Strategic Water Utility Executive

mra; Waukesha (WI); On-site; USD 144,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental benefits

Defined benefit pension plan

457(b) deferred compensation plan

Job summary

Waukesha Water Utility is seeking an experienced Water Utility General Manager to provide strategic leadership for operations, engineering, finance, and administration in Waukesha, Wisconsin. The role reports to the Water Commission and drives long-term planning and sustainable service.

The candidate will lead a dedicated workforce, oversee budgets and capital programs, and partner with city leadership and regulatory agencies to ensure safe, reliable water service for the community.

Qualifications

• Ten years of progressively responsible leadership experience in utility operations or a closely related environment.
• Experience leading organizational change and workforce development.
• Strong background in budgeting, financial planning, and capital programs.
• Proven ability to work with governing boards, elected officials, and community stakeholders.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements for public water systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for all water utility functions (operations, engineering, customer service, finance, regulatory compliance, administration).
• Partner with the Water Commission to establish policies, priorities, and long-term goals.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team with a culture of accountability, safety, service, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee annual operating and capital budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation.
• Direct infrastructure planning, asset management, and capital improvement programs.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing public water systems.
• Represent the Utility before the Water Commission, Common Council, regulatory agencies, and community organizations.
• Address customer concerns and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Maintain visible leadership across the organization with regular engagement of Utility staff.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and opportunities to support sustainability and efficiency.

Skills

Executive leadership

Strategic planning

Public administration

Regulatory compliance

Budgeting & finance

Stakeholder engagement

Infrastructure planning

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Waukesha Water Utility is seeking an experienced Water Utility General Manager to provide strategic leadership for operations, engineering, finance, and administration in Waukesha, Wisconsin. The role reports to the Water Commission and drives long-term planning and sustainable service.

The candidate will lead a dedicated workforce, oversee budgets and capital programs, and partner with city leadership and regulatory agencies to ensure safe, reliable water service for the community.