Public Utilities Chief - Water & Wastewater

Athens Clarke County; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 131,000 - 156,000; Full time

Job summary

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, GA seeks a Director of Public Utilities, the chief executive of the water and wastewater utility, responsible for safe drinking water, regulatory compliance, and the financial health of the enterprise fund.

This leader guides 200+ employees, sets strategic direction, and advises the Manager, Mayor, and Commission on rates, capital investment, growth, and water policy, representing ACCGov with regulators and the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering required; seven years of water/wastewater design and operations experience; two years in senior management; or equivalent.
• Five years of supervisory experience required.
• Valid driver's license required.
• PE license preferred; reciprocity within 90 days acceptable.
• Master's degree preferred; Class I Water or Wastewater Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Executive Leadership and Strategy: set department vision, plan, and performance measures; lead managers and staff; develop succession plans.
• Operations and Compliance: ensure drinking water and wastewater operations meet all applicable laws and permit conditions; manage assets and preventive maintenance.
• Financial Management and Capital Planning: prepare budgets; develop rates; manage capital program financing; oversee Water Billing Office; implement bill pay assistance.
• Environmental Protection and Resilience: lead emergency response; promote energy efficiency and renewable energy integration; manage drought response and conservation.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Public relations

Financial management

Regulatory compliance

Emergency response

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Georgia PE license preferred

Tools

GIS

SCADA

Hydraulic modeling

Job description

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, GA seeks a Director of Public Utilities, the chief executive of the water and wastewater utility, responsible for safe drinking water, regulatory compliance, and the financial health of the enterprise fund.

This leader guides 200+ employees, sets strategic direction, and advises the Manager, Mayor, and Commission on rates, capital investment, growth, and water policy, representing ACCGov with regulators and the community.