Drainage & Waste Water Collection Crew Chief

City of Seattle; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Seattle Public Utilities is seeking an experienced leader to supervise Drainage and Wastewater crews. This role involves overseeing operations, ensuring quality and safety, and managing staff. Ideal candidates will have relevant field experience and certifications, along with strong communication and planning skills.

Benefits

Comprehensive health coverage

Paid leave

Retirement options

Qualifications

• Four years of experience in sewerage and drainage systems, including one year of lead experience.
• PACP certification and CIPP experience preferred.
• Valid Washington Driver’s License required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise installation, maintenance, and repair of drainage and wastewater infrastructure.
• Monitor work quality and safety compliance.
• Train and coach staff on procedures and efficiencies.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Planning and scheduling

Work analysis

Education

Certification as a Wastewater Collection Specialist Level Two (WWC-II)

Four years of operating experience

Tools

Maximo

ArcGIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

An online application including resume, cover letter, and response to the supplemental questionnaire must be fully completed for consideration.

Seattle Public Utilities is seeking an experienced leader to supervise Drainage and Wastewater (DWW) crews. The DWW Line of Business manages over 2100 miles of conveyance facilities for urban runoff and wastewater, aiming to prevent sewer backups, reduce flood damage, and improve water quality and habitat in Seattle's waterways.

The DWW System Maintenance Division operates 24/7, requiring the candidate to work all shifts (Night, Swing, Days) and be on Standby Duty for at least four weeks annually. The role supervises 6 to 15 staff, making decisions on staffing, resources, policies, and workflows. Reporting to a Drainage and Wastewater Systems Maintenance Manager, the candidate will:

1. Provide leadership in installation, maintenance, and repair of drainage and wastewater infrastructure.
2. Monitor and review work to ensure quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
3. Utilize work order systems, GIS, and mapping tools for planning and workload management.
4. Conduct field inspections and develop standard operating procedures.
5. Train and coach staff, seek efficiencies, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.
6. Handle customer complaints, prepare reports, and coordinate activities with other departments and contractors.

Requirements include four years of operating experience in sewerage and drainage systems, including one year of lead experience. A combination of education, training, and experience may substitute for formal education. Certification as a Wastewater Collection Specialist Level Two (WWC-II) within one year is required, along with a valid Washington Driver’s License. Crane certification may be necessary.

The ideal candidate will have drainage and wastewater field experience, PACP certification, CIPP experience, knowledge of the wastewater industry, and proficiency with relevant software such as Maximo, ArcGIS, and Microsoft Office. Strong communication skills and the ability to plan, schedule, and analyze work are essential.

Work environment involves both office and field work, often in inclement weather and heavy traffic, requiring PPE and physical activity like standing and bending.

Application must include a completed online form, resume, and cover letter addressing relevant experience. Selected candidates may undergo skill testing and interviews. Background checks and pre-employment requirements apply.

The salary range is $53.56 - $60.66 per hour. Benefits include comprehensive health coverage, paid leave, and retirement options. More details are available on the City’s website.

Seattle encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and values equity and inclusion in its hiring process. For questions, contact Uma Suseelan at [e-mail]. Learn more about Seattle Public Utilities at www.seattle.gov/util/.