Water Systems Manager

Water Systems Manager - Department of Public Works

The City of West Allis is seeking an energetic and highly professional Water Systems Manager who demonstrates direct, effective communication skills and the ability to build and nurture strong working relationships. We seek a collaborative leader who can confidently guide operations while partnering across departments and engaging positively with the community.

The Water Systems Manager is responsible for overseeing the installation, operation, and maintenance of the City's water distribution system to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of potable water. This role is crucial for protecting public health, optimizing system performance, and supporting long-term infrastructure planning.

Examples of duties include:

• Supervising the operation, maintenance, construction, and repair of the water distribution system, including water mains, valves, hydrants, services, two water towers, the reservoir, and the pump station.
• Planning, scheduling, coordinating, and supervising all field operations, maintenance, laboratory analysis, material acquisition, contractors, and related activities to ensure efficient use of personnel and resources.
• Overseeing the underground utility locating service in response to Digger's Hotline requests.
• Maintaining accurate facility, construction, operational, and maintenance records.
• Maintaining strong working knowledge of SCADA, GIS, and the City's asset management and service request software.
• Completing all required operating and maintenance reports, including federal, state, and local regulatory documentation.
• Attending pre-construction meetings and coordinating with contractors on projects impacting City water infrastructure.
• Assisting in developing and executing the utility's operational and capital improvement program budgets.
• Monitoring and interpreting local, state, and federal codes, rules, and regulations related to water distribution.
• Developing written standard operating procedures and work methods for water crews.
• Coordinating and supervising the installation of water service taps.
• Overseeing the water utility billing function related to metering and administration of the City's billing services.
• Responding to emergency calls during off-hours.
• Assisting in coordinating the City's cross-connection program.
• Collaborating with the Engineering Department on construction projects and the lead service line replacement program.
• Notifying water customers regarding interruptions in service.
• Preparing purchase requisitions and material reports.
• Reviewing and approving invoices for payment in a timely manner.
• Developing work schedules for Water Distribution employees.
• Establishing standard training criteria for new and existing employees.
• Evaluating the performance of employees under direct supervision.

Qualifications include:

• Possess a valid Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Water Distribution Operator License AND an associate degree in Civil Engineering, Public Administration, or a related field and at least 4 years of recent paid experience in public water distribution systems; OR a high school diploma or equivalent and at least 8 years of recent paid experience in public water distribution systems.
• Preferred qualifications include familiarity with Public Service Commission requirements, experience with water utility billing, and previous supervisory experience.

Why work for us:

• Health & Wellness: City covers 88% of the medical premium (HRA plan). FREE dental insurance. FREE life insurance. FREE long-term disability coverage.
• Retirement: Participate in Wisconsin's Retirement Fund with 7% city contribution.
• Generous Time Off: Up to 25 days annually to start. Holiday pay (up to 9 days).
• Professional Growth: Paid training – we invest in our employees! Tuition reimbursement. Educational bonuses for certifications/training completed on city time. Opportunities for advancement.
• Financial Perks: Student loan repayment program. Federal loan forgiveness. Annual salary increases.
• Culture & Extras: Paid employee recognition programs. Employee wellness program. Employee assistance program. Pet insurance. Employee events and more!