1

Water Distribution Manager Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Regional CDL Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

... intervention, water, wastewater, and process systems. Our clients include some of the most ... Collect delivery instructions from Distribution Manager, verifying instructions and routes. Ensure ...

Regional CDL Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

... intervention, water, wastewater, and process systems. Our clients include some of the most ... Collect delivery instructions from Distribution Manager, verifying instructions and routes. Ensure ...

Civil Design Engineer

Bristol, TN · On-site

$63K - $79K/yr

Support the design of critical public works infrastructure, including water distribution networks, sanitary sewer systems, water/wastewater treatment components, and pump stations. * Manage ...

Civil Design Engineer

Bristol, TN · On-site

$52 - $78/hr

Support the design of critical public works infrastructure, including water distribution networks, sanitary sewer systems, water/wastewater treatment components, and pump stations. * Manage ...

Design and oversee the installation of utility systems, such as water distribution, wastewater collection, and stormwater management, to support site development and functionality. * Work closely ...

Showing results 41-60

Water Distribution Manager information

See Tennessee salary details

$35.4K

$67.8K

$110.3K

How much do water distribution manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for water distribution manager in Tennessee is $67,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $75,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water distribution manager do?

A Water Distribution Manager oversees the operation and maintenance of a community's water distribution system, ensuring that clean and safe water is delivered to homes and businesses. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring water quality, managing staff, coordinating repairs, and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. They also develop budgets, implement safety protocols, and may respond to emergencies such as water main breaks or contamination events. The role requires strong leadership, technical knowledge of water systems, and a commitment to public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water distribution manager?

To thrive as a Water Distribution Manager, you need expertise in water systems management, regulatory compliance, and typically a degree in civil or environmental engineering along with relevant certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, GIS software, and water quality testing equipment is commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating teams and responding to emergencies. These combined skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of water to communities.

What are some typical challenges faced by water distribution managers, and how can they be addressed?

Water Distribution Managers often encounter challenges such as aging infrastructure, unexpected equipment failures, and ensuring compliance with water quality regulations. Proactively addressing these issues involves regular system maintenance, implementing modern monitoring technologies, and staying updated on local and federal regulations. Building strong communication channels with field teams and other departments also helps in quickly resolving operational issues and maintaining service reliability.

What is the difference between Water Distribution Manager vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Distribution ManagerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsWater distribution certifications, relevant licensesWater treatment certifications, operator licenses
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, overseeing distribution systemsPlant facilities, operating treatment equipment
Industry UsageMunicipal water systems, utilitiesWater treatment facilities, municipal or industrial plants

The Water Distribution Manager focuses on overseeing the delivery of potable water through distribution systems, ensuring safety and efficiency. In contrast, the Water Treatment Plant Operator manages the treatment process to produce clean water. Both roles require specialized certifications and are vital in water utility operations, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

Is water distribution management a good career?

Water distribution management is a stable career that involves overseeing the delivery of potable water to communities, requiring knowledge of water systems, safety standards, and often certifications. It offers opportunities for advancement and typically involves working in municipal or utility settings with regular hours and the need for technical skills.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Water Distribution Manager jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Water Distribution Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Manager job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,798 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Senior Civil Engineer Water & Wastewater

Thompson & Litton Inc

Johnson City, TN • On-site

$106K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the engineering of complex water and wastewater utility projects, including linear utility improvements, pump stations, force mains, and treatment-related infrastructure.

  • Review engineering plans and calculations for quality, technical accuracy, constructability, and compliance with applicable standards and regulations.

  • Manage project schedules, budgets, and technical design staff to ensure successful, on-time project execution.


Job description

Are you an experienced engineering professional looking to lead high-impact public infrastructure projects and step into a primary leadership role? Thompson & Litton (T&L), an established multi-disciplined firm serving both public and private sector clients, has an immediate opening for a Senior Civil Engineer Water & Wastewater in Tennessee or West Virginia.

This role is designed for a technical expert with clear advancement potential into a Lead Civil Engineer position, taking ownership of regional utility initiatives, guiding project strategy, and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

The Role: Strategic Leadership & Technical Excellence

As a senior engineer on the path to overall team leadership within our civil group, you will direct projects from concept through construction. You will:

  • Lead Technical Design: Head the engineering of complex water and wastewater utility projects, including linear utility improvements, pump stations, force mains, and treatment-related infrastructure.
  • Ensure Quality & Compliance: Review engineering plans and calculations for quality, technical accuracy, constructability, and compliance with applicable local, state, and federal standards and regulations.
  • Manage Project Delivery: Direct project schedules, budgets, and technical design staff to ensure successful, on-time project execution.
  • Navigate Regulatory Permitting: Oversee the preparation and submission of comprehensive permit packages through local, state, and federal agencies.
  • Support Construction & Clients: Manage construction administration and field coordination while serving as a primary point of contact for public-sector utility clients.
What You Bring
  • Licensure: Active Professional Engineer (PE) license required, with the ability to obtain licensure in the state of employment through reciprocity as needed.
  • Experience: Ideally 8+ years of progressive civil engineering experience, with a strong focus on water/wastewater utility systems and a desire to grow into a group leadership role.
  • Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with hydraulic modeling software, specifically WaterCAD and SewerCAD. Familiarity with AutoCAD is preferred but not required.
  • Core Expertise: Demonstrated experience with several of the following:
    • Water distribution systems
    • Sanitary sewer collection systems
    • Force mains and pump stations
    • Utility relocation and rehabilitation projects
    • Water and wastewater treatment-related improvements
    • Hydraulic modeling or utility system analysis
    • Permitting through local, state, and federal agencies
    • Construction administration and field coordination
    • Public-sector utility client coordination
    • Managing project schedules, budgets, and technical staff
  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or Environmental Engineering.
Why Tennessee or West Virginia?

With opportunities available in Tennessee or West Virginia, T&L offers the chance to build a career in communities where professional opportunity meets an exceptional quality of life.

  • Unmatched Outdoor Life: Enjoy abundant opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, and other outdoor recreation throughout the Appalachian region.
  • Stress-Free Commutes: Enjoy shorter, low-congestion commutes compared to larger metropolitan areas.
  • Regional Connectivity: Live and work within convenient driving distance of larger cities and regional hubs while maintaining the benefits of smaller communities.
  • Affordable Cost of Living: Many of the communities we serve offer a lower cost of living than major metropolitan areas, allowing your income to go further.
  • Community Impact: Work directly on infrastructure projects that improve the communities where you live and work.
The T&L Advantage: Why Join Us?

Joining our team means becoming part of a forward-thinking organization committed to providing an environment where senior professionals can excel, lead, and share directly in the firm's success.

  • Defined Leadership Trajectory: We are intentionally hiring with leadership succession in mind. As you establish your project portfolio, you will have a direct pathway to transition into a Lead Engineer roletaking charge of client relationships, business development initiatives, and team operations.
  • Employee Ownership & Long-Term Retirement Value: We are proud to be an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company. When you join T&L, you become an owner. Our ESOP provides team members with a direct ownership stake in the firm's growth and the opportunity to build meaningful long-term financial value through the company's success.
  • Mentorship & Team Building: We invest in our people. As you grow into leadership, your ability to mentor junior engineers and shape team culture will be just as valued as your high-level technical expertise.
  • Innovative Work Environment: We foster a culture of innovation and collaboration where senior expertise is valued, creative problem-solving is encouraged, and team members work with an owner's mindset.
  • Competitive Compensation & Benefits: We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive health coverage, generous time off, and strong retirement benefits designed to support you and your family at every stage of life.