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Water Operations Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Water Operations Manager information

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 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.

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 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.

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 typically requires technical skills, certifications such as a water operator license, and the ability to manage teams and equipment in a field environment. The demand for qualified managers remains steady due to ongoing infrastructure needs and regulatory requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Water Operations Manager jobs in Illinois?

For Water Operations Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Operations Manager jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operations Manager jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Water Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Water Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Operations Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Senior Water/Wastewater Operations Project Manager

Baxter and Woodman Inc

Mokena, IL โ€ข On-site

$100 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Career Opportunities with Baxter and Woodman Inc

A great place to work.

Senior Water/Wastewater Operations Project Manager

Your future position: Senior Water/Wastewater Operations Project Manager

Choose your location: Bannockburn, Crystal Lake, Chicago, Naperville, or Mokena, IL offices.

Why you should join our team! Why Baxter & Woodman?

At Baxter & Woodman, both seasoned professionals and recent graduates find more than a job; they uncover a long-lasting, fulfilling career with a distinguished leader in technology and innovation. Our work environment is extraordinary and being honored as one of the 2026 Zweig Best Firms to Work For exemplifies our appreciation and respect for our dedicated staff.

About the role, Your Impact

Baxter & Woodman has a rewarding opportunity for a Senior Water/Wastewater Operations Project Manager in our Municipal Services Department. We are seeking qualified applicants for our Crystal Lake, Chicago, Naperville, or Mokena, IL offices.

What your day-to-day will look like

  • Coordinate Communications between B&W, client and contractor for our capital improvement programs.
  • Coordinate and Administer Water/Wastewater Start-upโ€™s after Construction.
  • Complete Operational Reviews of Water/Wastewater Plans during design.
  • Visit and Troubleshoot Water/Wastewater Facilities when needed for municipal clients.
  • Assist in Rate Studies, Alternate Water Studies, Capital Improvement Plans, and Asset Management Plans.
  • Act as Responsible Operator in Charge (ROINC) for one or multiple water/wastewater treatment facilities.
  • Ensures regulatory compliance and submit DMRโ€™s to IEPA.
  • Direct operators and labors in proper water/wastewater operations.
  • Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies and associations, City management and staff, and the public.
  • Responsible for compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to the water and wastewater systems.
  • Provide on-site Municipal staffing assistance to several clients.
  • Where required, serve as part-time staff technician to local municipality.
  • Prepare and submit permits for local municipal projects.
  • Coordinate work done by other departments for local municipality.
  • Review development plans from Client Perspective for compliance with local requirements including stormwater management, grading, sanitary sewers, water lines, and transportation aspects.
  • Consult with other reviewers regarding electrical, photometric, and structural issues.
  • Assess the need for permits from other agencies.
  • Assess impacts to on-site and adjacent private and public facilities
  • Provide recommendations for improving on-site or adjacent facilities in conjunction with the development.
  • Prepare written review reports; communicate with village staff, developers, and designers.
  • Respond proactively to inquiries from village staff and officials, developers, designers and adjacent property owners.
  • Assist with preparation, documentation, and improvement of review procedures.
  • Performs other assignments as required.

Education Requirement

  • A bachelorโ€™s degree in an environmentally focused degree program is preferred.

Certifications/Licenses:

Must-haves, what you will bring

  • 10+ years' experience operating in a water or wastewater treatment facility or related experience required.
  • Must have significant experience in a water/wastewater operations and laboratory procedures.
  • Must have knowledge of NPDES limits for wastewater quality and wastewater treatment facility regulations.
  • Excellent technical writing and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to explain technical issues to non-technical municipal staff and officials.
  • Ability to work with local government staff and officials.
  • Must have a valid U.S. Driver's License.

Compensation The pay range for this role is $100,000-$120,000. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, depth of experience, and certifications.

You matter! Our outstanding benefits - At our organization, we prioritize the holistic well-being of our employees through a comprehensive range of benefits. This commitment is evident in our healthcare offerings, including medical, dental, and vision plans, alongside an Employee Assistance Program and dedicated benefit advisors for personalized support. Financial well-being is enhanced through our financial planning program, life and disability insurance, tax savings plans, and coverage for accidents, cancer, and critical illnesses. Balancing work and life, we provide generous paid time off, paid holidays, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements, including the option to work from home on half Fridays and varied schedules. Additionally, we lead the industry by offering 401k plans, supported by expert financial advisors, and an Employee Stock Ownership program, ensuring our employees are not just part of a workplace but a thriving, supportive community dedicated to their well-being, financial security, and happiness.

Baxter & Woodman is an equal opportunity - Vet/Disability employer

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