Program Manager (Water Plant Manager)

WICHITA COMPANY LIMITED; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Wichita seeks a Program Manager to oversee the startup and operations of a new water treatment plant. This key leadership role involves ensuring regulatory compliance, driving operational excellence, and delivering safe drinking water to the community. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in water utility operations and strong supervisory skills.

Benefits

Vacation

Holidays

Sick Leave

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Retirement Plans

Flexible Spending Accounts

Qualifications

• Three years supervisory experience in a utility or industrial plant.
• Knowledge of federal and state water safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee startup and operations of a new water treatment plant.
• Ensure compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.
• Supervise staff and evaluate performance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data Analysis

Budgeting

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field

Tools

SCADA

GIS

Job description

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Distinguishing Features of Work

Are you ready to take on a key leadership role in Wichita’s water utility operations? The City of Wichita seeks a Plant Manager for the Pumping and Production Division to oversee the startup and operations of a new water treatment plant. As the Operator in Responsible Charge, you'll deliver safe, high-quality drinking water to over half a million residents. This role offers a unique opportunity to be involved in Kansas's largest drinking water plant startup, drive operational excellence, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster innovation in public utility services. You will supervise staff, oversee treatment operations, collaborate across divisions, and participate in strategic decisions to ensure reliable water supply.

Current Openings: Workdays and Hours - Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm

Bargaining Unit: Employee Council

Examples of Work Performed

• Develops and maintains processes to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Directs treatment and testing procedures for water quality.
• Establishes policies and oversees operations and maintenance of the water treatment plant and pump station.
• Troubleshoots complex treatment issues and directs corrective actions.
• Coordinates plant activities to minimize disruptions.
• Collaborates with Distribution division to maintain water quality and pressure.
• Develops budgets and controls expenditures.
• Plans and schedules projects in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
• Oversees contractor activities for complex projects.
• Ensures quality control and compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.
• Optimizes systems through modeling and scenario planning.
• Implements safety programs and ensures safety regulation compliance.
• Supervises shift staff and evaluates performance.
• Prepares specifications and requisitions for supplies and equipment.
• Conducts research and provides consulting services.
• Assumes responsibilities of the Water Production and Supply Division Manager in their absence.
• Monitors weather and forecasts water needs.

Requirements of Work

• Must have access to a communication device with internet and voice/text/email capabilities; city provides a phone allowance.
• Knowledge of federal and state water safety regulations.
• Thorough understanding of large water system operations.
• Ability to analyze and resolve facility problems.
• Knowledge of hydraulics, water treatment principles, and related engineering concepts.
• Familiarity with pumps, analyzers, and treatment equipment.
• Understanding of biology and chemistry as they relate to water treatment.
• Knowledge of electronic instrumentation and data systems like SCADA and GIS.
• Ability to interpret complex data and perform statistical analysis.
• Skills in public administration and budgeting.
• Effective planning, organizing, and supervisory skills.
• Proficiency in computer use, spreadsheets, and data analysis.
• Ability to tolerate environmental nuisances and physical activity requirements.
• Physical ability to walk, climb, bend, lift, and interpret technical manuals and regulations.
• Strong communication skills and ability to develop professional relationships.
• Valid Kansas driver’s license and ability to work up to 24/7 support if needed.

Required Experience and Training

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field or equivalent work experience in water utility.
• Three years supervisory experience in a utility or industrial plant.
• Kansas Class IV Water Supply System Operator certification or equivalent, with ability to obtain Kansas reciprocity within six months if certified elsewhere.
• Valid Kansas driver’s license and legal work authorization in the U.S.

Preferred Experience and Training

• Master’s degree.
• Eight or more years supervisory experience in utility or industrial settings.
• Experience leading capital projects, plant startups, and compliance audits.

Offers are contingent on physical, drug, and background checks. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. Additional benefits include vacation, holidays, sick leave, health/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement plans, flexible spending accounts, and other employee services.