Water Reclamation Manager bei City of Bend, OR

About the Department

The City of Bend is accepting applications for one (1) regular, full-time Water Reclamation Manager in the Water Services Division of the Public Works Department. This opportunity is non-represented and FLSA exempt (overtime ineligible). The City may use this job posting to create an eligibility list for future hiring purposes. Please review the entire job posting, including the application requirements at the end.

The Water Reclamation Manager is a key leader responsible for overseeing the daily operations of Bend’s Water Reclamation Facility (WRF). From treating and recycling water to maintaining equipment and managing a skilled team of operators and mechanics, this person ensures that everything runs smoothly and the water we return to the environment is safe. A typical day might involve checking on treatment processes, reviewing lab data, coordinating maintenance schedules, and making sure the facility meets all environmental regulations. The manager also plays a big role in planning for the future, helping to design upgrades and expansions that support Bend’s growing community.

Beyond the technical side, this role is deeply collaborative. The Water Reclamation Manager works closely with other city departments, responds to public inquiries, and represents the Water Services Division in meetings and outreach efforts. They help bring the City’s OneWater vision to life, an approach that treats water as a shared resource, and apply the Effective Utility Management framework to drive continuous improvement. The Water Reclamation Manager is at the heart of efforts to protect public health and the environment while supporting sustainable growth. 

For more information check out the Water Reclamation Manager Brochure.

Classification Framework: Manager III

Position Duties

The following duties are a sample of major duties performed in this role and not intended to be an 
exhaustive list. 

• Serve as the designated Treatment Supervisor per OAR 340-049-0015 to oversee preparation and submission of required reports to ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Monitor and optimize treatment processes to meet permit requirements and performance goals by developing and implementing process control strategies using operational and laboratory data and coordinating with laboratory staff to ensure accurate sampling and testing in accordance with permit and management plan requirements.
• Inspect equipment and facilities to determine maintenance needs and operational reliability by overseeing preventative, corrective and predictive maintenance programs to ensure consistent use of asset management systems to support budgeting and capital planning.
• Promote a culture of teamwork, communication, and continuous improvement by supervising and evaluating staff performance, assigning work, ensuring training and policy adherence, and actively participating in hiring, disciplinary actions, and employee development.
• Prepare and manage the biennial Water Reclamation Facility budget, including operations, maintenance, and capital expenditures; recommend and approve purchases and contracted services; monitor spending and adjust resource allocations to meet operational needs.
• Develop and amend capital improvement programs to maintain system capacity and service level while considering and participating in long-range, master planning and strategic initiatives for facility upgrades and expansions.
• Promote safe work practices and maintain emergency response readiness, including on-call availability by conducting safety audits, training and maintaining emergency procedures to ensure compliance with OSHA and other safety requirements. 
• Collaborate with other departments to support city-wide initiatives, represent the Water Services Division in meetings with City Council, boards, and professional groups; respond to public inquiries and complaints; conduct facility tours and outreach.

• In an emergency event or an officially declared State of Emergency, responds as directed to ensure the restoration of essential public services, facilities, and infrastructure.
• Performs related duties as necessary to achieve the objectives of the position.

Minimum Qualifications

We're looking for someone who is a self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and accountability. The ideal candidate is an engaging communicator who can build trust across teams and departments. They should be comfortable making decisions, solving complex problems, and leading with both technical expertise and emotional intelligence. 

Someone who: Has advanced wastewater treatment processes and the regulatory frameworks that govern them and is familiar with asset management systems and preventative maintenance strategies and know how to interpret laboratory data to optimize process control. 

Skills in: Leading and developing high-performing teams; communicating technical information to diverse audiences; evaluating and implementing system upgrades and expansions; navigating emergency response and safety protocols; driving continuous improvement.

Candidates who meet the listed minimum qualifications, including an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered for an interview. Please ensure your application includes information about your education, relevant paid and unpaid work experience, and applicable licenses and certifications. Avoid referencing your resume in the job duties section of the application.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience that provides required knowledge, skill and abilities and course work in sanitary or utility engineering, or a related field.
• 6 to 8 years of experience in wastewater treatment.
• 4 to 5 years of managerial experience. 

Required Certifications

• Current and valid Driver's license per City policies outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Oregon Grade IV Wastewater Treatment System Operator or;
• Equivalent certification with ability to obtain Oregon certification within 18 months.

Other Qualifications

Application Deadline: Applications received by September 26, 2025, (9/26/2025) at 12:00 PM (noon) Pacific Time will be included in an initial review and consideration for interview; however, the position will remain open until filled.

Application Requirements: To be considered for an interview, applicants must complete an online application including the following attachments (failure to include required attachments may result in disqualification): 

• Cover Letter 
• Resume 
• Valid Credentials, Certifications and Licensing