Water Resources Director

City of DeKalb; DeKalb (IL); On-site; USD 122,000 - 178,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government entity in Illinois is seeking an experienced Water Resources Director to lead the water utility operations. This position requires a strong background in public works and water resource management, along with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience, including supervision of water systems and ensuring safe water supply. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are offered.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Life insurance

Flexible spending accounts

Deferred compensation

Participation in IMRF

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in public works or water resource management.
• Extensive background in planning large-scale water systems.
• Valid Class 'B' Public Water Supply Operator License from Illinois EPA required.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and direct work of the City’s water utility.
• Oversee water production, treatment, and distribution.
• Lead and supervise departmental staff.

Skills

Public works experience

Water resource management

Engineering knowledge

Construction oversight

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Job description

The City of DeKalb, Illinois is seeking a Water Resources Director to join our team! The Water Resources Director coordinates and directs the work of the City’s water utility. This position entails the administration and operations of the Water Department including water production, treatment, storage, metering, and distribution while promoting sustainable water management practices and delivering a safe and high-quality water supply to the community.

The Water Resources Director is a department head position and key member of the Executive Team, who reports to the City Manager. This position will lead and supervise departmental staff, provide oversight to on-site contractors and will collaborate with City Hall staff, the Public Works Department, elected officials, committee members, patterning agencies, contractors, and the community at large.

The Water Resources Director position is classified as an emergency response position. The position will require residency within the boundary map within fifteen (15) months from the date of hire.

For consideration, we require the following:

• A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in public works, water resource management, engineering, construction or related field. Experience must include extensive background in water resource management and planning for large-scale water systems, including direct involvement with potable water treatment and distribution.
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in natural/physical science, natural resource management, engineering, construction, public administration or a closely related field.
• Possess a minimum of a valid Class “B” Public Water Supply Operator License from the Illinois EPA, or ability to obtain such certification within 24 months of hire.
• Ability to obtain Certification by the State of Illinois Department of Public Health as a Laboratory Analyst within one year of hire.

The salary range for the position is $122,513--$177,646. Placement within the range will be commensurate with knowledge, skills and experience. The City of DeKalb provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision and prescription benefits, life insurance coverage, HSA & flexible spending accounts, deferred compensation and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).

Initial review of applications will begin Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The position will remain open until filled.

City of DeKalb is an Equal Opportunity Employer