Water Utility Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Deadline to Apply: Friday, July 31st by 4:30 pm

JOB INFORMATION

Job Title: General Manager - Marion Water Department

Department: Water

Reports to: Board of Trustees

Location: Water Department

FLSA Status: Exempt

Overtime Status: No Paid Overtime

JOB SUMMARY

The General Manager reports directly to a 5-member board of trustees who are appointed by the mayor and approved by the City Council. The General Manager oversees daily operations, financial management, strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and customer service while maintaining strong relationships with employees, customers, contractors, other city departments and community stakeholders. The General Manager is committed to serving the public and combining operational knowledge, sound decision-making and financial stewardship to meet the future needs of Marion's growing community. 

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED

Under General Direction of the Board of Trustees:

• Formulate and review Rules and Regulations and applicable Standard Specifications of the Board.
• Oversee department supervisors in their operational tasks and maintenance of the water treatment plants; water distribution system, and the department office. 
• Coordinate State and Federal requirements with the operations of the Utility.
• Manage and plan for financial, capital, natural, and human resources of the water department.
• Follow Marion Water Department personnel policies.
• Implement, direct and coordinate policies as established by the Board of Trustees.
• Solicit feedback from water department personnel to prepare an annual budget for Board review and approval that meets the operating, capital, and financial needs of the department.
• Supervise and report financial and operational status of the department to the Board.
• Review water rates and projected cash flows annually and provide recommendations of adjustments to the Board.
• Manage capital and financial plans to allow for efficient maintenance and growth of the water system to meet the demands of the citizens and business of the city of Marion.
• Review and approve construction and site plans as needed.
• Serve as Secretary to the Board of Trustees and ensure safekeeping of all official documents, contracts, and Board meeting minutes. 
• Serve as the Hearing Officer in the event of personnel matters or customer complaints. 
• Review and approve expenditures prior to payment.
• Oversee monthly bank statements and present the monthly fund balance report to the Board.
• Supervise the department's public relations efforts, including dissemination of the bi-annual Consumer Confidence Report. 
• Represent the department in the community, as a public spoke person as all times - including outside of normal working hours. 
  
• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

• Ability to foster strong relationships with industry peers, policy makers, Water and City Department Supervisors/Employees, and stakeholders in other organizations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with knowledge or public relations principles and techniques.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituents in a diverse community.
• Possess regulatory knowledge and an understanding of the water industry.
• Possess knowledge of contracting, negotiating and change orders.
• Skilled in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures.
• Ability to analyze and interpret financial data, develop financial plans and manage resources.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, develop employees, and promote equitable, inclusive workplace practices.
• Demonstrate respect, appreciation, and effective working relationships with Water and other City Department Leadership.
• Skilled in collaborating with and informing a diverse Board, multiple committees, and community stakeholders on water issues, concerns and priorities.
• Extensive knowledge of water system practices and procedures, including knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations.
• Possess knowledge of scientific and engineering principles related to water utility operations, infrastructure, and compliance. 
• Strong understanding of Cost-of-Service methodologies and utility accounting practices. 
• Possess knowledge of technology architecture, information systems, and business applications that support utility operations and business functions.
• Proficient in utilizing Microsoft Suite, including Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook., Adobe Acrobat, AI CoPilot/GOV.ai.
• Proficient in utilizing Teams/Zoom.
• Proficient in utilizing office equipment such as printer/copier, fax, laptop/computer/tablet, and smart phone.
• Ability to utilize GIS, budgeting software, and AutoCAD. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Science, Finance, Public Administration, Business Administration or related field and/or years of progressive utility program management experience including administrative and supervisory responsibility required. Advance degree in Engineering, Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Water industry or public sector experience preferred.
• Active participation within professional water organizations preferred.
• Reside within the metro area preferred.
• Valid State of Iowa Driver's license with good driving record.

REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS

• Criminal Background Check
• Sex Offender Registry Check
• Driving Record Check
• Drug Screen