Woodard & Curran

Water Distribution Manager

Woodard & Curran · O'Fallon, MO
O'Fallon, MO $95K–$105K Posted 2026-09-17
Salary
$95K–$105K
Type
Full-time
Experience
5+ yr

Woodard & Curran is an employee-owned engineering, science, and operations firm dedicated to clean water, a safe environment, healthy communities, and happy people. We foster an inclusive, collaborative culture that supports professional growth, flexibility, and meaningful work, empowering our employees to make a lasting impact on our clients, communities, and the planet.

Woodard & Curran offers a comprehensive benefits package. For more information about our benefits & workplace policies visit Benefit & Policy Information - Woodard & Curran.

E-Verify Participation: Woodard & Curran participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. As part of this process, we provide access to the Right to Work & E-Verify postings.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accessibility: Woodard & Curran is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to non-discrimination and make employment decisions based on job-related factors. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact Beth Sweitzer.
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As Water Distribution Manager, you'll oversee the operation, maintenance, and reliability of a large and complex drinking water distribution system serving approximately 150,000 residents across a 600-square-mile service area.

In this role, you will:

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 12 skilled water distribution professionals, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
  • Manage an annual operating budget of approximately $1.7 million, ensuring efficient and reliable system performance.
  • Oversee the maintenance, repair, and reliability of more than 700 miles of water distribution piping and associated infrastructure.
  • Direct a proactive valve maintenance program, exercising approximately 12,000 system valves on a five-year rotation.
  • Coordinate the annual testing of approximately 5,800 fire hydrants to support public safety and system readiness.
  • Manage system flushing programs, including the annual flushing of approximately 1,400 dead-end water mains to maintain water quality throughout the distribution network.
  • Plan, prioritize, and execute maintenance, repair, and capital improvement projects across the system.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable drinking water regulations and operational requirements.
  • Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to deliver exceptional service and operational performance.
  • Support emergency response efforts and system reliability initiatives as needed.

This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on critical public infrastructure while leading a dedicated team responsible for delivering safe, reliable drinking water to the communities we serve.

  • Three or more years of experience managing water distribution systems.
  • Missouri Drinking Water Distribution Operator Certification Level DS-III or the ability to obtain it within the first year of employment.
  • Experience leading personnel and managing operational budgets.
  • Working knowledge of Missouri drinking water regulations and distribution system requirements.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational training is preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Physical Requirements:

This position includes a combination of office and field-based work. Candidates must be able to:

  • Regularly lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Walk active job sites and distribution system facilities.
  • Climb ladders, stairs, and access utility infrastructure as needed.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Respond to operational and emergency situations when necessary.
  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all safety procedures.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a background check, pre-employment physical, and drug screening prior to employment.

  • Employee ownership and the opportunity to share in the company's success.
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities within a national engineering and operations firm.
  • The opportunity to lead a high-performing team serving a large and growing community.
  • Support for professional development and industry certifications.
  • Collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, scientists, and environmental professionals.
  • Meaningful work that helps protect public health and ensure reliable drinking water service.
  • A culture focused on safety, teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced water professional looking to grow their leadership career while making a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Join Woodard & Curran and help deliver safe, reliable water while leading a team committed to operational excellence.
Depending on qualifications and experience.

$60K — 10th pctl $230K — 90th pctl
This role’s midpoint $100K vs. market median $130K for Operations roles
-25%
below median
Based on 19,000+ Operations roles with disclosed salary ranges tracked on NewJob.
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