Assistant Deputy Director, Utilities & Engineering

American Water Works Association; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

American Water Works Association seeks a senior leader to manage POTW and utility infrastructure programs for a North Carolina county. You will oversee water, wastewater, and distribution systems, guiding executive-level decisions with county leadership and regulatory compliance.

You will lead staff, budgets, and capital improvement initiatives to ensure reliable utility services for residents. The role requires PE licensure and extensive experience in utility engineering, project oversight, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering.
• 7+ years of utility engineering/public works experience.
• 3–5 years of supervisory/management experience.
• Current NC Professional Engineer (P.E.) credentials.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operation and maintenance of water, wastewater, and distribution systems.
• Provide executive guidance to County Administration and Board of County Commissioners.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Develop budget, staffing plans, and cost forecasts for utility programs.
• Lead CIP planning, procurement, construction, and project oversight.
• Administer professional service and construction contracts and procurement processes.
• Support emergency preparedness and disaster response efforts.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Regulatory knowledge

Communication

Project management

Field inspections

Stakeholder relations

Budget management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering

Professional Engineer (P.E.) licensure

Tools

Project management systems

MS Office

Data dashboards

Job description

American Water Works Association seeks a senior leader to manage POTW and utility infrastructure programs for a North Carolina county. You will oversee water, wastewater, and distribution systems, guiding executive-level decisions with county leadership and regulatory compliance.

You will lead staff, budgets, and capital improvement initiatives to ensure reliable utility services for residents. The role requires PE licensure and extensive experience in utility engineering, project oversight, and