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Water Operations Manager Jobs in Vail, AZ (NOW HIRING)

The Manager - Tailings and Water Services is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing the daily operations, maintenance, and compliance of tailings pump stations and deposition systems ...

Operations Supervisor

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Personnel Management: * Assist the Operations Manager in overseeing and managing all operations ... Familiarity with Storm Water Regulations * Familiarity with Spills Prevention, Control and ...

Operations Supervisor

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Personnel Management: * Assist the Operations Manager in overseeing and managing all operations ... Familiarity with Storm Water Regulations * Familiarity with Spills Prevention, Control and ...

Water Resources Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide stormwater management solutions for mining ... Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to complete design, operational optimization, and closure ...

Water Resources Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide stormwater management solutions for mining ... Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to complete design, operational optimization, and closure ...

Water Resources Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide stormwater management solutions for mining ... Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to complete design, operational optimization, and closure ...

Communicate regularly with the Operations Manager to ensure client needs and expectations are ... Work outdoors near automotive traffic, bodies of water, fumes, dust, mechanical and/or electrical ...

Tucson General Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Packard Culligan Water is a renowned leader in commercial and residential water treatment and ... and operations strategy. * An annual company-wide meeting focused on initiatives, training ...

Tucson General Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Packard Culligan Water is a renowned leader in commercial and residential water treatment and ... and operations strategy. * An annual company-wide meeting focused on initiatives, training ...

... operations and maintenance, engineering or water/wastewater industry technical consulting INCLUDING two years of supervisory or management experience. (Possession of current Arizona Department of ...

... operations and maintenance, engineering or water/wastewater industry technical consulting, INCLUDING two years of supervisory or management experience. (Possession of current Arizona Department of ...

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Water Operations Manager information

See Vail, AZ salary details

$32.7K

$66.9K

$125K

How much do water operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operations manager in Vail, AZ is $66,918.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,200.00 and $81,700.00 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 cities near Vail, AZ are hiring for Water Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Vail, AZ with the most Water Operations Manager job openings:

Tailings & Operations Manager

ASARCO LLC

Sahuarita, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


ASARCO rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 41 rated mining


Job description

The Manager - Tailings and Water Services is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing the daily operations, maintenance, and compliance of tailings pump stations and deposition systems at a large-scale copper concentrator. This role ensures safe and efficient transport of tailings in alignment with deposition plans, environmental and regulatory requirements, and engineering standards.
The Manager will lead a team of operators and technicians while collaborating cross-functionally with environmental, geotechnical, water management, and operations teams to maintain system reliability, facility stability, and regulatory compliance. The role also supports tailings storage facility (TSF) lift construction, reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Lead day-to-day operations of the tailings pump station, including high-pressure and low-pressure pump systems, pipelines, sumps, and distribution infrastructure.
  • Monitor system performance through KPIs such as pump utilization, availability, downtime, and water reclaim efficiency to ensure uninterrupted tailings transport.
  • Ensure compliance with tailings deposition plans, TSF lift schedules, and geotechnical recommendations using monitoring systems such as radar and piezometers.
  • Develop and maintain preventative and predictive maintenance programs for mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
  • Enforce compliance with MSHA, OSHA, and site safety standards through active leadership, inspections, and corrective actions.
  • Respond to operational issues including blockages, leaks, overflows, and equipment failures.
  • Maintain compliance with tailings management standards including GISTM, CDA, and environmental permit requirements.
  • Supervise, train, and develop tailings personnel, including operators, shift leads, and maintenance staff.
  • Collaborate with environmental, geotechnical, and water balance teams to ensure safe and sustainable deposition practices.
  • Participate in budgeting, forecasting, and long-term planning for tailings infrastructure and capital projects.
  • Interface with regulators, auditors, and external stakeholders during inspections and incident response.
  • Maintain accurate operational, safety, and compliance records.
  • Coordinate access and readiness of containment systems, emergency infrastructure, and operational areas.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for cross-functional communication related to tailings system performance and availability.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Strong knowledge of tailings management systems, slurry transport, and deposition practices.
  • Understanding of centrifugal pumps, pipeline hydraulics, instrumentation, and pump station operations.
  • Knowledge of tailings storage facility design, monitoring systems, and geotechnical considerations.
  • Familiarity with MSHA regulations, OSHA standards, and environmental compliance requirements.
  • Experience with monitoring and control systems such as SCADA, CMMS, and operational reporting tools.
  • Knowledge of GISTM and industry best practices for tailings management.
  • Strong leadership and team development skills with the ability to drive a safety-first culture.
  • Ability to analyze performance data and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and with external stakeholders.
  • Ability to manage budgets, resources, and competing operational priorities.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Minimum 7 years of experience in mining operations, including at least 3 years in tailings management or slurry transport systems.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in a high-reliability industrial environment.
  • High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor's degree in engineering or related field preferred.
  • Experience with regulatory compliance and tailings-related environmental requirements.
  • Relevant certifications such as MSHA Part 48, OSHA training, First Aid/CPR, or incident investigation training preferred.
  • English language fluency required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND SCHEDULE
  • Outdoor mine site environment with exposure to varying weather and operating conditions.
  • Physical requirements include walking on uneven terrain, climbing, and working around heavy equipment.
  • Fixed schedule with on-call responsibilities during critical operations or shutdowns.
  • Travel across site infrastructure including tailings facilities, pump stations, and construction zones.

ASARCO LLC provides equal opportunity for all individuals without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, actual or perceived disability, military status, veteran status, marital status, familial status, or any other characteristic(s) protected by local, state, or federal law(s).

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