Description
DEPARTMENT PURPOSE
Provide safe and reliable drinking water services for the health and safety of the community by maintaining the water system infrastructure and ensuring adequate water for fire protection.
POSITION PURPOSE
Responsible leadership of the Water and Hydroelectric Services Department by setting policy and directing various functional units of the department. Facilitates collaboration with other Public Works and City departments to supporting infrastructure, operations and services provided to the citizens of Spokane. Expected oversight includes but is not limited to maintenance and construction, operations of reservoirs, wells and booster stations, taps and meter systems, project planning, coordination and management. This position also manages the operation of the City’s Upriver Dam, a FERCregulated hydroelectric project and all associated hydroelectric facilities.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Has complete responsibility for guidance, training, mentoring, development and direction of all employees in the Water and Hydroelectric Services Department. Provide leadership and cohesive team building strategies to direct and indirect reports in professional, administrative, and technical positions.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Ensure compliance with Public Potable Water Regulations set forth by federal, state, and local government including pending legislation;
- Stay current with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), Washington Industrial Safety & Health Administration (WISHA) and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations and provide compliant supervision, direction and control for the employees and the public;
- Direct, supervise and control the operation of the City’s water distribution system, municipal water and hydroelectric facilities;
- Works in conjunction with internal and external partners on the preparation of extensive studies related to current capacity planning, rate setting, programming and development. Analyze their affect and develop plans for the present and future;
- Attend applicable meetings and hearings regarding various public utilities functions. Work with local, regional, state and federal agencies and organizations regarding drinking water standards, aquifer protection, water conservation, and regulatory compliance;
- Works in cooperation with the Communications Department to provide timely and proactive communications regarding department operations and their impact to the community.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
Knowledge of:
- Operations, personnel management, and fiscal management of municipal water systems;
- Water quality and public health protection requirements of a public water system and legal requirements for its operation;
- City regulatory codes, ordinances and safety-related regulations;
- Cross connection control;
- Fiscal budgeting and funding process
Ability to:
- Meet deadlines and work under pressure;
- Work cooperatively with others and maintain positive relationships;
- Adapt to other duties as assigned and prioritize, organize, and plan work as needed to meet objectives;
- Analyze planning studies and formulate substantive recommendations;
- Proficiently engage in public speaking to a diverse audience.