Water Utility Manager

RECRUITMENT OVERVIEW - Come Grow with Us!

The City of Tulare is searching for its next Water Utility Manager - someone who has proven technical skills, the required certifications and a steady, practical approach to overseeing vital infrastructure.  This position offers the chance to lead in an organization that values teamwork and trust and embodies genuine respect for their team.

As our next Water Utility Manager, you'll take on a leadership role that blends technical expertise with thoughtful, people-centered supervision. Both the Water Division and the Sewer Collection Division are supported by experienced staff and well-established operating practices, giving you a foundation for success. Your focus will be on maintaining system reliability, enhancing operational efficiency and guiding your team through ongoing growth, regulatory demands and major infrastructure initiatives.

This position is ideal for a results-driven leader with a strong foundation in public infrastructure and a passion for shaping efficient, forward-thinking city operations.

We are looking for a highly motivated, experienced, and dynamic utility management professional with extensive experience in water distribution and wastewater collection systems. The ideal candidate will have strong administrative and leadership skills, a deep understanding of federal and state regulations, and a proven ability to manage staff, budgets, and complex projects effectively. They will be a steady, approachable leader who blends technical expertise with genuine respect for the people doing the work and values Tulare's "Opportunity Grows Here" philosophy.

You're an candidate if you are:

* Able to demonstrate a track record of successfully managing people, projects, and division-level operations.

* Skilled in administrative principles, including goal setting, policy implementation, project management, and budget administration.

* Someone who possesses extensive knowledge of the maintenance and operations of water wells, lift stations, distribution pipes, and related appurtenances.

* Well-versed in applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations governing water and wastewater utilities

* Skilled at building a positive, team-oriented work environment where people feel respected and empowered to do their best

Please view our Recruitment Brochure for more detailed information!

ABOUT THE CITY OF TULARE

Tulare is a full-service Charter City with approximately 400 full-time employees. The City of Tulare is a supportive organization where people take pride in their work and in the community they serve. Tulare is a place where people can grow professionally, a place that values innovation and a place where people can make a positive and lasting change in the community.

Tulare's Public Works Department oversees a wide range of essential services that support the community's infrastructure and quality of life.  

Infrastructure Highlights:  23 Active Wells; 125,000 Gallon Water Storage Tower; 5.5 Million Gallons of Total Concrete Water Storage; 7 GAC Treatment Sites; 277 Miles of Water Transmission and Distribution Mains; 2,500+ Fire Hydrants; 234 Miles of Sanitary Sewer.

The Water Division ensures the delivery of safe, reliable drinking and long-term aquifer sustainability.  It oversees water quality compliance, conservation programs, groundwater recharge, hydrant testing, system repairs and meter service.

The Sewer Collection Division maintains and repairs the City's sanitary sewer lines and lift stations and inspects new installations to ensure they meet City standards. Together, these divisions form a core part of Tulare's utility operations, protecting public health and supporting future growth.

The City has a total budget of approximately $177.9M with a general fund of $69.8 million, and $55.7 million for the municipal utilities enterprise funds, i.e. water, solid waste, and wastewater funds.  The budget includes Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) appropriations for fiscal year 2026 of $3.2 million in general CIP and $13.9 million between water and wastewater CIP.

APPLICATION PROCESS

This recruitment will remain open until filled.  Our first review of candidates will occur on February 17th.  Qualified applicants are encourage to apply by that date.

To be considered for this position qualified applicants must submit an application with detailed information in each section of the application:
Education, Work History, Certificates and Licenses, and Skills.

In addition to submitting a detailed application, applicants are required to respond to the supplemental questions associated with the application and attach the required certificates.  Responses to the supplemental questions will be used to evaluate applicants' qualifying knowledge, skills, and abilities. Resumes may be attached but will not be accepted in lieu of a complete, detailed application.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Under general direction, plans, organizes, oversees, coordinates, and reviews the work of staff…