Interim Water Quality Program Manager

Interim Water Quality Program Manager

California Water Service Group invites you to build a meaningful career with the third‑largest publicly traded water utility. Guided by our mission to be the leading provider of water and wastewater services, we are dedicated to improving the quality of life for the customers, communities, and employees we serve.

The Interim Water Quality Program Manager will oversee and lead implementation of Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) required for lead testing in schools and childcare facilities across all water systems in California, New Mexico, and Hawaii. This position reports to the Supervisor of Water Quality and works closely with the Districts, Communication team, and the Division of Drinking Water.

This role aims to ensure compliance with new federal mandates protecting children and staff from lead exposure. The position is essential for meeting California schools and childcare facilities' new lead safety standards. This role can be located in Los Altos, Salinas, or Commerce, CA.

• Knowledge of applicable drinking water laws and regulations related to lead testing in schools and Lead and Copper Rule requirements.
• Lead overall coordination of the lead testing program across all identified schools and childcare facilities in California, New Mexico, and Hawaii.
• Develop a comprehensive project plan outlining key milestones, timelines, and resources required for the successful execution of the LCRI initiative.
• Work with the district to develop sampling plans and ensure plans meet LCRI guidelines.
• Coordinate with internal lab and contract labs to order sample kits in accordance with the sampling plan.
• Notify schools and childcare facilities of any exceedances, all sample results, and public health materials per LCRI.
• Ensure that all activities comply with California, New Mexico, and Hawaii's water quality regulations and the specific requirements of the LCRI program related to lead testing in schools and day‑care facilities.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between districts, schools, childcare facilities, and regulatory agencies.
• Collaborate with Corporate Communication to conduct outreach and provide educational materials on best practices for lead testing and remediation.
• Oversee collection of water samples and ensure procedures followed per LCRI guidelines.
• Manage data analysis and ensure timely, accurate reporting to the California State Water Resources Control Board, New Mexico Environmental Department, Hawaii's Department of Health, and other relevant bodies.
• Track progress of testing and remediation, providing regular updates to leadership.
• Conduct periodic reviews to ensure compliance with LCRI mandates.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree with major coursework in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or related field.
• California Division of Drinking Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certification (preferred).
• California Division of Drinking Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certification (preferred).
• Valid California Driver License.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with internal customers and various departments, vendors, and consultants.
• Knowledge of applicable drinking water laws and regulations, including SDWA and Title 22.
• Knowledge of internal policies and procedures related to drinking water, safety, and operations support.
• Ability to prepare, manage, and analyze data.
• Strong project management knowledge and experience.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem‑solving, troubleshooting, and decision‑making skills.

Commerce, CA & Salinas, CA: $74,600 – $138,400 (DOE)

Los Altos, CA: $82,900 – $153,800 (DOE)

Deadline to submit resume:
Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

The Equal Opportunity Policy of the Company is based on the philosophy that all people should be treated fairly and with dignity. California Water Service, Hawaii Water Service, New Mexico Water Service, and Washington Water Service do not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected class. The Company makes all employment decisions in a non‑discriminatory manner.

EOE, VET, DISABILITIES.