Sr Manager-Technical Programs

American Water Works Association; Denver (CO); Hybrid; USD 108,400 - 136,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work schedules

Comprehensive benefits package

Immediate retirement plan eligibility

Job summary

The American Water Works Association is looking for a Sr Manager of Technical Programs. This role leads the organization's technical program portfolio, focuses on driving industry knowledge, and managing volunteer committees. The ideal candidate will have at least 8 years of experience in the water sector and strong project management skills.

The position offers competitive pay ranging from $108,400 to $136,000 annually, alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible work schedules and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Minimum of eight years related water sector experience strongly preferred.
• Minimum of five years project management experience required.
• Demonstrated understanding of water industry technical and managerial issues.

Responsibilities

• Lead the strategy and delivery of technical programs and educational content.
• Oversee development and management of budgets aligned with goals.
• Represent AWWA externally to promote partnerships and thought leadership.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder management

Data analysis

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field

Master’s degree in related technical or business area

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

MS PowerPoint

MS Outlook

Job description

Dedicated to the World's Most Important Resource

Are you looking for employment with a purpose? Join the team at The American Water Works Association! At AWWA, you’ll find purpose, great benefits, relaxed culture, collaborative colleagues and interesting work. Our mission is providing solutions to effectively manage water, the world’s most vital resource.

We are seeking a Sr Manager of Technical Programs to lead AWWA’s technical program portfolio, advancing industry knowledge, research, and education across the water sector. This role partners with members, volunteers, and internal teams to deliver high-impact content, programs, and insights that support AWWA’s mission and 50,000+ member base.

Essential Functions

• Lead the strategy and delivery of AWWA’s technical programs, research initiatives, and educational content to advance industry knowledge and member value
• Drive continuous improvement across conferences, publications, and learning programs, enhancing quality, efficiency, and member/volunteer engagement
• Provide leadership and direction to our largest volunteer committee, the Technical and Educational Council (TEC), aligning priorities and execution across divisions and committees
• Oversee development and management of TEC budgets and ensure alignment with organizational goals and financial targets
• Develop and execute engagement strategies for members and volunteers, strengthening participation, collaboration, and leadership development
• Oversee research, benchmarking, and data initiatives to generate insights that inform organizational and sector decision‑making
• Build and lead a high‑performing team, driving accountability, development, and cross‑functional collaboration
• Develop and implement clear, consistent communication strategies that connect and engage members, volunteers, and stakeholders across our membership base of 50,000 plus.
• Represent AWWA externally to promote thought leadership, partnerships, and sector influence
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Supervisory Duties

• Lead, coach, and develop direct reports, fostering a high-performance and collaborative team environment
• Manage full employee lifecycle, including hiring, performance management, and development
• Model and reinforce AWWA core competencies in leadership, communication, and accountability

Qualifications

Education, Certification or Formal Training

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, or related professional field required
• Experience in water-related disciplines strongly preferred
• Master’s degree in related technical or business area preferred

Work Experience

• Minimum of eight (8) years’ related water sector experience strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years project management experience required
• Demonstrating understanding of water industry technical, managerial, and financial issues including but not limited to:
  • Knowledge of conducting, analyzing and reporting technical research strongly preferred
  • Demonstrated knowledge of water utility operations strongly preferred
• Cross‑functional program leadership
• Stakeholder and volunteer management
• Data analysis and insight generation
• Strategic planning and execution
• Budget and resource management
• Intermediate computer skills and proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook required

Pay & Benefits

Pay is dependent upon qualifications; Pay range is targeted between $108,400 - $136,000 per year and is paired with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Immediate eligibility and vesting for retirement savings plan with a 3% employer contribution and up to 3% company match upon hire.
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision plans with generous cost sharing by employer.
• Three separate paid time off accounts (Vacation, Sick, and Personal).
• Flexible work schedules (Flex Fridays and Hybrid Remote Work Policy).

Position is open until filled.

Please include cover letter with resume.

As an employer dedicated to equal employment opportunity, minorities, women, veterans and disabled are encouraged to apply.