Water Resources Manager

Salary : $143,896.48 - $174,906.94 Annually
Location : Santa Maria, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: FY 26-00134
Department: Utilities
Division: Utilities - Water Resources
Opening Date: 04/06/2026
Closing Date: Continuous


OPPORTUNITY
This recruitment will remain open until filled.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Water Resources Manager is a leadership position that reports directly to the Deputy Director of Utilities - Water Resources. The position will plan, organize, and direct the day-to-day operations and maintenance activities of the City of Santa Maria's water system, including water production and treatment, water distribution, and customer service. In addition, the position is responsible for ensuring a clean, safe, and reliable domestic water supply for the community, serving over 23,000 metered connections. To learn more about the City's water system,


WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO
The City of Santa Maria is a full-service city with a Council/Manager form of government with over 700 employees and serves approximately 110,000 residents. The City is located on California's central coast and covers over 23 square miles, which balances urban and agricultural lands.


The Utilities Department is responsible for providing water, wastewater treatment, sewer collection, refuse collection, and disposal services to Santa Maria. The Mission Statement of the Utilities Department is to provide efficient utility services through the use of progressive innovation, excellent customer service, and the wise use of public resources for the long-term benefit of the community.

SUMMARY/IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS
Under general direction of assigned supervisor, plans, organizes, and directs the operation and maintenance of the City's Water or Wastewater systems, based on area of assignment. The water system includes operations and maintenance of the distribution system, groundwater production wells, and the blending-disinfection facility. The wastewater system includes operations and maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant and the sanitary sewer and storm sewer systems. This position supervises other department professional and technical staff and consultants.

The Water Resources Manager is a Middle Manager role that provides the essential tools, support, and guidance to staff to ensure high-quality utility service delivery. Their role ensures that the residents and businesses in Santa Maria receive dependable and safe resources.

IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT
The ideal candidate for this leadership position is an experienced water professional who possesses a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields. They have advanced knowledge and experience related to the safe operation of drinking water systems and State regulations. They have experience managing staff, leading large teams, and effectively communicating with internal and external stakeholders.


The ideal candidate will also have experience in identifying and implementing solutions related to water supply, reliability, and quality; infrastructure, technology, and regulatory compliance; and operations and maintenance.

REQUIRED ONLINE SUBMITTALS

1. Up-to-date application
2. A cover letter that explains how your education and experience align with the Ideal Candidate Statement.
3. A copy of relevant certifications (Refer to the Minimum Qualifications section below)

Full Job Description:

DUTIES
These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization.


This position:

• Based on area of assignment, plans, organizes, and directs the operations and maintenance activities of water in the Water Resources Division of the Utilities Department, in conformance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Recommends and implements operational plans and procedures for improving division effectiveness and efficiency.
• Develops and implements long-range capital programs.
• Solicits, coordinates, and reviews work of consulting firms engaged in operational studies and capital project design.
• Assists in development of specifications for fleet purchases and equipment to ensure operational efficiency.
• Develops and administers budgets.
• Prepares and/or reviews technical reports, designs, and calculations to ensure compliance with engineering and regulatory standards, and responds to regulatory and funding agencies.
• Hires, trains, supervises, and evaluates subordinate staff.
• Conducts presentations before City Council, boards, commissions, and community groups as directed by the department director.
• Receives customer complaints and takes appropriate action.
• Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the department director.
• Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation.
• Performs other related projects and duties as assigned.
• Demonstrates regular, reliable and punctual attendance.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Middle Manager:

Incumbents should have a solid foundation of Individual Contributor and Front-line Supervisor core competencies identified by the organization, as well as the following core competencies identified as essential for Middle Manager (click the to see the full definition):

