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Water Utility Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... water utility to recruit a Civil Engineer - Water Distribution & Infrastructure for their Chico ... Manage projects through the full lifecycle: concept, design, procurement, construction, and ...

Water Division Manager

South Gate, CA · On-site

$132K - $161K/yr

Plans, manages, organizes, inspects, oversees and evaluates the daily functions, operations, installation and maintenance of the City's water utility systems including water treatment, distribution ...

Working directly with water, wastewater, and stormwater organizations, you will design and ... Ability to connect utility business workflows (asset management, field operations, data management ...

Working directly with water, wastewater, and stormwater organizations, you will design and ... Ability to connect utility business workflows (asset management, field operations, data management ...

WATER RESOURCES ANALYST

Riverside, CA · On-site

$103K - $125K/yr

... management, water supply planning, and other water resources and water utility tasks; compile related water data; monitor grant activities and report data related to water planning programs. The ...

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Showing results 1-20

Water Utility Manager information

See California salary details

$35K

$100.9K

$162.8K

How much do water utility manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for water utility manager in California is $100,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $127,300.00 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?

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 is a water utility manager?

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 in California are hiring for Water Utility Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Water Utility Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Utility Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,946 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

$115K - $176K/yr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


California Water Service rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

California Water Service

Job Description:

California Water Service Group invites you to build a meaningful career with the thirdlargest publicly traded water utility. Guided by our mission to be the leading provider of water and wastewater services, we are dedicated to improving quality of life for the customers, communities, and employees we serve. Our culture is grounded in core values-integrity, service, value, health and safety, respect and collaboration, and corporate citizenship-and reflected in our recognition as a Top Workplace, a Great Place to Work, and a J.D. Power leader in customer satisfaction for multiple years. Join Cal Water and be part of a purposedriven organization where your work makes a lasting impact.
The Water Utility Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and delivering capital projects. These projects include wells, storage tanks, pump stations, pressure tanks, pipelines and treatment plants. Projects may be new installations or modifications to existing facilities. This position is located in San Jose, California.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Plan and design capital projects based on Cal Water standards and specifications.

  • Oversees the progress of construction or consultant work, change orders, invoices, inspection/validation and requests for information (RFI).

  • Meets with districts to schedule, obtain basic permits, and coordinate proposed work and projects.

  • Prepares permit submittals and communicates with permitting agencies.

  • Prepares and reviews bid specifications.

  • Reviews drawings and works with technicians to prepare drawings for typical infrastructure improvements.

  • Develops and monitors the scope, schedule, and budget for assigned projects.

  • Utilizes Company financial software to accurately monitor project costs during and at the end of construction.

  • Assists in planning and preparing projects and for the Company's capital budget and Public Utility Commission (PUC) rate case filings including cost estimating and justification for projects, as well as data requests, tours, rebuttal, and settlement support.

  • Assesses and analyze basic problems to recommend corrective actions.

  • Reviews the legal description of easements and properties for proposed facilities.

  • Assists in developing water distribution system long term plans.

  • Organizes and attends meetings with other Cal Water staff members and public agencies to assess problems and determine solutions.

  • Conducts research on existing infrastructure using databases, maps, drawings, photos and paper files.

  • Performs engineering calculations/civil design analysis to solve problems.

  • Conducts project safety planning and develops project safety documentation.

  • Performs work on site at assigned location.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor of Science degree (4 years) in Civil, or Mechanical Engineering or related field from an ABET accredited college or university.

  • Master's Degree or other advanced specialty certification desirable.

  • Engineering in Training Certificate (EIT) desirable or Professional Engineering License (PE) in California preferred.

  • Project management professional (PMP) certification desirable.

  • Minimum of two (2) years prior experience in design and management of water distribution or treatment system projects or related experience within the water, wastewater, or oil and gas fields.

  • Prior experience in design and management of water treatment system projects is preferred.

  • Good working knowledge of English and ability to effectively communicate with their supervisor, co-workers and the public.

  • Ability to read and understand general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.

  • Ability to write clear and concise reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.

  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers.

  • Ability to communicate and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

  • Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, presentation and e-mail applications.

  • Ability to perform accurate engineering or water supply, demand and reliability calculations.

  • Exercises good judgement to prioritize assignments and work in order of urgency and sensitivity.

  • Ability to apply engineering principles and theory.

  • Ability to apply pertinent laws, regulations and codes applicable to primary job functions.

  • Basic project management skills, including creating and monitoring schedules and budgets.

  • Knowledge of water and waste water systems desired.

  • Valid California Driver's License required.

Salary Range: $115,058.42 - $176,959.38 (DOE)

Deadline to submit resume is: OPEN UNTIL FILLED.

The Equal Opportunity Policy of the Company is based upon the philosophy that all people should be treated fairly and with dignity. California Water Service, Hawaii Water Service, New Mexico Water Serviceand Washington Water Servicedo not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected class. The Company makes all employment decisions in a non-discriminatory manner. EOE, VET, DISABILITIES.


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