Water Operations and Project Manager

Job Title: Water/Wastewater Operations & Maintenance Project Manager

Salary: $77,000 - $110,000 annually

Schedule: Full-Time, Typically Monday through Friday with availability for emergency response and on-call duties as required

Overview:

Operational Technical Services (OTS) is one of the fastest-growing private water and wastewater utility staffing providers in the country. We are dedicated to connecting municipalities, districts, and private utilities with skilled professionals who ensure safe, efficient, and compliant water and wastewater operations. We are currently seeking a highly experienced Water/Wastewater O&M Project Manager to lead critical facility operations in Montgomery County, IL. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to manage a dynamic team, oversee large-scale projects, and optimize system performance for the benefit of the community’s water infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the daily operations and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment facilities, lift stations, and related infrastructure, supervising a team of seven union employees.
• Coordinate and communicate effectively with operations staff, maintenance crews, client representatives, contractors, and engineering firms.
• Drive system optimization through effective management and development of staff, implementation of asset management programs, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards.
• Manage routine and capital repair projects, ensuring timely completion, safety, and budget compliance.
• Respond to emergencies, including process upsets, equipment failures, alarms, and force majeure events, ensuring swift resolution.
• Oversee the health and safety program, ensuring compliance with OSHA, DOT, and other safety requirements.
• Operate and manage SCADA systems and CMMS to monitor and control plant processes.
• Maintain compliance reporting to regulatory agencies and the client, ensuring all permits and reports are accurate and submitted on time.
• Develop, track, and manage the project and operational budgets, ensuring financial performance aligns with organizational goals.
• Participate in community and stakeholder engagement activities, representing the program at meetings and supporting local initiatives.
• Foster team development through hiring, training, and supporting staff, ensuring a high-performing, compliant, and safety-conscious work environment.

Requirements:

• Valid Illinois Class A Water Treatment Operator license and/or Class 1 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator license or the ability to obtain through reciprocity.
• 10 to 15 years of experience managing complex water and wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
• Proven leadership skills, with experience supervising staff, supporting team development, and supporting a safety-first environment.
• Extensive knowledge of SCADA systems, CMMS, and predictive maintenance strategies.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and experience liaising with regulators.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated financial literacy, including managing operational and capital budgets.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including shift work, weekends, and holidays, as operational needs dictate.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to pass background checks, pre-employment physical, and drug screenings.

Physical Requirements:

• Capable of performing heavy lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Able to work in adverse environmental conditions, including exposure to hazardous substances, weather extremes, and noise.
• Ability to work shift, weekend, and holiday schedules as needed.

Must Haves For Role:

• Meets the health and physical condition standards deemed necessary and proper for performance of these duties.
• Is able to be exposed to hazardous conditions.
• Is able to work shift, weekend and holiday schedules.
• Has ability to perform heavy lifting up to 50 lbs and other manual work under adverse conditions.

Operational Technical Services (OTS) is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colors, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Are you ready to lead critical water and wastewater operations while making a positive impact on the community? Apply now to join our team of dedicated professionals and help shape the future of vital water infrastructure.