Strategic Water Utility General Manager

MRA Recruiting Services; Waukesha (WI); On-site; USD 144,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & dental benefits

Defined benefit pension + 457(b) plan

Job summary

The Waukesha Water Utility seeks an experienced, strategic leader to become its Water Utility General Manager, responsible for overall leadership, management, and direction of the Utility to ensure safe, reliable water service. You will guide operations, engineering, finance, and regulatory compliance while partnering with the Water Commission and community stakeholders.

The successful candidate will lead a dedicated workforce, present information to the Water Commission and city leadership, and

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience in utility operations
• 6+ years of senior management or executive leadership experience
• Experience with infrastructure planning, asset management, budgeting, and regulatory compliance
• Experience presenting to governing boards, elected officials, and public stakeholders

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for all water utility functions including operations, engineering, customer service, finance, and administration
• Partner with the Water Commission to set policies, priorities, and long-term goals
• Lead a high-performing team and foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement
• Oversee annual operating and capital budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation
• Direct infrastructure planning 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 stakeholder relationships
• Maintain visible leadership across the organization and engage with Utility staff
• Evaluate emerging technologies and opportunities to support sustainability and efficiency

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Regulatory compliance

Budgeting

Board/official presentations

Change management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Engineering, Environmental Science, Utility Management, or related field

Job description

The Waukesha Water Utility seeks an experienced, strategic leader to become its Water Utility General Manager, responsible for overall leadership, management, and direction of the Utility to ensure safe, reliable water service. You will guide operations, engineering, finance, and regulatory compliance while partnering with the Water Commission and community stakeholders.

The successful candidate will lead a dedicated workforce, present information to the Water Commission and city leadership, and