Tacoma Water Construction Operations Manager

City of Tacoma•Tacoma, WA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Tacoma Water is seeking a collaborative and experienced leader to manage two Construction Operations workgroups within the Maintenance & Construction section. This position plays a key role in supporting Tacoma Water’s mission by ensuring the proper installation of new services and distribution assets, as well as safe and effective connections to the water system. Time will be spent working from both the Tacoma Public Utilities building and the McMillin Service Center in Puyallup. The Construction Operations Manager plans, organizes, coordinates, and directs water system construction operations while implementing programs, policies, procedures, and training that support safe, efficient, and effective operations. This position oversees teams responsible for heavy construction activities, one- and two-person hand crew operations, system troubleshooting, utility locating, and customer support functions. The ideal candidate will bring proven operational leadership, experience managing represented workgroups, a commitment to safety, and the ability to collaborate across divisions and partner agencies.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, environmental science or directly related field
5 years of professional-level experience in the water industry, public works, or directly related utility industry, including 1 year prior at a supervisory level
Relevant education and experience may substitute for one another on a year-for-year basis
Washington State Driver's License required

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee daily operations for two Distribution Construction workgroups, including 2 direct reports and approximately 25 personnel.
Ensure construction and maintenance activities comply with applicable regulations, industry standards, safety requirements, and Tacoma Water asset management practices.
Plan and coordinate staffing, schedules, equipment, materials, and resources to support operational and capital work.
Foster a meaningful culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Support employee recruitment, onboarding, coaching, performance management, and workforce development initiatives.
Collaborate with internal teams, outside agencies, contractors, and local jurisdictions to support construction and operational priorities.
Manage workgroup budgets, expenditures, forecasting, and reporting activities.
Support long-term workforce sustainability, succession planning, and strategic initiatives.
Participate in cross-functional teams, process improvement efforts, and apprenticeship program support.