Director of Operations (State & Military Services)

Job Description

Job Title: Director of Operations (State & Military Services)

Posting Start Date: 10/4/25

Job Description:

Primary Role

- Lead State and Military Services Group/Contract Services Group (MSG/CSG) operations in the state of Hawaii.

- Responsible for business development, regulatory and community outreach work.

- Oversee operations and capital activities for groups of contracts for the Military Services Group or the Contract Services Group (MSG/CSG).

- Has ultimate responsibility and accountability for operational and capital success, capital program delivery, financial performance, contract compliance, and customer satisfaction across multiple operating locations in Hawaii.

- Primary responsibilities include managerial oversight and providing strategic leadership for the assigned project/operating locations in Hawaii.

Posted Range:

$145,600 - $231,400

- The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity.

- In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

- American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!

Key Accountabilities

- Operate water/wastewater systems in compliance at all times.

- Lead business development efforts for regulated and non-regulated operations if needed.

- Interact with elected and appointed officials, PUC commissioners, community representatives.

- Deliver on AW system metrics.

- Manage the safe and reliable operations of water and wastewater utility systems.

- Ensure public and employee safety in service delivery.

- Maintain compliance with environmental and safety regulations and ensure that operational integrity (quality, environment, reliability, health, safety, security, etc.) is maintained.

- Oversee the regional capital investment program (planning, procurement, delivery, close-out) to ensure that it meets the requirements and needs of the installation and other key stakeholders where applicable.

- Monitor and manage the capital program schedule and financial performance at regional level where applicable.

- Maintain contractual compliance.

- Achieve compliance with all contractual service delivery requirements and ensure compliance with all applicable federal contracting compliance and Department of Defense rules and regulations. (Military Service Group Only)

- Work with the federal government on contracting matters, including negotiating price and scope changes, and overseeing Contract Modifications. (Military Service Group Only)

- Lead employees and processes to achieve efficient operations and service excellence.

- Foster employee growth and development through guidance, training, coaching, and succession planning.

- Communicate regularly with employees. Ensure employee awareness of, and compliance with prescribed AW Policies and Procedures.

- Implement AW Employee performance management plans.

- Achieve approved financial targets, and financial reporting deadlines for operations, maintenance and capital construction programs.

- Develop corrective action plans for expense items that exceed budget, or revenue.

Knowledge/Skills

- Working knowledge of managing and implementing capital improvement programs.

- Working knowledge of water and wastewater system operations and maintenance requirements, including regulatory compliance.

- Excellent organizational and prioritization skills.

- Effective leadership and management. Demonstration of visible “leadership-by-example,” and values-based leadership.

- Strong IT skills - proficient in MS Office especially Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and comfortable with integrating technology into operational and capital processes.

- Strong team leader and influencer with good relationship & networking skills.

- Effective communication skills written & oral.

- Process-orientation mindset, and comfortable with driving change management activities.

- Highly motivated, innovative, flexible & enthusiastic attitude.

- Ability to interact with a diverse range of individuals and possess excellent functional / technical skills.

- Negotiation skills and experience, preferably within the context of federal contracting.

- Strong public speaking experience.

- Ability to resolve complex issues, and achieve outcomes that effectively balance customer, company, and employee requirements.

- Ability to troubleshoot complex problems, beyond area of expertise to ensure safety, environmental, financial, regulatory compliance, personnel, governmental contracting, and individual base issues are addressed effectively.

Experience/Education

- BA/BS in Engineering, preferred or relevant equivalent experience.

- PE and/or water/wastewater operator license desired.

- 15+ years of management experience in Water/ Waste/Wastewater industry and business experience.

- Working experience with federal contract management and negotiation.

- Experience in contracts with the Department of Defense or other federal government agencies.

Travel Requirements

- 25 % across operating units and bases.

Scope

- This is a senior people leader role with a high degree of responsibility & accountability.

Key Relationships:

- Unions, PUC Commissioners and staff, community, local DOD.

Work Environment

- Standard office environment including operating plant visits.

Competencies

Drives Safety Culture

Drives Vision & Purpose

Strategic & Learning Agility

Political & Organizational Savvy

Builds Effective Teams & Network

Situational Adaptability

Persuades