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Manager Water Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Anaheim

Water Field Operations Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$162K - $243K/yr

Assume management responsibility for assigned services and activities of the Water Field Operations Division including water transmission and distribution, water production, water system operations ...

Ardurra

Project Manager - Water/Wastewater

Fresno, CA · On-site

$120K - $1M/yr

Ardurra is seeking a Project Manager - Water/Wastewater to join our team ideally in Newport Beach, CA ., but could be based out of any of our California offices. The Project Manager should have ...

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All JobsWater JobsManager Water JobsManager Water Jobs in California

Manager Water information

See California salary details

$24.5K

$82.3K

$148.4K

How much do manager water jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager water in California is $82,288.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,388.00 and $106,735.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Manager Water vs Water Treatment Plant Supervisor?

AspectManager WaterWater Treatment Plant Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental Engineering or related field; often requires management experienceTechnical diploma or degree in water treatment or environmental science; relevant certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects or facilities, manages teams, and develops policiesSupervises daily operations of a water treatment plant, ensuring compliance and safety
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, water utilities, environmental firmsWater treatment facilities, municipal water departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Manager Water typically holds a broader leadership role, overseeing multiple projects or facilities and developing policies, often requiring management experience and higher-level credentials. In contrast, the Water Treatment Plant Supervisor focuses on daily operational supervision of a specific water treatment plant, ensuring safety and compliance. Both roles are essential in the water industry but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manager Water?

To thrive as a Manager Water, you typically need a degree in civil or environmental engineering, water resource management, or a related field, along with experience in water utility operations. Familiarity with water distribution systems, SCADA software, GIS, and regulatory compliance frameworks is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with stakeholders effectively. These competencies ensure the efficient, safe, and regulatory-compliant management of water resources and services.

What does a Manager Water do?

A Manager Water is responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of water supply systems within an organization or municipality. Their duties typically include managing teams, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations, budgeting, and coordinating water treatment and distribution processes. They also develop policies to improve efficiency and address water quality issues, and often serve as the main point of contact for regulatory agencies and the public. Strong leadership, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.

What are some typical challenges a Manager Water faces in coordinating with multiple departments on water management projects?

As a Manager Water, one of the main challenges is ensuring clear communication and collaboration among various teams, such as engineering, environmental compliance, and operations. Projects often require input from multiple stakeholders, and aligning their goals and timelines can be complex. Additionally, navigating regulatory requirements while balancing budget constraints and resource availability adds to the challenge. Effective project management and strong interpersonal skills are essential to successfully coordinate these efforts and achieve project objectives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water jobs in California?

The most popular types of Water jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Manager Water jobs?

Cities in California with the most Manager Water job openings:

Manager Water jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manager Water job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,288 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Project Manager - Water Resources

RE/SPEC Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Big challenges need bold thinkers.
If you're someone who sees problems as opportunities, you'll thrive here. RESPEC is 100% employee-owned, which means we take ownership of every challenge. Here, your ideas drive real solutions. Since 1969, we've tackled complex challenges in energy transition, infrastructure resilience, digital transformation, and sustainability.
At RESPEC, you'll work alongside clients to take on critical problems. Depending on your expertise, you might design infrastructure in remote locations, develop renewable energy solutions for global projects, or apply data-driven technology to improve mining and water systems.
We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a commitment to work that matters. If you're looking for a place where your contributions have real impact, you'll fit right in.
Job Description
RESPEC, seeks a Water Resource Engineering Project Manager in our Water market sector, located in San Diego, CA.
As a Project Manager, you will contribute to a wide range of water resources engineering projects, including rainfall analysis, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, stormwater management, and development of technical guidance documents. The position may also support other civil and water related projects. This position is based in Southern California, with the primary office in San Diego, offers flexibility for hybrid work, and includes regional travel within Southern California for client meetings.
We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in civil, water resources, environmental engineering or a related engineering field
  • 8 or more years of experience in hydrology and hydraulics for public sector or private consulting clients
  • Strong background in rainfall runoff modeling and statistical hydrology
  • A minimum of 3 years of project manager experience
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the state of California
  • Experience leading multidiscipline teams and mentoring technical professionals
  • Proven ability to support business development and strengthen client relationships
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record; position requires operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel

Preferred:
  • Established relationships and experience working with California agencies and public sector clients
  • Direct experience with county or regional hydrology manuals, drainage criteria, or technical guidance documents
  • Experience with advanced statistical analysis of rainfall and streamflow, including nonstationary hydrologic conditions and post fire hydrology
  • Comfort reviewing and defending technical assumptions with agency reviewers
  • Practical application of hydrology and hydraulics software, including HEC-RAS (1D and 2D), HEC-HMS, and SWMM

Additional Information
Compensation: Salary depends on experience and expertise, typical salary range for this position in California is $110k-170k, DOEQ. Compensation includes a comprehensive fringe-benefits package. RESPEC is a 100% employee-owned company and employees are eligible for participation in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) after a qualifying period.
Featured benefits include:
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Retirement & EPP (with company match up to 4%)
  • Professional Development and Training
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply