality and ...

Fairfax Water will ONLY accept applications/resumes via the directions below. Examples of Duties * Provide actionable insights and recommendations to the Board to inform governance and strategic ...

Plant Mechanic I/II

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$49K - $89K/yr

This position is considered essential personnel by Fairfax Water. Examples of Duties Performs a variety of skilled corrective and preventive industrial mechanical tasks by: * Assisting Plant Mechanic ...

This position is considered essential personnel by Fairfax Water. Examples of Duties Performs a variety of skilled corrective and preventive industrial mechanical tasks by: Assisting Plant Mechanic ...

This position is considered essential personnel by Fairfax Water. Performs a variety of skilled corrective and preventive industrial mechanical tasks by: * Assisting Plant Mechanic IIIs in ...

Process Engineer (Engineer V)

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$99K - $174K/yr

Fairfax County's Wastewater Management Program is a nationally recognized Utility of the Future. Its wastewater treatment plant, the 67 MGD Noman M. Cole Water Recycling Facility, is a multi-year ...

... Water Resources and Infrastructure building, located at 6000 Freds Oak Road, Burke, VA 22015. Position may require traveling to multiple Fairfax County sites. This position works in the DPWES ...

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Fairfax Water information

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$35K

$86.8K

$142.5K

How much do fairfax water jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for fairfax water in the United States is $86,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Fairfax Water and what does it do?

Fairfax Water is the largest water utility in Virginia, responsible for providing high-quality drinking water to residents and businesses in Fairfax County and surrounding areas. The organization manages water treatment plants, maintains water distribution infrastructure, and ensures compliance with all federal and state water quality standards. Their primary services include water supply, treatment, distribution, and customer support for water-related issues. Fairfax Water is committed to protecting public health and the environment while delivering reliable water service.

What are Fairfax Water's current projects?

Fairfax Water's current projects include infrastructure upgrades such as pipeline replacements, treatment plant improvements, and system modernization efforts. These projects aim to enhance water quality, reliability, and capacity, often involving project management skills and adherence to safety standards. Details about specific projects are available through their official updates and planning documents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Utility Operator at Fairfax Water, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Utility Operator at Fairfax Water, you typically need a background in water treatment or environmental science, a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant state operator certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators respond to plant issues and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe and reliable delivery of clean water to the community while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

Is Fairfax Water a government job?

Fairfax Water is a public utility that operates as a government-owned entity, providing water services to the community. Jobs at Fairfax Water are considered government or public sector positions, often requiring knowledge of public administration, safety protocols, and utility operations.

What is the difference between Fairfax Water vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectFairfax WaterWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, EPA certificationsWater treatment certifications, EPA licenses
Work EnvironmentPublic utility, treatment plants, distribution systemsWater treatment facilities, plant operations
Employer & IndustryPublic water utility, government sectorPublic or private water facilities, industry-specific

Fairfax Water is a public utility providing water services in Virginia, focusing on water treatment and distribution. A Water Treatment Plant Operator specifically manages daily operations of water treatment facilities, ensuring water quality and safety. While both roles require similar certifications and work in water treatment environments, Fairfax Water is the employer, whereas Water Treatment Plant Operator is a job title within such organizations.

What jobs in Fairfax County pay the most?

In Fairfax Water, senior management roles such as Director or Chief Engineer tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require advanced technical skills, leadership experience, and relevant certifications, and they offer higher compensation due to their responsibility level and expertise required.

How can I get into the water industry?

To enter the water industry, consider gaining relevant education such as a degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field. Certifications like Water Treatment Operator or Wastewater Operator can improve job prospects, and starting in entry-level positions such as technician or operator provides practical experience in water treatment and distribution systems.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working at Fairfax Water and how are they addressed?

Employees at Fairfax Water often encounter challenges related to maintaining strict safety and regulatory standards while ensuring the uninterrupted supply of clean water to the community. Adapting to evolving technology in water treatment and distribution can also be demanding, but ongoing training and support are provided. Team members work collaboratively across departments, and Fairfax Water promotes a culture of open communication, regular training, and mentorship to help staff overcome obstacles and advance in their roles.
More about Fairfax Water jobs
What cities are hiring for Fairfax Water jobs? Cities with the most Fairfax Water job openings:
What states have the most Fairfax Water jobs? States with the most job openings for Fairfax Water jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fairfax Water job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, 20% Nights, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,796 per year, or $41.7 per hour.
General Manager

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description The General Manager plans, directs, and coordinates the operations of Fairfax Water and the utility's 500+ professionals. This executive reports directly to the Fairfax Water Board, composed of ten Fairfax County citizens appointed by the elected Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The General Manager of Fairfax Water is responsible for ensuring that the utility remains a respected industry leader, upholding its customers' trust by providing water of exceptional quality and reliability, at a reasonable price, while supporting the high quality of life and economic vitality of the region.

To apply to this position: Please follow the directions under the "How to Apply Section" to ensure that your application is received and processed. Fairfax Water will ONLY accept applications/resumes via the directions below. Examples of Duties Provide actionable insights and recommendations to the Board to inform governance and strategic decisions.

Direct operations in alignment with regulatory requirements, Board policies, and industry standards. Execute and report progress on strategic initiatives, including Strategic Plan 2030. Lead system planning efforts to ensure long-term supply reliability and infrastructure resilience.

Oversee operating and capital budgets, including a large-scale, long-term capital improvement program. Guide financing strategies, rate setting, and overall financial performance, including debt management. Advance technology modernization, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency initiatives.

Build and lead a high-performing organization, including talent development, succession planning, and workforce strategy. Develop strong relationships with regulators, elected officials, wholesale partners, and other key stakeholders. Champion water quality, regulatory compliance, sustainability, and system reliability initiatives.

Typical Qualifications 10-15+ years of senior leadership experience in utilities or comparable infrastructure-intensive sectors. Deep knowledge of utility operations, regulatory frameworks, and industry best practices. Proven track record managing large-scale capital programs ($100M+) and complex projects.

Demonstrated financial acumen, including budgeting, rate structures, and fiscal oversight. Strong leadership and organizational capability, including team building and talent development. Experience driving strategy execution and organizational transformation at scale.

Strong political acumen and experience operating in highly visible, regulated environments. Exceptional stakeholder engagement, communication, and influence skills across public and private sectors. Demonstrated ability to influence, collaborate, and build trust across diverse constituencies.

Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required; advanced degree preferred (engineering, business, finance, or related field). Supplemental Information How to Apply: Fairfax Water has engaged the executive search firm, Korn Ferry, to manage the recruitment of its next General Manager. If you have questions, or would like to apply, please reach out directly to Korn Ferry at FW_GM@kornferry.com

Please DO NOT contact Fairfax Water directly for this position. Please follow the directions above to apply.