Office of Rural Water Program Manager I
About The Position
Reliable water systems are essential, and the Office of Rural Water Program Manager leads the work that helps ensure they stay strong. As part of the Bureau of Water, the Office of Rural Water (ORW) plays a critical role in protecting and strengthening water systems across the state - especially in the communities that need it most. As the ORW Program Manager, you will guide a statewide program that helps small rural water and wastewater systems address long-standing infrastructure and compliance challenges. In this role, you will lead staff and oversee operations that provide technical expertise and hands-on support to rural utilities. Your work directly contributes to safer drinking water, more resilient wastewater systems, healthier communities, and long-term environmental stability across South Carolina.
Requirements
- A master’s degree in the natural or physical sciences, public health or related technical field and five (5) years of environmental experience; OR A bachelor’s degree in the natural or physical sciences, public health or related technical field and six (6) years of environmental experience.
- Degrees in a related technical field include earth or environmental sciences, engineering, chemistry, biology, soil science, or similar disciplines.
- Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
- Valid driver’s license and the ability to operate a motor vehicle.
- Willing and able to perform routine in-state travel, occasional out-of-state travel, and work after normal work hours.
- Able to operate with limited direct daily supervision.
- Strong prioritization and organizational skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Able to make presentations in a group setting.
- Able to supervise a team of staff and carry out management level responsibilities in an environmental program.
- Must be able to plan, manage and supervise statewide activities.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in the drinking water and wastewater field.
Responsibilities
- Oversee daily operations and management of the Office of Rural Water.
- Plan, assign and follow projects and activities related to the office and staff members.
- Serve as the point of contact for the ORW for all inquiries for assistance and information.
- Provide expert level technical, managerial and/or guidance to find financial assistance to rural water and wastewater systems.
- Represent the ORW by participating in presentations, trainings and conferences for general and regulated audiences.
- Perform site visits and work collaboratively with rural water and wastewater systems and partners to facilitate solutions to complex problems.
- Assist with ensuring compliance to state and federal regulations.
- Maintain effective, professional engagement with elected officials, including mayors, council members, administrators, and state legislators.
- Support Bureau leadership by contributing to strategic objectives, preparing periodic progress reports, and managing special projects and grant activities as assigned.
- Perform additional duties as needed, including completing Employee Performance Management System (EPMS) requirements and attending meetings and trainings.
Benefits
- Paid holidays
- 30 total days of leave per year
- Insurance options for you and your family
- Retirement benefit choices
- Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children.
- 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
- 15 days sick leave per year
- Paid parental leave
- S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available
- State Retirement Plan (SCRS)
- State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