• Talent Development - Effective performers keep a continual eye on the talent pool to monitor skills and needs of team members. They expand staff skills through training, coaching, and development. They evaluate and articulate present performance and future potential.
• Organizing & Planning - Effective performers have strong organizing and planning skills that allow them to be highly productive and efficient, manage time wisely, and effectively prioritize multiple competing tasks.
• Organization Knowledge - Effective performers understand the workings of a municipal organization, formal and informal policies and structures, and know "how the place works."
• Relationship Building - Effective performers understand that a primary factor in success is establishing and maintaining productive relationships. They interact with people and are good at it. They devote appropriate time and energy to establishing and maintaining networks.
• Results Orientation - Effective performers maintain appropriate focus on outcomes and accomplishments, are motivated by achievement, and persist until the goal is reached.
• Industry Knowledge - Effective performers understand the general workings of local government within which the organization functions, and maintain a current knowledge base.
• Written Communication - Effective performers write clearly and concisely, composing informative and convincing documents. They use written language to convey substance and intent with simplicity, accuracy and clarity.
• Financial Acumen - Effective performers understand the financial framework of the organization. They are cost conscious and fiscally responsible, and use financial data to make informed business decisions.
• Change Agility - Effective performers are adaptable, are effective in the face of ambiguity, and support an orientation for change.
• Technology Savvy - Effective performers use technology to be successful in their organizational role. They value technology and leverage existing and new technology to achieve efficiency.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ideally, five (5) years of progressively responsible operations experience, including two (2) years of leadership experience in water utility management, water supply systems and facilities, water operations and maintenance activities, hydrology and water resources management, water infrastructure, and regulatory compliance; or
• Education equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in environmental studies, biology, business administration, public administration, engineering, or a related field; and/or equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
• Current technical/professional knowledge of complex principles, methods, standards and techniques associated with the scope of work of a recognized profession, such as:
  • Modern physical, chemical, and bacteriological processes involved in water treatment and distribution.
  • Local, State, and Federal guidelines regulating the operation and maintenance of water distribution and production facilities.
  • Reporting requirements to local, State, and Federal regulatory agencies.
  • Utilities design and construction practices.
  • Record keeping requirements.
  • Emergency response and crisis management.
  • Budgeting; effective management, supervision, evaluation, and training.
  • Safety precautions and procedures.
  • Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent).
  • Use computers and other office equipment effectively.
• Desired licenses and/or certifications associated with the assignment, such as:
  • Certificate of registration as a licensed Civil or Mechanical Engineer issued by the California State Board of Registration of Civil and Professional Engineers.
  • State of California Water Treatment or Distribution Operator Certificate.

SELECTION PROCESS

• Possession of a valid and appropriate California Driver License. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and meet City liability requirements to drive for City business.
• Requires completion of a background investigation to the satisfaction of the City.
• The incumbent must meet the physical requirements of the job class and have mobility, balance, coordination, vision, hearing and dexterity levels appropriate to the duties to be performed.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

• May require completion of a pre-employment physical to the satisfaction of the City.
• Reasonable accommodation(s) for an individual with a qualified disability will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The complete online application packet consists of the application, cover letter, and relevant certifications. Those who meet the minimum qualifications of this recruitment will be certified to the Eligibility List. The Hiring Department will select and interview individuals from the Eligibility List. Please note that only those who best meet the needs of the Hiring Department will be invited to an interview.
If you are experiencing any technical (computer-related) difficulties or need help with attaching documents to your application, call the NEOGOV helpline for assistance at View phone number on click.appcast.io.
The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at


Retirement
The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.
Health Insurance
Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO's) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.


The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment.

Dental Insurance
Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per
bargaining unit.

Vision Insurance

Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees' taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Employee Assistance Program
The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.
Wellness Program
Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The City's Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work.


Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members.Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.
Mentorship Program
This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants' leadership skills and promote professional growth.

Succession Planning
The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.
Deferred Compensation
Employees may participate in the City's 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.
The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).
Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP)
Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.
Holidays
The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employee's discretion.
Vacation
The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.
Sick Leave
Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.
Management Leave
Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.
Educational Incentive Program
In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.
Tuition Reimbursement
Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.
Auto Allowance
Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.
Telephone/PDA Stipend
Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.
Bilingual Pay
Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
01


Select the number of years of your full time-experience in water resources and/or utility operations.

• N/A
• Less than 1 year
• 1-2 years
• 3-4 years
• 5-7 years
• 8 or more years

02


Select the number of years served in a supervisory or management role within public agency utilities.

• N/A
• Less than 1 year
• 1-2 years
• 3-4 years
• 5-7 years
• 8 or more years

03


Describe your experience developing and implementing water resource operational plans and procedures.
04


Summarize your direct experience and previously served roles in the following areas: a) potable water; b) regulatory compliance.
05


Explain your experience with capital programs, including your direct involvement with planning, budgeting, and construction.
06


Describe your budgetary experience with preparation, stakeholder buy-in, and management. Include budget amounts.
07


List all valid certifications you currently hold that are relevant to this recruitment (Refer to the Minimum Qualifications section). List the issuing agency, type/grade, and expiration.
Required Question