Utilities Operations and Maintenance Superintendent (Water Quality Lab and R&D)

About the Team

This role sits within the Water Division of the City of Sacramento, a critical unit dedicated to ensuring a safe and reliable drinking water supply for more than 527,000 customers. The Utilities Operations and Maintenance Superintendent leads the Water Quality Laboratory and Research & Development (WQLRD) section, managing a team of sixteen scientists and administrative professionals. The team operates with an annual budget of approximately $3 million, focusing on public health protection, regulatory compliance, and the continuous improvement of the city's water systems through research and engineering innovation.

About the Role

As the Utilities Operations and Maintenance Superintendent, you will serve as the strategic leader for the WQLRD section, bridging the gap between technical scientific operations and citywide administrative goals. You will plan, coordinate, and administer programs that have a direct impact on the safety of the city's water infrastructure. Your day-to-day involves overseeing laboratory certification, managing research initiatives, and ensuring strict adherence to City and Department of Utilities policies within a public-sector environment.

You will provide limited direction to subordinate supervisors and staff, guiding them through complex challenges ranging from water quality incident responses to the implementation of strategic capital improvement projects. This position requires a unique blend of technical expertise in water chemistry and microbiology, alongside strong leadership skills to foster employee development and maintain effective relationships with regulators, elected officials, and internal divisions.

Hiring Process

The City of Sacramento utilizes a rigorous selection procedure to identify the most qualified candidates. The process includes the following steps:

1. Application: Submit a complete online employment application via the City's portal. Paper applications are not accepted. You must detail your work experience in the designated section; "see resume" is not permitted. Proof of education and required certifications must be uploaded with your application.
2. Supplemental Questionnaire: Complete and submit the online supplemental questionnaire by the filing deadline. Omitted information cannot be assumed or added later.
3. Screening Committee: The hiring department reviews all applications to select the most competitive candidates based on the minimum qualifications and supplemental responses.
4. Interview Process: Qualified candidates will be invited to participate in an interview process to further assess their fit for the role.

Important Communication Note: The City's preferred method of communication is email. Applicants must verify their email address on the application and check their inbox (including spam/junk folders) frequently for notifications.

Our Commitment to Diversity

The City of Sacramento is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the community we serve. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.