General Manager of Operations

The Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA), is Carrboro-Chapel Hill’s not-for-profit public service agency delivering high-quality water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services.  OWASA seeks a General Manager of Operations to lead and direct the overall operation and maintenance of the water, wastewater and reclaimed water systems and programs.  The ideal candidate should possess outstanding communication skills and have a demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and coach staff.  Must be able to set clearly defined goals, evaluate progress, and change course as necessary to fulfill the mission and goals of OWASA while ensuring that safe work practices are followed.  Must be a trusted steward of the environment, our natural resources and the organization’s financial resources.  Must be community minded and be innovative in their approach to problem solving.  A service-oriented attitude, responsiveness, professionalism, and a passion to foster a diverse and inclusive work environment are necessary.  

OWASA is a leader in the utility industry. Our Mason Farm Wastewater Treatment Plant is a participant in the national Partnership for Clean Water initiative for optimization and continuous improvement. Our Jones Ferry Road Water Treatment Plant is a recipient of the Partnership for Safe Water’s Excellence in Water Treatment Award. Our water distribution system is a recipient of the Partnership for Safe Water’s Presidents Award.

This position is responsible for ensuring that OWASA provides high-quality and reliable services to our customers.  Provides visioning and general direction for three department managers while indirectly leading a total staff of about 90 employees in the water supply and treatment, wastewater management, water distribution & wastewater collection systems departments. Responsible for an annual operating budget of about $15 million. This position meets and works closely with customers, local government and university officials, regulators, consultants, and other stakeholders.  Develops performance metrics and seeks continuous improvements in all aspects of the operation and regularly presents information and recommendations for OWASA’s Board of Directors.  Position reports directly to OWASA’s Executive Director.

Position requires seven to nine years of progressive management experience directing a water and/or wastewater utility. Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering, environmental sciences, or related field. Licensure as a Professional Engineer and/or certifications in water and wastewater treatment are highly desired, but not required.

OWASA provides excellent benefits to include membership in the NC Local Government Employees Retirement System, employer 457 plan contribution and retirement health savings account.  Paid Health, Dental, Vision and Life insurances.  Additional benefits include:  Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick and Personal Leave, Bereavement and Parental Leave, Educational Reimbursement, Bonus Pay for Additional Certifications and/or Education.   

OWASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to continuous improvement, sustainability, creativity, diversity, and inclusion. OWASA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, or sex in administration of its programs or activities, and, OWASA does not retaliate against any individual because they have exercised their rights to participate in actions protected by 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7; oppose actions prohibited by 40 C.F.R. Parts 5 and 7, or for the purpose of interfering with such rights.

Certified Orange County Living Wage Employer.   

Salary range $116,378 - $179,224  

To complete an application visit www.owasa.org.   

Closing date is July 31, 2020