Director of Engineering (Water Resources

Director of Engineering (Water Resources)

The Director, Engineering is responsible for strategic leadership and overall management of the engineering function within the state of Tennessee. This role is accountable for three primary areas:
Infrastructure Assessment & Planning — evaluate adequacy of water and wastewater infrastructure with respect to capacity, reliability, water quality/compliance, and operational efficiency; direct long‑term engineering planning to identify system risks and develop strategic recommendations for mitigation.
Capital Program Development & Execution — lead the creation and implementation of a comprehensive capital investment program designed to manage system risk, enhance asset resilience, and improve overall efficiency of critical infrastructure.
Operational Engineering Support — provide technical expertise and engineering resources to operations and other functional teams to support system growth, operational excellence, and the organization’s core mission of delivering safe, reliable, and affordable services to customers.

• Direct engineering planning activities to assess system risks and opportunities, develop recommendations for capital improvements, including scope, budget, and project prioritization, to strengthen reliability, resiliency, and performance of water and wastewater systems.
• Develop a prudently prioritized capital improvement plan (CIP) to address key risks and optimize efficient, reliable service; ensure effective delivery, governance, and oversight of the state operating company’s capital program.
• Direct engineering design and construction activities in alignment with the CIP, ensuring adherence to sound engineering principles, technical standards, and effective project management practices.
• Manage, coach, and develop the engineering organization; ensure strong collaboration and technical support for operations, business development, and other functional teams.
• Prepare testimony and represent the company in rate cases, regulatory hearings and negotiations, and at community, industry, and public forums.

• Strong knowledge of engineering related to planning, design and operations concepts for water and wastewater resource management facilities, engineering and utility economics, contract administration, and construction technology.
• Knowledge of applicable state and federal regulations, company operations and procedures.
• Knowledge of employee relations, safety and environmental regulations, federal and state water quality and design regulations and technical standards.
• Designated knowledge of engineering design theory and practice, project management, water resources, water/wastewater facilities and utility operations.
• Solid understanding of regulatory developments, new technology and current trends in water quality and water treatment.
• Knowledge of capital and O&M budgeting, cost estimating, cost recovery, project scoping, prioritization methodologies, and portfolio management.
• Strong leadership ability and strategic planning skills.
• Detail oriented for thorough analysis and evaluations, rendering and implementing timely decisions and recommendations.
• Project and program management, quantitative, analytical, technical problem‑solving skills.
• Effective people management, including planning, organizing, recruiting, supervising, and leading staff and teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication and keen listening ability.
• Interpersonal skills: persuasion, negotiation, listening, cooperation, tact, diplomacy, problem solving, internal consulting.
• Leadership presence to maintain cooperative working relationships with senior management and key stakeholders.
• Financial analysis including budget management, business modeling, and accounting knowledge.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering. Advanced management or technical degree preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in utility engineering and/or utility operations.
• 5+ years of experience managing professional engineering staff.

• Valid driver’s license.
• Professional Engineering (PE) license required in the applicable operating state.

• Standard indoor office environment.

• Up to 20%, as required.

• Prioritizes and role models safety.
• Self‑awareness.
• Develops talent plans, aligns, and directs.
• Drives engagement.
• Decision quality.

American Water is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based on age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, or because they are an individual with a disability, protected veteran or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.

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