Water Systems Operations Manager - Stanford University

Another Source's client, Stanford University, is recruiting a Water Systems Operations Manager to join their team on-site in Palo Alto, CA.

Here's a little about Stanford University Water Resources and Civil Infrastructure (WRCI) Group and the position they are recruiting for:

The Water Resources and Civil Infrastructure (WRCI) Group, part of the Sustainability & Energy Management division within Stanford University's Land, Buildings, and Real Estate Department, consists of three specialized teams: Engineering, Water Planning & Stewardship, and the Water Shop. Together, these teams oversee the engineering, operation, and maintenance of Stanford's extensive civil infrastructure, including water distribution systems, storm drainage systems, sanitary sewer systems, roads, bridges, and dams, all managed with a strong focus on sustainability. Stanford's water systems encompass domestic (potable) water, lake water for irrigation, and alternative water supplies, supported by critical infrastructure such as wells, reservoirs, pump stations, creek diversion facilities, and an extensive pipe network. The scale and complexity of Stanford's water and civil infrastructure rival those of a medium-sized city or special district.

Learn more about Stanford University Water Resources and Civil Infrastructure (WRCI) Group here: https://suwater.stanford.edu/about

The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $151,000 - $171,000 dependent on experience.

Job Description:

The Water Systems Operations Manager is a first-line supervisory position responsible for overseeing the water systems operation on Stanford University's campus. This role involves planning and directing the activities of the water operations team, which includes nine full-time bargaining unit technicians, as well as contracted crew personnel and contractors. The supervisor ensures the efficient operation and maintenance of the university's sanitary sewer, storm drain, and water distribution systems, while adhering to regulatory compliance and supporting sustainability initiatives.

What you will be doing:

Team Management:

Lead, motivate, and mentor nine team members, in close collaboration with the lead technician, to ensure effective operational performance.

• Responsible for managing the recruiting process in alignment with the university policies and procedures.

• Oversee employee scheduling, work assignments, and daily communications for technicians and technical staff.

• Review and approve timecards, manage staff schedules, and process time-off requests.

• Support personnel development by providing regular feedback and guidance.

• Evaluate employee performance and conduct annual performance reviews.

• Oversee contracted crew personnel and contractors.

System Operations:

• Operate and maintain sanitary sewer, storm drain, water supply & distribution systems, and related facilities; the water systems include domestic/fire, recycled and non-potable ("Lake") water systems.

• Ensure compliance with Stanford's water rights and California State Water Resources Control Board regulations.

• Execute operation & maintenance activities as directed by Energy Operations on the thermal energy water systems: low temperature hot water and chilled water.

• Operate and maintain all major system components such as reservoirs, pump stations, dams, diversion facilities, fish ladders, metering stations, pressure regulators, and SCADA systems.

Preventive Maintenance and Inspections:

• Program and conduct all preventive maintenance, exercising, sampling, and flushing operations of all water systems.

• Routinely inspect all system components, including manholes, cleanouts, inlets, lift stations, and stormwater treatment components.

• Maintain an appropriate inventory of replacement equipment and parts.

Emergency Response:

• Respond to emergencies and system problems, prioritizing actions to mitigate issues.

• Coordinate shutdowns for new connections and monitor system controls.

• Oversee the operation of sewer cleaning equipment for training purposes.

Planning and Coordination:

• Facilitate, schedule, and oversee all new connections to the water systems.

• Troubleshoot and manage SCADA problems and upgrades.

• Update design standards and system maps.

• Assist with construction inspection activities and review plans for new connections and system expansions.

Budget and Resource Management:

• Collaborate with the director to prepare and manage the annual budget for the water operations team and system.

• Approve purchases and manage the inventory of equipment and supplies.

Customer Service:

• Provide operational response to customer inquiries and complaints regarding water quality, pressure, taste, odor, leaks, and blockages.

• Coordinate with and notify customers in advance of needed water operational service interruptions.

• May perform other duties as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field preferred; or an equivalent combination of relevant technical education, training, and experience.

• Minimum of 10 years' experience in water systems operations, including at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role overseeing and leading technicians.

• Prior experience working within the guidelines of a Collective Bargaining Agreement.

• Proven track record of effectively leading water operations crews and managing service contracts.

• Demonstrated experience in the development and management of budgets and programs.

• Hands-on experience with underground piping systems construction required.

• California DODW Grade 3 Water Distribution Operator certification (D3) required.

• California DODW Grade 3 Water Treatment Operator certification (T3) highly desirable.

• AWWA Cross Connection Control certification required.

• AWWA Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification required, with demonstrated knowledge of assembly testing and maintenance.

• Strong technical expertise across all system components outlined above.

• Familiarity with CAL/OSHA environmental and safety regulations, including the ability to conduct job site inspections to ensure compliance.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, VPN, and SCADA systems.

• Ability to interpret planning specifications, working drawings, and related technical reports.

Why Stanford is for You: https://careersearch.stanford.edu/benefits

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.

• $6,000+ in tuition and training assistance annually

• Up to 50% of Stanford's annual tuition cost applied to your child's undergraduate tuition

• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.

• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.

• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.

• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

• 18+PTO/Vacation days per year

• Up to 5% of your base pay contributed automatically to your 403(b) + a generous match

• 100% of your retirement account is fully vested immediately

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination:

Stanford is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Another Source works with their clients, on a retained project basis. We are committed to building inclusive candidate pools as we partner with hiring teams. Veterans, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. As you read through the job posting and review the list of qualifications (required and/or preferred), please do not self-select out if you feel you do not meet every qualification. No one is 100% qualified. We encourage you to apply and share your story with us.

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