Director, Water Quality & Environmental Compliance

Job Description

Job Title: Director, Water Quality & Environmental Compliance

Posting Start Date: 7/31/26

Job Description:

Position Information:

$141,390 - $225,350

The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity.

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k),Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professional.

Primary Role

This position is ultimately accountable and responsible for the comprehensive direction and administration of matters dealing with the overall management of laboratories, water quality, environmental stewardship and environmental rules and regulations, including those associated with the Safe Drinking Water Act & Clean Water Act. Makes decisions and recommendations that are recognized as authoritative and have far-reaching impact on environmental activities. Initiates and maintains extensive contacts with key officials and company personnel.

Executes departmental business plans and contributes to the development of functional strategies. Provides feedback to Executive Management for applicable policies and regulations.

Key Accountabilities

• Develops State Water Quality and Environmental monitoring program that ensures Company compliance with regulatory and corporate standards and adherence to measurement and reporting schedules. Develops Environmental Management Plans. Continually reviews developing water quality and environmental regulations, provides input to the local, state and federal regulatory process and ensures that programs are in place to enable compliance and customer satisfaction. Tracks permits related to operation of the business.
• Oversees and directs work of staff and advises other company employees regarding state operations with potential to impact water quality, public health or environmental compliance. Establishes, reviews, approves State water quality related reports and communications, coordination of Consumer Confidence Reports, and water quality operational procedures.
• Interfaces with Corporate Operations Excellence on reporting and coordination of the environmental function. Provides input to Local, State and System management on water quality, public health and environmental matters.
• Provides technical assistance to the state functional units on Water Quality and Environmental issues. Directs the laboratories and other water quality and environmental monitoring and control programs.
• Provide technical advice and assistance with business development opportunities. Investigates new acquisitions and integrates into operations. Serves as an expert witness in legal/ratemaking proceedings.
• Identifies and develops opportunities to enhance the Company’s brand through the development of innovative and sustainable environmental solutions. Identifies and develops reference projects for social responsibly, stewardship and related natural resource programs. Responsible for career development of staff. Develops O&M budget and operates to stay within the budget.
• Oversees and directs company programs to address security of sources, facilities and customers against water quality and other environmental threats. Assist with the development of cross-connection and backflow prevention programs.
  
  

Knowledge/Skills

• Knowledge of water/wastewater operations and water quality monitoring and quality assurance programs. Knowledge of government regulations related to water quality and employee/community safety.
• Knowledge of current and emerging environmental issues.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations impacting water resources and facility operations.
• Knowledge of industry trade organizations to include participation in related activities aimed at improving water quality.
• Knowledge of company goals and objectives. Advanced knowledge to lead and motivate subordinate staff.
  
  

Experience/Education

• Bachelor’s Degree with major in Biology, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Environmental Science or equivalent is required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• A minimum of ten (10) years experience in environmental management of water resources and/or treatment or related technology or process development.
• Experience in the management of people and budgets; development of plans and strategies. Advanced degrees could be considered as a substitution for a portion of experience.
• Previous experience managing a team is required
  
  

Travel Requirements

• Travel may be 25% or more
• Must be able to cover a large geographical area of responsibility.
• This position is eligible to sit at any of the CA American Water offices except for San Diego.
• Position will be onsite, 5 days in office
  
  

Competencies

Builds Effective Teams & Network

Drives Safety Culture

Drives Vision & Purpose

Persuades

Political & Organizational Savvy

Situational Adaptability

Strategic & Learning Agility