Superintendent, Field Operations

American Water; Joplin (MO); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

American Water in Missouri seeks a Superintendent, Field Operations to lead daily water and wastewater field activities, ensuring safety, compliance, and service quality across a regional team of nine union members. This role directs operations, coordinates maintenance and construction within budgets, and ensures policies meet governmental standards while delivering reliable utility service.

You will manage permits, training, and development, foster teamwork, and communicate clearly with

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 2–5 years leadership in utility operations.
• Knowledge of water regulations and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Supervise regional water/wastewater operations and maintenance.
• Ensure safety, policy adherence, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage permits, licenses, and rights of way as needed.
• Lead and develop a team, including union workers, within budget.

Skills

Water regulations

Leadership

Union management

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Job description

Job Title: Superintendent, Field Operations

Posting Start Date: 10/2/26

Primary Role

Supervises the day-to-day water and/or wastewater operations in accordance with Company policies and procedures and all applicable governmental laws and regulations.

Key Accountabilities

• Supervise and coordinate regional construction, operations, and maintenance within established budget limitations. (10%)
• Assures policies, procedures, programs and performance are adhered to ensure the continuing and increasing operational efficiency, effectiveness, and profitability. (10%)
• Train and develop personnel in proper operational integrity (quality, environment, reliability, health, safety, security, etc.) is maintained. (10%)
• Obtains all required permits, licenses, rights of way, etc. required for proper compliance. (10%)
• May be involved in customer service related issues. (10%)
• Implement and foster the coaching and development of employees, including idea generation, within respective functional areas. (10%)
• Support the Business Development function in the operational analysis pricing and integration of water and wastewater business opportunities in both the regulated and non-regulated markets Supports manager to ensure effective people management policies and practices are developed and implemented (e.g., time and attendance, workforce management, etc.) and ensure resources are developed and deployed appropriately.
• Continue to reinforce the importance of developing a diverse workforce.
• Work collaboratively with other functional leads to mitigate business risks.
• Implement effective communications at all levels of our operations. Provide effective leadership that will enhance our abilities to be flexible to changing business environments. Contribute to effective communication by listening and providing constructive feedback; supporting the creation of an open and honest work environment; cascading and sharing knowledge and information relevant to other members of the team and colleagues across the business. (40%)

Knowledge/Skills

• Knowledge of the regulated water business and the regulations impacting the business.
• Knowledge of process and operational areas.
• Knowledge of union contracts and the ability to lead union workers.
• Knowledge of regulatory and compliance standards in the water utilities industry.

Experience/Education

• Bachelors or equivalent experience
• Minimum 2-5 years experience in leadership utility operations.

Schedule/Work Environment

• Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm
• Leads a team of 9 union members
• Indoor and outdoor environment.
• 24/7 Operations
• Local and occasional regional travel

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid State drivers license with the ability to pass a motor vehicle report.
• DS3 Water License is preferred, not required.

Competencies

Manages Complexity

Ensures Accountability

Directs Work

Develops Talent

Builds Effective Teams

Balances Stakeholders