Water Supervisor

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Water Systems Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the operation and distribution of water throughout the District’s irrigation system.

This position manages daily water delivery operations, supervises Zanjeros and Watermaster staff, and ensures accurate water accounting, regulatory compliance, and reliable system performance. The role serves as the operational lead for water movement and plays a key leadership role in coordinating activities across operations, maintenance, and support systems.

Key Responsibilities

Water Distribution & Operations

• Oversee daily irrigation water delivery operations across the District
• Coordinate surface water and groundwater usage based on system demand
• Monitor flows, levels, and system performance and make real-time adjustments
• Approve and manage water delivery schedules

Work Planning & Coordination

• Ensure scheduling aligns with system capacity and operational priorities
• Responsible for the coordinated delivery execution with Zanjeros
• Adjust operations as conditions change

System Monitoring & Performance

• Monitor canals, pipelines, wells, and control structures for proper operation
• Identify operational issues affecting flow, pressure, or delivery efficiency
• Coordinate with Maintenance Supervisor for infrastructure repairs
• Support troubleshooting of SCADA, communication systems, and operational technology

Water Accounting & Reporting

• Ensure accurate measurement and tracking of water deliveries
• Review and verify daily logs from Zanjeros and Watermaster staff
• Reconcile discrepancies and maintain accurate records
• Prepare and oversee required reporting, including ADWR submissions

Well Operations

• Schedule and manage well operations based on system demand
• Monitor pumping rates and efficiency
• Coordinate maintenance and repairs with the Maintenance Supervisor

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Supervise Zanjeros and Watermaster staff
• Assign work, monitor performance, and ensure accountability
• Provide training and support for the water department staff
• Promote teamwork, professionalism, and adherence to District policies

Customer Service

• Respond to customer concerns and service requests
• Resolve water delivery issues in a timely and professional manner
• Maintain effective communication with water users and stakeholders

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce all safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Ensure safe operation of water systems and field activities
• Promote proper lifting techniques and ergonomic practices
• Maintain compliance with all applicable water regulations

Operational Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and water conservation
• Support implementation of improved processes, tools, and technologies

Operational Expectations (SOP Awareness)

The Water Systems Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the following operational processes are consistently executed:

• Water orders are reviewed, scheduled, and delivered efficiently
• System flows are monitored and adjusted in real time
• Water delivery records are accurate and reconciled regularly
• Well operations are aligned with system demand and efficiency goals
• Regulatory reporting is accurate and submitted on time

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in irrigation systems, water distribution, or related field
• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience preferred
• Experience with canal systems, pipelines, wells, and water control structures strongly preferred
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of water distribution systems and irrigation operations
• Proficient understanding of water measurement, flow control, and delivery scheduling
• Strong computer skill – spreadsheets, graphs, formulas.
• Knowledge of groundwater and well operations
• Ability to monitor and adjust system performance in real time
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in field environments
• Ability to interpret operational data and maintain accurate records
• Effective leadership, communication, and organizational skills

Licenses & Certifications

• Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license (or ability to obtain) and maintain a driving record that meets District standards

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including walking long distances, climbing, bending, and lifting
• Ability to safely perform work using proper body mechanics and ergonomic practices
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and respond to operational needs or emergencies
• This is a safety-sensitive position. Candidates must successfully pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and may be subject to random testing in accordance with District policy

Working Conditions

This position operates partially in outdoor field environments and may involve exposure to weather conditions, water systems, uneven terrain, and active operational sites. The role requires physical activity and adherence to safety protocols.

Maricopa Water District (MWD) is a political subdivision of the State of Arizona providing water and power services across a 60-square-mile service area in the West Valley. Since 1925, MWD has supported agricultural and urban customers through the management of extensive water delivery infrastructure and water resources. In addition to its utility operations, MWD owns and operates Pleasant Harbor RV Resort and Marina at Lake Pleasant, one of Arizona's premier outdoor recreation destinations. MWD offers employees the opportunity to contribute to essential public services while supporting the sustainable management of Arizona's water resources

Company Description

Maricopa Water District (MWD) is a political subdivision of the State of Arizona providing water and power services across a 60-square-mile service area in the West Valley. Since 1925, MWD has supported agricultural and urban customers through the management of extensive water delivery infrastructure and water resources. In addition to its utility operations, MWD owns and operates Pleasant Harbor RV Resort and Marina at Lake Pleasant, one of Arizona's premier outdoor recreation destinations. MWD offers employees the opportunity to contribute to essential public services while supporting the sustainable management of Arizona's water resources