Water Superintendent

POSITION TITLE:                      WATER SUPERINTENDENT

                                                            DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

                                                            USW – GRADE 14

                                                            FULL-TIME (40 HOURS PER WEEK)

                                                            HIRING PAY RANGE: $101,522.72 TO $112,062.08 PER YEAR

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Water Superintendent is responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and management of the Town’s water distribution and treatment systems. This position ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to water quality and supply. The Water Superintendent plans, directs, and coordinates activities of the Water Department, including staff supervision, budgeting, capital planning, emergency response, and public outreach.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage and oversee daily operations of the water treatment and distribution system.


• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, EPA and DEP, standards.


• Develop and implement standard operating procedures, preventative maintenance schedules, and safety programs.


• Supervise and direct water department personnel, including training, performance evaluations, and scheduling.


• Monitor water quality through routine sampling and testing; take corrective action as necessary.


• Prepare, administer and monitor the department’s operating and capital budgets.


• Coordinate with engineers, contractors, and regulatory agencies on infrastructure projects and system upgrades.


• Respond to and manage water-related emergencies, such as main breaks, equipment failures, or contamination events.


• Develop and recommend updates to policies, ordinances and procedures related to water services.


• Maintain accurate records and reports, including water usage data, testing results and maintenance logs.


• Oversee metering operations, billing coordination, and customer support functions.


• Serve as the primary contact for public inquiries, concerns, and complaints related to water services.


• Ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of system components such as pumps, valves, hydrants, and meters.


• Attend continuing education, and training to stay informed on regulatory changes and industry best practices.


• Assist in identifying and applying for grant funding opportunities to support water infrastructure improvements.


• Collaborate with the DPW Director and Community & Economic Development Director to support property owners and developers with system connection inquiries.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Extensive knowledge of water treatment and distribution systems, regulations, and best practices.


• Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and chemical processes used in water treatment.


• Ability to interpret and apply federal and state regulations.


• Skilled in budgeting, planning, and project management.


• Excellent supervisory and interpersonal communication skills.


• Ability to respond to emergencies outside of normal working hours.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

• High School Diploma or GED required, associate or bachelor’s degree in environmental science, civil engineering, or related field preferred.


• Minimum 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in water system operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:

• Valid Massachusetts Driver’s license


• Grade II Treatment license


• Backflow Prevention Device Tester Certification (preferred or ability to obtain).


• OSHA 10 or 30 certification (preferred).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work is performed both in an office and in the field under varying weather conditions.


• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform manual labor as needed.


• Exposure to hazardous chemicals, confined spaces, and loud equipment may occur.


• On-call availability required for emergencies.

Diversity & Inclusion is a key component of our success as an organization. The Town of Bridgewater is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all qualified individuals—regardless of background, experience, or strengths—to apply.