Interim Water Quality Program Manager

California Water Service Group•Los Altos, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

California Water Service Group, the third-largest publicly traded water utility, is seeking an Interim Water Quality Program Manager. The company is dedicated to improving the quality of life for its customers, communities, and employees, guided by core values including integrity, service, value, health and safety, respect and collaboration, and corporate citizenship. Recognized as a Top Workplace®, a Great Place to Work®, and a J.D. Power leader in customer satisfaction, Cal Water offers a purpose-driven career. The Interim Water Quality Program Manager will be responsible for overseeing and leading the implementation of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) requirement for lead testing in schools and childcare facilities across all water systems in California, New Mexico, and Hawaii. This critical position ensures compliance with a new federal mandate to protect children and staff from lead exposure in drinking water. The role reports directly to the Supervisor of Water Quality and involves close collaboration with Districts, the Communication team, the Division of Drinking Water, and external consultants. While the federal requirement for testing is over a 5-year period with a 2032 completion date, the company proposes to complete the work in 3 years. This interim role is essential for meeting new lead safety standards in California schools and childcare facilities. The position can be located in Los Altos, Salinas, or Commerce, CA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
Valid California Driver License.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with internal customers and various departments, outside vendors, and consultants.
Knowledge of applicable drinking water laws and regulations relating to lead testing in schools and the Lead and Copper Rule requirements.
Knowledge of applicable drinking water laws and regulations to include SDWA, and Title 22.
Knowledge of internal Policy and Procedures related to drinking water, safety, and operations support.
Ability to prepare, manage, and analyze data.
Strong knowledge of and experience in project management.
Good interpersonal skills.
Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills.

Nice To Haves

California Division of Drinking Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certification preferred.
California Division of Drinking Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead the 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 ensuring plans meet LCRI guidelines.
Work with CWS internal lab and contract labs to order sample kits in accordance with sampling plan developed for facilities.
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.
Work with Corporate Communication department to conduct outreach and provide educational materials to facilities on best practices for lead testing and remediation.
Oversee the collection of water samples from facilities and ensure that proper procedures are followed according to the LCRI guidelines.
Manage data analysis and ensure timely and accurate reporting of testing to the California State Water Resources Control Board, New Mexico Environmental Department, Hawaii’s Department of Health, and other relevant bodies.
Tracking progress of testing and remediation efforts and providing regular updates to leadership.
Conduct regular reviews of program operations to ensure compliance with LCRI mandates.
Performs other similar duties as assigned.