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Water Operations Manager Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

NW Natural

Water Operations Senior Manager

Newberg, OR

$97K - $155K/yr

Water Operations Senior Manager Non-Union Position WTR-Water Services Management; Newberg, Oregon (US-OR) Regular FT, Exempt Posting # 5589 About Us: NW Natural Water owns and operates water and ...

NW Natural

Water Operations Senior Manager

Newberg, OR · On-site

$97K - $155K/yr

Water Operations Senior Manager Non-Union Position WTR-Water Services Management; Newberg, Oregon (US-OR) Regular FT, Exempt Posting # 5589 About Us: NW Natural Water owns and operates water and ...

NW Natural

Water Operations Senior Manager

Newberg, OR

$97K - $155K/yr

Water Operations Senior Manager Non-Union Position WTR-Water Services Management; Newberg, Oregon (US-OR) Regular FT, Exempt Posting # 5589 About Us: NW Natural Water owns and operates water and ...

Design Hire LLC

Operations Supervisor

Portland, OR · On-site

... management. * Oversee the operation and monitoring of utility systems to ensure consistent ... Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in industrial operations, utilities, water treatment, or ...

MWH

Building Superintendent - Water/Wastewater

Gresham, OR · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

The Concrete Superintendent is responsible for managing all field operations related to structural and civil concrete work on water/wastewater projects. This includes planning, coordinating, and ...

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All JobsWater Operations JobsWater Operations Manager JobsWater Operations Manager Jobs in Portland, OR

Water Operations Manager information

See Portland, OR salary details

$32.9K

$67.3K

$125.7K

How much do water operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operations manager in Portland, OR is $67,296.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $82,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Water Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Water Operations Manager job openings:

Water Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operations Manager job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,296 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Water Operations Senior Manager

NW Natural

Newberg, OR

$97K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Water Operations Senior Manager 

Non-Union Position
WTR-Water Services Management; Newberg, Oregon (US-OR)  
Regular FT, Exempt
Posting # 5589  

About Us:

NW Natural Water owns and operates water and wastewater utilities in communities throughout Texas, Arizona, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Since 2018, we have acquired more than 30 utilities and today serve more than 190,000 people via 76,000 connections.

Our parent company, NW Natural Holding Company (NYSE: NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and has been doing business for over 165 years. The company operates through NW Natural Gas Company (NW Natural), SiEnergy Operating (SiEnergy), NW Natural Water Company (NW Natural Water), NW Natural Renewables Holdings (NW Natural Renewables), and other business interests, serving a combined population of over 2.6 million people.

The Role:

Administer client relationship and operations management responsibilities pertaining to service agreement scope fulfillment in the areas of system operation, utility management, and management of client relationships. Major areas of management include staffing, water systems compliance, budgeting, and revenue generation.  

Day to Day:
  • Administer the overall operation of water distribution, water treatment, wastewater collections, and wastewater treatment for client water systems within department service area. Execute all contractual deliverables in the areas of field operations and management services.
  • Manage client communications, including preparation of written status reports, email, phone, and in person meetings as required.
  • Facilitate preparation of annual client budgets and midyear budget adjustments. Coordinate client budget approvals and manage service contracts to meet budgets.  
  • Maintain current knowledge and understanding in order to ensure strict compliance with all federal and state rules and regulations.
  • Develop and manage operations team, including responsibility to hire in accordance with staffing plan, develop staff to effectively provide services, and to complete training and gain certifications in accordance with company policy.  
  • Conduct scheduled employee staffing performance evaluations within Company guidelines.
  • Manage department budget through personnel utilization and other metrics.
  • Direct emergency response programs.
  • Comply with all Company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
  • Comply with Company Grooming and uniform policy. 
Come on your first day with:

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

REQUIRED:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education/experience.  
  • Five years experience in a leadership/management role.  
  • Two to five years of experience in covering all aspects of utility operation.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of laws and regulations that apply to various governing agencies.
  • Thorough knowledge of water and wastewater system operations, as applicable. 
  • Valid driver’s license (or obtain within 90 days if out-of-state), required certifications/endorsements, and satisfactory driving record. 

CERTIFICATIONS: Preference to hold one or more upon hire, or must obtain a level 1 certification within one year of employment 

  • Oregon Water Distribution Operator (Grade 1-4)
  • Oregon Water Treatment Operator (Grade 1-4)
  • Oregon Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (Grade 1-4)
  • Oregon Wastewater Collections Operator (Grade 1-4) 
Working Conditions:

The working environment will vary from extreme outdoor conditions to indoor job duties.  This position requires decision and leadership ability, at times in emergency situations. Safety procedures must always be followed.  Employees may be exposed to hazardous materials, confined space, electrical components, and heavy equipment such as backhoes, dump trucks and sewer flushing vehicles.  Employees must be in a physical condition that will allow personnel access into typical industrial processing plant facilities and equipment. 

What we offer:


Health & Wellness –

  • Rich health insurance benefits with competitive employer contribution
  • Free access to an online wellness resources platform 

Work Life Balance -

  • Accrue up to 15 Vacation Days annually
  • 13 paid holidays
  • 3 weeks paid parental leave

Financial -

  • Competitive 401K company contribution and match 
  • 15% discount on NW Natural stock through Employee Stock Purchase Program
  • Up to $5250 a year in tuition reimbursement  

Base salary range: $97,078.00 - $155,324.00 per year, depending on qualifications 
 

Application Process: To be considered for this position, submit a complete electronic application including cover letter and resume via our website.

https://www.careers.nwnatural.com/nwnaturalwater

Deadline: 8/27/26

Disclosure: We are a drug free workplace and we comply with Federal Drug Free Workplace Act and Department of Transportation regulations. NW Natural Water participates in E-Verify. Individuals hired will have their Form I-9 information submitted to E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee’s Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.

E-Verify Information
NW Natural participates in E-Verify. Individuals hired will have their Form I-9 information submitted to E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee’s Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.

All applications must be submitted through NW Natural Water’s Electronic Application System. Resumes submitted via email, fax or mail will not be accepted in lieu of an electronic application.

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.  

NW Natural Water does not accept unsolicited submissions or assistance from search firms for posted positions. Resumes submitted by search firms working under a valid and current written contract with NW Natural Water valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from NW Natural Water HR/Employment will be deemed the sole property of NW Natural Water. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by NW Natural Water as a result of the referral or through other means.

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