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Water Operations Manager Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Perform additional responsibilities as designated by the Operations Manager * Allow for rotational assignments between Ground Water and Surface Water What's Required to Be Successful * High school ...

Operations Manager

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

We are seeking an Operations Manager to support the safe, reliable, and efficient operations of Ultra-Pure Water system at a customer site. In this role, you will assist with planning, coordinating ...

We are seeking an Operations Manager to support the safe, reliable, and efficient operations of Ultra-Pure Water system at a customer site. In this role, you will assist with planning, coordinating ...

ASARCO is seeking a Responsible Tailings and Water Operations Engineer (RTWOE) to oversee mine tailings storage facilities (TSFs) and related water management systems at the Ray and Hayden operations.

... operational problems, discusses scope and attributes of problems with staff and management, and ... Water Laboratory practices required to properly evaluate treatment processes, such as DO, pH, jar ...

Water Treatment Plant Operator III

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$32.98 - $42.86/hr

... operational problems, discusses scope and attributes of problems with staff and management, and ... Water * Laboratory practices required to properly evaluate treatment processes, such as DO, pH, jar ...

In cooperation with the Division Management and Operation Superintendent oversees Division water quality testing, verifies all required testing is performed in accordance with approved scheduling and ...

Water Tailings Engineer

Kearny, AZ · On-site

$80K - $99K/yr

Tailings and Water Management * Serve as the Responsible Tailings Facility Engineer for Ray and Hayden operations, ensuring the stability and integrity of TSFs. * Oversee tailings deposition and ...

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Water Operations Manager information

Is water operations management a good career?

Water operations management is a stable career that involves overseeing the treatment and distribution of water, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards. It often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of water systems, making it a vital role in public health and infrastructure. The field offers opportunities for advancement and steady employment in utility companies and government agencies.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a water operations manager?

To thrive as a Water Operations Manager, you need a solid background in water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and supervisory experience, typically supported by a degree in environmental science or engineering and relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and compliance management software is essential for efficient operations. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and responding to emergencies. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, reliable delivery of water services while meeting health standards and regulatory requirements.

What is a water operations manager?

Water Operations Managers oversee the daily operations of water treatment and distribution systems to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of water to communities or businesses. They manage staff, maintain equipment, monitor water quality, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Their responsibilities also include budgeting, reporting, and responding to emergencies such as contamination or equipment failures. Water Operations Managers play a critical role in ensuring the reliable supply of clean water and the protection of public health.

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

AspectWater Operations ManagerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field; certifications like CWEA or state licenses are commonTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications such as CWEA Operator Certification are preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple facilities or departments, managing staff and operationsWorks directly at a treatment plant, operating equipment and monitoring processes
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by municipal water agencies, large industrial facilities, and consulting firmsEmployed by municipal water utilities, treatment plants, and private companies

The Water Operations Manager focuses on overseeing overall water system operations, staff management, and strategic planning, while the Water Treatment Plant Operator handles the day-to-day operation and maintenance of treatment equipment. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How does a water operations manager collaborate with regulatory agencies and internal teams?

Water Operations Managers frequently work with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with water quality standards and environmental regulations. They coordinate internally with engineering, maintenance, and safety teams to implement operational protocols and respond to any issues that arise. Regular communication and documentation are essential, as is participating in audits and inspections. This collaborative approach helps maintain safe, efficient, and compliant water operations while fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability.
What job categories do people searching Water Operations Manager jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operations Manager jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Water Operations Manager jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Water Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Operations Manager job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description


