Director, Water Quality & Environmental Compliance

$141,390 - $225,350. The base salary range represents a good-faith estimate; actual compensation will be determined based on market, geography, skills, education, and experience. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and continued salary growth. Benefits include a 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase plan, medical/prescription/dental/vision coverage, disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs, and professional learning opportunities.

About the Role

This position is ultimately accountable for the comprehensive direction and administration of laboratories, water quality, environmental stewardship, and environmental rules and regulations—including those under the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act. Decisions and recommendations made in this role have far-reaching impact on environmental activities, and the position involves extensive contact with key officials and company personnel. The role executes departmental business plans and contributes to functional strategies while providing feedback to executive management on policies and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develops and oversees the State Water Quality and Environmental monitoring program to ensure compliance with regulatory and corporate standards, including adherence to measurement and reporting schedules.
• Creates Environmental Management Plans and reviews developing water quality and environmental regulations, providing input to local, state, and federal regulatory processes.
• Tracks permits related to business operations and directs staff on matters impacting water quality, public health, or environmental compliance.
• Establishes, reviews, and approves water quality reports, communications, and operational procedures, including Consumer Confidence Reports.
• Interfaces with Corporate Operations Excellence on environmental reporting and coordination.
• Provides input to local, state, and system management on water quality, public health, and environmental matters.
• Directs laboratories and other water quality and environmental monitoring programs, offering technical assistance on related issues.
• Provides technical advice for business development opportunities, investigates new acquisitions, and integrates them into operations.
• Serves as an expert witness in legal and ratemaking proceedings.
• Identifies opportunities to enhance the company’s brand through innovative and sustainable environmental solutions.
• Develops reference projects for social responsibility, stewardship, and natural resource programs.
• Oversees career development of staff and manages the O&M budget to stay within financial targets.
• Directs programs addressing security of sources, facilities, and customers against water quality and environmental threats.
• Assists in developing cross-connection and backflow prevention programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Environmental Science, or equivalent (required). Master’s degree preferred.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of experience in environmental management of water resources, treatment, or related technology/process development.
• Experience managing people, budgets, plans, and strategies; advanced degrees may substitute for a portion of experience.
• Previous experience managing a team (required).

Skills

• Knowledge of water/wastewater operations, water quality monitoring, and quality assurance programs.
• Familiarity with government regulations related to water quality and employee/community safety.
• Understanding of current and emerging environmental issues and regulations impacting water resources and facility operations.
• Knowledge of industry trade organizations and participation in activities aimed at improving water quality.
• Advanced leadership skills to motivate and direct staff.

Schedule

This is an onsite position requiring 5 days per week in the office. The role may be located at any CA American Water office except San Diego.

Travel

Travel may be 25% or more to cover a large geographical area of responsibility.