Water & Wastewater Operations Manager; Program Specialist

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 highly visible and 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 the 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.

Some of the job duties include:

• 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 water drinking systems, coliform monitoring plans, reservoirs, water treatment systems, well heads, etc.
• Maintains all required credentials and certifications in water and wastewater services as described herein
  • Systems in Scope
    • Water Systems:
      All Class A TNC domestic water systems statewide, with and without treatment (e.g., chlorination, filtration).
    • Wastewater Systems
      • 4 Membrane Bioreactor (M ) systems
      • 1 Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) system
      • Multiple Large On‑Site Sewage Systems (LOSS)
      • Lagoon‑based systems
      • Numerous small septic systems
• 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.

Schedule:

Four days per week, generally Monday through Thursday. Core work hours are typically 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Incumbent may be expected to adjust the work schedule to meet business needs. A flexible work schedule will be considered at the incumbent’s request, subject to supervisory approval.

Work Setting:
This position works in various work environments, including office, vehicles, and in a park or field setting to include indoor and outdoor work environments. Work tasks vary which require attending to various weather conditions including inclement weather, at heights, within confined spaces, and below grades. Work is performed in all types of terrain and will require sitting, standing, bending, twisting and walking for long periods of time.

Remote work is possible part time.

Travel:
This position will require extensive travel between parks, throughout the State Park system. Travel will be required for statewide meetings, training, or other field work. Travel will be necessary in all types of weather conditions and climates. Overnight travel will occur regularly.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

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…