Water Operations Supervisor - Stanford University

Stanford University is seeking a Water Operations Supervisor to help lead its water systems into an exciting new era defined by complexity, innovation, and sustainability. Based on-site in Palo Alto, CA, this role is integral to Stanford's transformative efforts, including harnessing campus runoff through stormwater capture systems, upgrading creek diversion facilities, and modernizing infrastructure with advanced instrumentation to ensure efficiency for years to come. You'll oversee daily operations such as managing water distribution systems, storm drains, and sanitary sewers, while inspecting and maintaining critical infrastructure like reservoirs, pump stations, and SCADA systems. Leading a dedicated team of nine technicians, you'll plan and direct activities, ensure regulatory compliance, and respond to emergencies.

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Another Source's client, Stanford University, is recruiting a Water Operations Supervisor to join their team on-site in Palo Alto, CA.

Here's a little about Stanford University Water Resources and Civil Infrastructure (WRCI) Group and the position they are recruiting for:

The Water Resources and Civil Infrastructure (WRCI) Group, part of the Sustainability & Energy Management division within Stanford University's Land, Buildings, and Real Estate Department, consists of three specialized teams: Engineering, Water Planning & Stewardship, and the Water Shop. Together, these teams oversee the engineering, operation, and maintenance of Stanford's extensive civil infrastructure, including water distribution systems, storm drainage systems, sanitary sewer systems, roads, bridges, and dams, all managed with a strong focus on sustainability. Stanford's water systems encompass domestic (potable) water, lake water for irrigation, and alternative water supplies, supported by critical infrastructure such as wells, reservoirs, pump stations, creek diversion facilities, and an extensive pipe network. The scale and complexity of Stanford's water and civil infrastructure rival those of a medium-sized city or special district.

Learn more about Stanford University Water Resources and Civil Infrastructure (WRCI) Group here: https://suwater.stanford.edu/about

The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $143,000 - $164,000 dependent on experience.

Job Description:

The Water Operations Supervisor serves as a first-line leader, overseeing the day-to-day operations of Stanford University's campus water systems. This position is responsible for planning and directing the activities of the water operations team, which comprises nine full-time bargaining unit technicians, one part-time technician, and contracted crew personnel. The supervisor ensures the efficient operation, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of the university's sanitary sewer, storm drain, and water distribution systems, while actively supporting Stanford's commitment to sustainability initiatives.

What you will be doing:

Planning and directing the activities of the water operations team.

• Collaborating with the water systems technician lead to motivate, schedule, and instruct technicians.

• Operating and maintaining sanitary sewer, storm drain, and water distribution systems and facilities.

• Ensuring compliance with Stanford's water rights and California State Water Resources Control Board regulations.

• Managing various water distribution systems, including domestic, fire suppression, lake (irrigation), recycled, low-temperature hot water, and chilled water systems.

• Overseeing major system components such as reservoirs, pump stations, dams, metering stations, pressure regulators, and SCADA systems.

• Conducting preventive maintenance, sampling, and flushing of water systems.

• Routinely inspecting all system components, including utility holes, cleanouts, inlets, lift stations, and stormwater treatment components.

• Responding to emergencies and system problems, prioritizing actions to mitigate issues.

• Coordinating shutdowns for new connections and monitoring system controls.

• Overseeing the operation of sewer cleaning equipment for training purposes.

• Planning and managing new connections to the water systems.

• Troubleshooting and managing SCADA problems and upgrades.

• Updating design standards and system maps.

• Assisting with construction inspection activities and reviewing plans for new connections and system expansions.

• Collaborating with the director to prepare and manage the annual budget for the water operations team and system.

• Managing system capital improvement projects and assisting with the implementation of the asset management program.

• Responding to customer inquiries and complaints regarding water quality, pressure, taste, odor, leaks, and blockages.

Minimum Qualifications:

• At least 5 years in a lead technician or supervisory position with managing technicians.

• CA DODW Grade 3 Water Distribution Operator certification (D3) required.

• AWWA Cross Control Connection certification required.

• AWWA Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification with knowledge of testing and maintenance.

• Knowledge of CAL/OSHA environmental and safety rules, regulations, and policies. Ability to conduct job site inspections to ensure compliance.

• Underground piping systems construction experience required.

• Technical competence with all system components described above.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, VPN, and SCADA systems.

• Demonstrated experience managing service contracts; developing and managing budgets; and planning, developing, and implementing programs.

• Ability to interpret planning specifications, documents, working drawings, and related reports.

• Must have proven experience effectively leading water operations crews

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prefer a minimum of 10 years of experience in water systems operations.

• Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering or other relevant technical area preferred, or a combination of technical education, training, and experience.

• Previous experience working with Collective Bargaining Agreement desired.

• CA DODW Grade 3 Water Treatment Operator certification (T3) desired.

Why Stanford is for You: https://careersearch.stanford.edu/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.

• $6,000+ in tuition and training assistance annually

• Up to 50% of Stanford's annual tuition cost applied to your child's undergraduate tuition

• 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!

• 18+PTO/Vacation days per year

• Up to 5% of your base pay contributed automatically to your 403(b) + a generous match

• 100% of your retirement account is fully vested immediately

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination:

Stanford is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Another Source works with their clients, on a retained project basis. We are committed to building inclusive candidate pools as we partner with hiring teams. Veterans, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. As you read through the job posting and review the list of qualifications (required and/or preferred), please do not self-select out if you feel you do not meet every qualification. No one is 100% qualified. We encourage you to apply and share your story with us.

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