Water & Wastewater Operations Manager; Program Specialist

Overview

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission

Job Title: Water & Wastewater Operations Manager (PS5)

Location: Lacey, WA

Closes: Continuous. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting February 17, 2026. We strongly recommend applying as soon as possible.

Washington State Parks is seeking an experienced and motivated Statewide Operations Water and Wastewater Manager to lead and oversee the operation, compliance, and long-term management of the agency’s water and wastewater systems across the state. In this technical leadership role, you will serve as the agency’s subject matter expert (SME) for public water systems, wastewater systems, and cross-connection control programs. You will provide statewide technical direction, ensure regulatory compliance, support capital improvement planning, and help safeguard public health while supporting Washington State Parks’ mission to provide exceptional recreational and conservation experiences.

This role offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced technical expertise in support of public health, environmental stewardship, and outdoor recreation statewide. You’ll work across diverse landscapes and systems, collaborate with dedicated professionals, and play a critical role in protecting Washington’s parks and visitors who enjoy them.

Apply today and help ensure safe, reliable water and wastewater systems for Washington State Parks—now and for generations to come.

• Develop and implement agency-wide policies, standards, and best practices related to water and wastewater system operations, maintenance, and long-term management.
• Manage contracts for outsourced system operations by third-party providers.
• Perform routine inspections of M  plants, LOSS systems, lagoons, drain fields, and other wastewater systems and components.
• Perform routine inspections of drinking water systems, coliform monitoring plans, reservoirs, water treatment systems, well heads, etc.
• Maintain all required credentials and certifications in water and wastewater services.
• Independently operate a motor vehicle and travel to work sites to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with Department of Health (DOH), Department of Ecology (ECY), EPA, and local health jurisdiction requirements.
• Track and evaluate system performance using SCADA, monitoring data, and inspections.
• Develop and deliver training for staff on operations, maintenance, and compliance of water and wastewater systems.
• Provide technical reviews of engineering reports, designs, specifications, and construction documents for capital improvements.
• Participate in project scoping, prioritization, and planning for system upgrades and replacements.

Required:

• At least four (4) years of experience in water/wastewater utility operations, including at least one (1) year in a technical lead role.
• Valid Driver’s License, unrestricted other than corrective lenses.
• Must possess or be able to obtain Washington State certifications:
• Water Distribution Manager (WDM) II or higher (or ability to obtain within 1 year)
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group II or higher (or ability to obtain within 1 year)
• CCS Certification Cross Connections Specialist (or ability to obtain within 24 months)
• Backflow Certification (or ability to obtain within 24 months)

Desirable:

• Experience with membrane treatment technologies, including M  systems.
• Experience managing water and wastewater systems in rural or recreational settings.
• Strong working knowledge of Washington DOH, Ecology, and EPA regulations.
• Proficiency in SCADA systems, GIS, and asset management software.
• PE license in Civil or Environmental Engineering.
• Experience in wastewater collection and disposal.

• Technical Water & Wastewater Systems Expertise – demonstrates advanced knowledge of water and wastewater system operations, including Class A TNC water systems, M  and RBC treatment technologies, LOSS, lagoons, septic systems, and municipal connections.
• Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management – ensures full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations (DOH, Ecology, EPA, and local health…