Water Manager

Department:

Public Works

Division: 

Water Operations

Pay Range 

$117,665 - $171,080 Annually 

Midpoint 

$144,373 

 

Starting salaries generally fall between the minimum and midpoint of the range. Each offer depends on the candidate’s experience and qualifications, internal pay equity, and available budget. Salary offers are negotiated individually based on these factors.    

 
SUMMARY OF POSITION 

The City is seeking a skilled, hands-on leader to oversee the operation and maintenance of its potable and non-potable water treatment and delivery systems. This position performs advanced technical work to keep the City’s water infrastructure running safely, reliably, and in compliance with applicable standards, while supervising and directing assigned division staff, currently the Water Operations Supervisor and Water Maintenance Supervisor positions.

  

The full job description can be viewed on the City of Richland – Job Descriptions page.  

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 

• This is a full-time, in person position with a typical Monday – Friday schedule of 8:00am – 5:00pm.   

• This position is open until filled, with first consideration given to those applicants who apply prior to November 24th, 2026. 

Selection will be based on overall qualifications, skills testing (if applicable), and an interview process. The final candidate selected will be subject to a comprehensive background/reference check commensurate to the position.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: 

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry, biology, or related field  

• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in water system operations and maintenance 

• Two (2) years in supervisory role 

Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered. 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Valid driver’s license 

• Water Distribution Manager IV certification or obtain within six (6) months of hire 

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS 

• Experience with both potable and non-potable (irrigation) systems 

• Working knowledge of SCADA, telemetry, and automated control systems 

• Familiarity with WA DOH regulations, and water quality sampling and reporting 

• Experience developing budgets, capital project input, and long-range maintenance plans 

• Experience working in a unionized or public-sector environment 

 

WE ARE RICHLAND 

At the City of Richland, your work makes a difference every day. From maintaining essential services to enhancing our community, you’ll be part of a team that values teamwork, integrity and excellence in what we do. 

With a strong sense of purpose, great benefits, and a commitment to growth, we are building a community we’re proud to serve. 

Richland sits where the Columbia and Yakima rivers meet in Washington’s Tri-Cities. It’s a growing community known for its scientific roots, sunny climate, riverfront trails, and nearby wine country. The Public Works Department keeps that community running, maintaining the streets, utilities, and water systems residents rely on every day. 

Richland Rewards – Supporting Those Who Serve 

Regular Full-Time (35 to 40 hr/week) Employee Benefits 

• Excellent open access (preferred provider) medical plan with substantial City-paid contribution 

• City-paid dental and vision plans 

• City-paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance (equals two times the employee's annual salary) 

• City-paid Long-Term Disability Insurance 

• Participation in the State of Washington's Retirement Plan (PERS) 

• Paid Time Off (PTO) 

• 10 Paid Holidays 

• 4% City-match deferred compensation with 457 and 401(a) plan options 

• • Management receives 3% employer contribution to the 401(a) 

• Extended Sick Leave (ESL) 

• Section 125 - Flexible Benefits Plan (Medical/Dependent Care) 

• City Paid and Employee Paid Retirement Health Savings Plan 

• Employee Assistance Program 

• Annual Performance Assessment System 

Paid Time Off (PTO) Accrual 

Regular Full-Time (40hr) Accrual Rates. (The accrual rates for full time (30-34hr) and part-time positions are pro-rated based upon the position's budgeted hours.) 

 

Years of Continuous Service / Maximum Hours Per Month 

0 months through 6 months / 13.33 hours per month 

6 months through 9 years / 20.33 hours per month 

10 years through 15 years / 22.33 hours per month 

16 years through 20 years / 24.33 hours per month 

Over 20 years / 26.33 hours per month 

 

Note: Unaffiliated staff (non-union employees) may receive some or all of the benefits listed below based on the Compensation Plan for Unaffiliated Employees (Comp Plan) with the City; consult the Comp Plan for specific information about position benefits. 

The City is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting and retaining a highly qualified and diversified work force.  Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age (over 40), martial or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.
 
In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities will be provided for participation in the application and selection process, if requested.  Persons with a disability who need assistance must notify the Human Resources Department about the accommodation needed at the time of application and prior to the closing date by calling (509) 942-7392. 
 
The provisions of job announcements listed on this website do not constitute an expressed, or implied, contract of employment with the City.  Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.