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Water Utility Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Notify Water Utility Manager or Lead Purification Plant Operator in the event of major breakdowns. Determine most efficient plant operation parameters by observing and interpreting treatment results.

WATER PLANT OPERATOR

Cudahy, WI · On-site

$28.78 - $35.50/hr

Notify Water Utility Manager or Lead Purification Plant Operator in the event of major breakdowns. Determine most efficient plant operation parameters by observing and interpreting treatment results.

Water Utility Supervisor

Marysville, WA · On-site

$120K - $151K/yr

... Water Utility Division, including supervising the division's employees, coordinating assigned ... Water Distribution Manager 3 certification required upon hire, Water Distribution Manager 4 ...

Develop and manage the water utility capital and engineering budgets. Work closely to support water utility operations and maintenance staff. Provide review of development and capital projects.

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Water Utility/Supply Operator

Aztec, NM · On-site

$20.19 - $25.30/hr

Overview Join our dynamic team as a Water Utility/Supply Operator and become a vital part of ... Manage heavy equipment operation including backhoes and dump trucks. * Perform construction ...

Water Utility Engineer

Auburn, WA · On-site

$131K - $161K/yr

Develop and manage the water utility capital and engineering budgets. * Work closely to support water utility operations and maintenance staff. * Provide review of development and capital projects.

Water Utility Operator II

Oro Valley, AZ · On-site

$45K - $51K/yr

Water Utility Opening Date: 03/25/2026 Closing Date: Continuous POSITION SUMMARY First review of ... Skill in computerized data base management. * Skill in operating and maintaining a variety of ...

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Water Utility Manager information

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$35.5K

$102.3K

$165K

How much do water utility manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for water utility manager in the United States is $102,286.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $129,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectWater Utility ManagerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsOften requires a degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field; certifications like CWEA or state licensesHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications such as CWEA Operator Certification
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, field inspections, management of staff and operationsPlant facilities, operational control rooms, field work at treatment sites
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, utility companies, government agenciesWater treatment facilities, municipal water plants, private water companies

The Water Utility Manager oversees overall water services, staff, and compliance, focusing on management and planning. In contrast, the Water Treatment Plant Operator handles daily plant operations, equipment maintenance, and water quality control. Both roles are essential in water industry operations but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Utility Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Utility Manager, you need expertise in water resource management, regulatory compliance, and operational oversight, typically supported by a degree in engineering or environmental science. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality monitoring tools, and relevant certifications such as a Water Operator license is common. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and interact with stakeholders effectively. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe water delivery, regulatory adherence, and efficient utility operations.

What are Water Utility Managers?

Water Utility Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the operations of water supply systems, ensuring that clean and safe water is delivered to homes, businesses, and communities. They manage staff, budgets, infrastructure maintenance, regulatory compliance, and emergency responses related to water distribution and quality. Their role is crucial for public health and environmental sustainability, as they coordinate efforts to maintain and improve water systems while meeting government standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Utility Managers, and how can job seekers prepare to address them?

Water Utility Managers often face challenges such as ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining aging infrastructure, and balancing budget constraints while delivering reliable service. Job seekers can prepare by familiarizing themselves with local and federal water regulations, developing strong project management skills, and staying updated on advancements in water treatment technologies. Collaborating effectively with engineers, field staff, and regulatory agencies is crucial, as is the ability to communicate technical information clearly to both internal teams and the public.
What cities are hiring for Water Utility Manager jobs? Cities with the most Water Utility Manager job openings:
What states have the most Water Utility Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Utility Manager jobs include:

$143K - $215K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Waukesha Water Utility is seeking an experienced, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as its next Water Utility General Manager. Reporting directly to the Water Commission, this position is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the Utility while ensuring the continued delivery of safe, reliable, and sustainable water service to the community.


This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a respected public water utility. The Water Utility General Manager will play a key role in shaping the Utility’s future through long-term planning, infrastructure investment, workforce development, and operational excellence, including leadership during a planned transition to a new facility and exploration of future service collaborative opportunities.


The successful candidate will be a visible and engaged leader, comfortable working with the Water Commission, City leadership, department heads, Utility staff, customers, and community stakeholders. This individual will regularly present information, respond to public inquiries, and represent the Utility in a variety of professional and community settings.


Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all water utility functions, including operations, engineering, customer service, finance, regulatory compliance, and administration

• Partner with the Water Commission to establish policies, priorities, and long-term strategic goals

• Lead and develop a high-performing team while fostering a culture of accountability, safety, service, and continuous improvement

• Oversee annual operating and capital budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation

• Direct infrastructure planning, asset management, and capital improvement programs

• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations governing public water systems

• Represent the Utility before the Water Commission, Common Council, regulatory agencies, and community organizations

• Address customer concerns and maintain strong relationships with community stakeholders

• Maintain a visible leadership presence across the organization, including regular engagement with Utility staff

• Evaluate emerging technologies, operational improvements, and long-term service opportunities to support sustainability and efficiency


Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Public Administration, Business Administration, Environmental Science, Utility Management, or a related field

• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible leadership experience in utility operations or a closely related utility environment

• At least six (6) years of senior management or executive-level leadership experience

• Demonstrated experience in infrastructure planning, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and organizational leadership

• Experience working with and presenting to governing boards, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and public stakeholders

• Strong understanding of utility infrastructure, engineering principles, capital improvement planning, and asset management


Preferred qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Engineering or related field

• Experience leading organizational change


Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary range: $143,620 – $215,431 (commensurate with qualifications and experience)

• Health and dental benefits

• Participation in a defined benefit pension plan and an optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan


The Waukesha Water Utility is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.