Title: Operations Manager
Duration: FTE - Direct Hire
Location: Yuma, AZ
JOB DESCRIPTION
Under limited supervision, administers and directs the Foothills Utilities's operations and programs consisting of Water and Wastewater (W/WW) operating plants, water distribution and wastewater collection systems, customer services; assures the department is in compliance with state and Federal environmental regulations, and Foothills Utilities policies, procedures and goals.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodation will be made as required.The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer.
• Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Assists in directing the Utilities Department operations; exercises independent judgment within broad policy guidelines; evaluates and analyzes issues, and recommends and implements solutions; provides leadership, direction and guidance in department operations. Provides advice and counsel to Director; assists with planning, directing, reviewing and evaluating department operations, and work performed; assures compliance with State and Federal environmental and water quality laws and regulations, and Foothills Utilities policies and standards.
• Supervises division and program managers, including water treatment, wastewater treatment, water distribution/field customer service, wastewater collections and environmental compliance. Directs operations and programs, evaluates trends, anticipates problems, and develops solutions within each division.
• Plans and manages the activities of professional, technical, and supervisory staff; plans, prioritizes, and assigns tasks and projects; trains and coaches staff; monitors work, develops staff skills, and evaluates performance.
• Plans, schedules, prioritizes, and assures effective communication of Utilities activities and projects within specified scope to assure accomplishment of goals and objectives; plans staffing assignments to assure operational effectiveness; reviews the work of assigned staff to assure the work quality and timely completion of assigned duties and responsibilities.
• Provides leadership, direction, and guidance in Utilities operations and procedures; assures effective communication of trends, issues, and regulatory compliance actions.
• Assists in developing and administrating budgets and controlling expenditures; evaluates departmental functions and programs to assure cost-effective operation and environmental compliance; develops detailed and summary reports.
• Exercises independent judgment within broad policy guidelines; evaluates and analyzes operational and technical issues and policies; evaluates progress toward achieving department goals and project objectives; evaluates staffing levels, resource availability, system efficiency, and service demands; allocates and prioritizes resources to maximize operational effectiveness.
• Monitors operations, manages costs, and directs technical projects to increase efficiency and effectiveness of services; writes technical reports and statistical summaries, and assures compliance with all reporting requirements for state and Federal agencies.
• Interfaces with and serves as the Utilities representative in meetings with various Federal and State regulatory agencies regarding a variety of water and wastewater programs including compliance with all new and existing related environmental requirements.
• Administers new and existing environmental permits relative to all phases of water and wastewater programs; evaluates the impact of new and proposed environmental regulations on the City's water and wastewater programs; evaluates programs and develops methods, process changes, program modifications, and other relevant solutions to meet new or changed requirements.
• Responds to critical incidents and emergencies, and takes command when appropriate, according to Foothills Utilities protocol; coordinates, plans, and resolves issues with other state and regional agencies; explains and interprets programs, policies, and activities.
• Supports the relationship between the Foothills Utilities and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors, and Foothills Utilities staff; promotes the Foothills Utilities goals and priorities, vision, values, and complies with all Foothills Utilities policies and procedures.
• Maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues andinformation; performs other duties as required or assigned.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
• Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines
• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology Business or Public Administration, or related field; AND five years of management experience in a large water/wastewater utilities; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
KNOWLEDGE
• Principles and practices of public sector administrative management, including performance management, personnel rules, accounting, budgeting, procurement, and contract management.
• Techniques and practices for efficient and cost-effective management of resources.
• Federal, State, and local codes and regulations governing water and wastewater operations and emergency response.
• Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, United States Environmental Protection Agency, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety rules and requirements for W/WW systems.
• Principles and practices for managing water & wastewater operations and projects.
• Principles and practices of managing municipal infrastructure development and maintenance.
• Principles and methods of maintenance and repair for water & wastewater systems and equipment.
• Environmentally responsible and resource-efficient W/WW programs depending on assignment may include biosolids or residual handling and disposal, industrial waste pretreatment, compliance laboratory testing, cross-connection control, system evaluation, sanitary defects, and disinfection.
• Principles and practices of advanced information technology associated with water and wastewater programs and operations.
SKILLS
• Managing and coordinating the Utilities W/WW operations.
• Interpreting and applying technical standards and procedures, Federal and state rules and regulations, and Foothills Utilities code, Foothills Utilities Regulations, policies and procedures.
• Developing and administering plans, budgets, policies, and procedures.
• Managing professional and supervisory level staff, delegating tasks and authority, and coaching to improve staff performance.
• Analyzing problems, resolving disputes and grievances, and developing effective solutions.
• Using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines
• Interpreting technical instructions and analyzing complex variables.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with Foothills Utilities employees, officials, and representatives from other local, state, and Federal agencies.
• Assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects, and demands.
• Preparing, reviewing, and presenting management reports.
• Operating a personal computer utilizing standard and specialized software.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
• A valid Arizona State Driver's License is required.Grade 4 W/WW operator certifications in multiple ADEQ categories are preferred; additional technical training and certifications may be required, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (NIMS) training.