Water Distribution Manager

Woodard & Curran • O’Fallon, MO

8d • $95,000 - $105,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Woodard & Curran is seeking an experienced Water Distribution Manager to lead their operations and maintenance team supporting Public Water Supply District #2 / East Central Missouri in St. Charles County, Missouri. This role involves overseeing critical public infrastructure, leading a team, and making a direct impact on the communities served. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who enjoys developing people, driving operational excellence, and managing large-scale water distribution systems. The schedule is Monday - Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.

Requirements

• Three or more years of experience managing water distribution systems.
• Missouri Drinking Water Distribution Operator Certification Level DS-III or the ability to obtain it within the first year of employment.
• Experience leading personnel and managing operational budgets.
• Working knowledge of Missouri drinking water regulations and distribution system requirements.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with a good driving record.
• Ability to regularly lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to walk active job sites and distribution system facilities.
• Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and access utility infrastructure as needed.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to respond to operational and emergency situations when necessary.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all safety procedures.

Nice To Haves

• Technical or vocational training is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and reliability of a large and complex drinking water distribution system serving approximately 150,000 residents across a 600-square-mile service area.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 12 skilled water distribution professionals, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Manage an annual operating budget of approximately $1.7 million, ensuring efficient and reliable system performance.
• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and reliability of more than 700 miles of water distribution piping and associated infrastructure.
• Direct a proactive valve maintenance program, exercising approximately 12,000 system valves on a five-year rotation.
• Coordinate the annual testing of approximately 5,800 fire hydrants to support public safety and system readiness.
• Manage system flushing programs, including the annual flushing of approximately 1,400 dead-end water mains to maintain water quality throughout the distribution network.
• Plan, prioritize, and execute maintenance, repair, and capital improvement projects across the system.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable drinking water regulations and operational requirements.
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to deliver exceptional service and operational performance.
• Support emergency response efforts and system reliability initiatives as needed.

Benefits

• Employee ownership and the opportunity to share in the company's success.
• Career growth and advancement opportunities within a national engineering and operations firm.
• The opportunity to lead a high-performing team serving a large and growing community.
• Support for professional development and industry certifications.
• Collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, scientists, and environmental professionals.
• Meaningful work that helps protect public health and ensure reliable drinking water service.
• A culture focused on safety, teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Comprehensive benefits package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED