Water Systems Operations Manager

Stanford University•Stanford, CA

36d•Onsite

About The Position

The Water Systems Operations Manager is a first-line supervisory position responsible for overseeing the water systems operation on Stanford University's campus. This role involves planning and directing the activities of the water operations team, which includes nine full-time bargaining unit technicians, as well as contracted crew personnel and contractors. The supervisor ensures the efficient operation and maintenance of the university's sanitary sewer, storm drain, and water distribution systems, while adhering to regulatory compliance and supporting sustainability initiatives.

Requirements

Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field preferred; or an equivalent combination of relevant technical education, training, and experience.
Minimum of 10 years' experience in water systems operations, including at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role overseeing and leading technicians.
Prior experience working within the guidelines of a Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Proven track record of effectively leading water operations crews and managing service contracts.
Demonstrated experience in the development and management of budgets and programs.
Hands-on experience with underground piping systems construction required.
California DODW Grade 3 Water Distribution Operator certification (D3) required.
AWWA Cross Connection Control certification required.
AWWA Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification required, with demonstrated knowledge of assembly testing and maintenance.
Strong technical expertise across all system components outlined above.
Familiarity with CAL/OSHA environmental and safety regulations, including the ability to conduct job site inspections to ensure compliance.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, VPN, and SCADA systems.
Ability to interpret planning specifications, working drawings, and related technical reports.
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills in English.
Exceptional interpersonal skills, with a calm and professional demeanor.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively across departments, agencies, contractors, and with service customers.
Proven ability to deliver excellent customer service, especially when addressing customers affected by system problems or service interruptions.
Responsive, assertive, and cooperative, with a commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and teamwork.
Frequently sitting, perform desk-based computer tasks, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds.
Occasionally stand/walk, twist/bend/stoop/squat, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, use a telephone, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 11-20 pounds.
Rarely kneel/crawl, climb (ladders, scaffolds, or other), reach/work above shoulders, grasp forcefully, writing by hand, sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh >40 pounds.
Must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment (e.g., hard hat, gloves, apron, safety shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection)
Requires 24-hour response availability seven days per week for emergency situations through possible inclement weather to address water, sewer, or drainage system problems and emergencies.
May be exposed to noise > 80dB TWA.
May work at heights 4 - 10 ft.
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

Nice To Haves

California DODW Grade 3 Water Treatment Operator certification (T3) highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Lead, motivate, and mentor team members, in close collaboration with the lead technician, to ensure effective operational performance.
Responsible for managing the recruiting process in alignment with the university policies and procedures.
Oversee employee scheduling, work assignments, and daily communications for technicians and technical staff.
Review and approve timecards, manage staff schedules, and process time-off requests.
Support personnel development by providing regular feedback and guidance.
Evaluate employee performance and conduct annual performance reviews.
Oversee contracted crew personnel and contractors.
Operate and maintain sanitary sewer, storm drain, water supply & distribution systems, and related facilities; the water systems include domestic/fire, recycled and non-potable ("Lake") water systems.
Ensure compliance with Stanford's water rights and California State Water Resources Control Board regulations.
Execute operation & maintenance activities as directed by Energy Operations on the thermal energy water systems: low temperature hot water and chilled water.
Operate and maintain all major system components such as reservoirs, pump stations, dams, diversion facilities, fish ladders, metering stations, pressure regulators, and SCADA systems.
Program and conduct all preventive maintenance, exercising, sampling, and flushing operations of all water systems.
Routinely inspect all system components, including manholes, cleanouts, inlets, lift stations, and stormwater treatment components.
Maintain an appropriate inventory of replacement equipment and parts.
Respond to emergencies and system problems, prioritizing actions to mitigate issues.
Coordinate shutdowns for new connections and monitor system controls.
Oversee the operation of sewer cleaning equipment for training purposes.
Facilitate, schedule, and oversee all new connections to the water systems.
Troubleshoot and manage SCADA problems and upgrades.
Update design standards and system maps.
Assist with construction inspection activities and review plans for new connections and system expansions.
Collaborate with the director to prepare and manage the annual budget for the water operations team and system.
Approve purchases and manage the inventory of equipment and supplies.
Provide operational response to customer inquiries and complaints regarding water quality, pressure, taste, odor, leaks, and blockages.
Coordinate with and notify customers in advance of needed water operational service interruptions.
May perform other duties as needed.

Benefits

Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

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