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Water Project Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Watch Our Story:' HDR's Michigan Water Business Group is growing, and we are looking for experienced Project Managers to help lead our program forward. This is an exciting opportunity to join our ...

Watch Our Story:' HDR's Michigan Water Business Group is growing, and we are looking for experienced Project Managers to help lead our program forward. This is an exciting opportunity to join our ...

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Water Project Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$33.6K

$89.5K

$141.2K

How much do water project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for water project manager in Michigan is $89,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,400.00 and $107,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a water project manager typically collaborate with engineers and local authorities during project execution?

A Water Project Manager works closely with engineers to ensure that technical specifications and design plans align with project goals, budgets, and timelines. They also coordinate with local authorities to secure necessary permits, address regulatory requirements, and facilitate community engagement. Regular meetings, site visits, and progress reports are common ways these professionals collaborate, helping to identify challenges early and ensure smooth project delivery. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential in managing these multi-stakeholder relationships.

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

To thrive as a Water Project Manager, you need expertise in civil or environmental engineering, strong project management abilities, and a relevant degree, often supported by PMP certification. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project), GIS tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Excellent leadership, stakeholder communication, and problem-solving skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring water projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in accordance with environmental and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Water Project Manager vs Water Engineer?

AspectWater Project ManagerWater Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Environmental Engineering or related; PMP certification often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Civil, Environmental Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often required
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, manages teams, coordinates with stakeholdersDesigns, analyzes, and develops water systems, often in labs or field sites
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, government agencies, consulting firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, research institutions

While both roles focus on water systems, the Water Project Manager primarily oversees project execution and team coordination, whereas the Water Engineer concentrates on designing and analyzing water infrastructure. Both roles require relevant engineering credentials and often work within the same industries, but their daily responsibilities differ significantly.

What does a water project manager do?

A Water Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of water-related projects such as water treatment plants, pipelines, and distribution systems. They coordinate with engineers, contractors, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulations. Their responsibilities include budgeting, scheduling, risk management, and ensuring that the project meets quality and environmental standards. Effective communication and leadership are essential skills for this role.
What are popular job titles related to Water Project Manager jobs in Michigan? For Water Project Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Water Project Manager job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,497 per year, or $43 per hour.

Manager Water (Project Manager Leader)

NSF

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Account Management Leader will guide the Account Management team to ensure the delivery of exceptional service, client satisfaction, and long-term partnerships. This role involves managing a high-performing team, overseeing client relationships, and working closely with cross-functional teams to meet or exceed the assigned annual budget. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a strategic mindset, and a proven track record in account management and client services.

With a legacy spanning more than 80 years, NSF leverages science and innovation to improve human and planet health. We provide science-driven, independent testing, inspection, certification, and advisory services and develop the very standards that drive the food, water, and life sciences industries worldwide. We empower our clients to navigate shifting regulations to improve consumer health, safety, and quality of life.

One of our core values is We Are One NSF. This means that while we're one team, we embrace the cultural, ethnic, language, and demographic diversity that reflects the societies in which we live and work.

Come join a team that makes a difference in the world. More information about NSF can be found at nsf.org.

NSF is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives: Please note that NSF is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies/search firms for this role. Resumes submitted to an NSF employee by a third-party agency without a valid written & signed search agreement between NSF and said third-party agency will become the sole property of NSF. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral. Thank you.

NSF sets the global standard for quality, performance and safety of water products and systems with an extensive range of testing, certification and consulting serves. We continually strive to address emerging needs, empowering manufacturers to meet stringent regulatory requirements with confidence. With our expanding local presence in key regions, we ensure more efficient pathways for our clients to reach global markets while continuing to anticipate and respond to the evolving challenges of water safety.
  •  Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field (or equivalent work experience).
  •  Experience: 5+ years of experience in account management, client services, or related fields
  • Proven experience in leading teams directly or indirectly, focusing on people or process leadership.
  • Strong understanding of sales processes, customer relationship management, and service delivery.

Skills & Competencies:

  •  Exceptional leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills.
  •  Strategic thinker with the ability to translate client needs into actionable plans.
  •  Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present to senior executives.
  •  Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage client escalations effectively.
  •  Proficient in CRM systems and account management tools (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot).

 Other Requirements:

  •  Ability to travel occasionally (if applicable).
  •  Self-motivated, results-driven, and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  •  Ability to work hybrid out of Ann Arbor

Preferred qualifications:

  •  3+ years demonstrated experience in successfully leading teams
  •  5+ years of direct industry experience (i.e. TIC industry, etc.)
  • Team Leadership & Development:
    • Lead and mentor a team of account managers, providing guidance, training, and performance management.
    • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team.
    • Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to ensure team success and personal development.
  • Business Results:
    • Implement strategies to meet or exceed annual budget
    • Ensure that customer certification projects are delivered accurately and within established turn around times to drive customer satisfaction and retention
  • Client Relationship Management:
    • Understand clients' business objectives, challenges, and opportunities to deliver tailored solutions and strategic value.
    • Lead strategic account planning sessions to ensure the achievement of client goals and alignment with the company's offerings.
  • Revenue Growth & Retention:
    • Drive account growth through upselling, cross-selling, and identifying new business opportunities within existing accounts.
    • Develop and execute strategies to improve client retention, minimize churn, and increase customer lifetime value.
    • Represent NSF by attending industry trade show events, association events, government agency meetings, etc. 
  • Operational Excellence:
    • Oversee the day-to-day activities of the account management team, ensuring smooth execution of client deliverables and service expectations.
    • Develop and track KPIs to measure client satisfaction, account performance, and team productivity.
    • Address and resolve client escalations in a timely and professional manner.
  • Collaboration & Cross-Functional Engagement:
    • Partner with internal teams to ensure a seamless client experience and the successful implementation of projects.
    • Act as the voice of the client within the organization, providing valuable insights into customer needs, feedback, and industry trends.
  • Strategic Reporting & Insights:
    • Prepare and present regular reports on account performance, growth opportunities, and market dynamics to senior leadership.
    • Provide actionable insights and recommendations based on client data and feedback to drive long-term success.

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