Municipal Water Treatment Project Manager/Chief Operator

Inframark•North Lauderdale, FL

About The Position

The Project Manager / Chief Water Operator leads the operations, maintenance, compliance, and performance of a municipal water utility system in Southern Florida. The role provides overall leadership and strategic direction for water treatment and distribution operations under contract management, serving as the primary operational leader and contact for client representatives and regulatory agencies. The position oversees regulatory compliance, facility inspections, corrective actions, standard operating procedures, safety programs, budgets, contractual performance, and continuous improvement. It also leads and develops operations and maintenance staff; maintains relationships with municipal leaders, regulators, community stakeholders, and customers; and presents operational updates, capital improvement plans, and budget recommendations. The role supports contract renewals, service expansions, and business growth.

Requirements

Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in water treatment operations, utility management, or water system administration.
Chief Operator experience or equivalent operational leadership experience.
Demonstrated success managing utility personnel, budgets, regulatory compliance, and customer relationships.
Active Florida Class A Water Operator License or ability to receive one through reciprocity.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to work in office, plant, and field environments.
Ability to occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds.
Approximately 5–10% travel.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, Water Resources, or a related field.
Deep knowledge of water treatment processes, distribution systems, regulatory compliance, and utility operations.
Experience managing municipal or contract utility operations.
Strong financial and budget management capabilities.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and utility management software.
Ability to analyze operational data, interpret laboratory results, and implement process improvements.
Excellent presentation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

Direct water treatment plant operations, maintenance, asset management, and regulatory compliance.
Serve as the designated operational leader and primary point of contact for client representatives and regulatory agencies.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including FDEP, OSHA, DOT, and environmental requirements.
Develop, implement, and improve standard operating procedures, safety programs, and operational best practices.
Conduct facility inspections and oversee corrective actions.
Lead, coach, mentor, and develop operations and maintenance professionals.
Manage recruiting, hiring, onboarding, training, performance management, and succession planning.
Foster accountability, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Build and maintain relationships with municipal leaders, regulatory agencies, community stakeholders, and customers.
Present operational updates, capital improvement plans, and budget recommendations to client representatives and governing bodies.
Attend council and public meetings as needed.
Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets.
Monitor financial performance, including revenue, invoicing, accounts receivable, and expense controls.
Ensure contractual obligations, performance metrics, and service levels are achieved.
Support business growth opportunities, contract renewals, and service expansions.
Participate in emergency response activities as required.