Director, Strategic Operations

Highlights of the role

As a Director of Strategic Operations, you will provide strategic leadership for multi‑disciplinary operational teams responsible for water and wastewater field operations and maintenance. Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, this role is central to ensuring operational integrity, regulatory compliance, and long‑term system reliability across a complex utility environment.

You will play a key role in shaping enterprise‑wide operational strategy, guiding capital and technology investments, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen performance, efficiency, and customer service. This position partners closely with internal stakeholders and external agencies, contributes to business planning and growth initiatives, and provides executive‑level operational leadership across the organization.

What you’ll be responsible for

- Lead, coach, and develop direct and indirect reports while building a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

- Ensure operational integrity and regulatory compliance across Arizona and New Mexico facilities and operational functions

- Provide strategic and operational input into annual business plans, budgets, and performance targets

- Ensure operational and financial objectives are met or exceeded, including effective cost control and resource optimization

- Lead enterprise‑level operational initiatives, including CMMS, AMI, consolidated maintenance programs, SCADA, and operational planning

- Drive the development and implementation of capital investment programs to support system reliability and long‑term growth

- Identify and execute projects that reduce costs and enhance service levels

- Evaluate, pilot, and implement innovative technologies, tools, and methods to improve operational performance

- Negotiate intergovernmental agreements and agreements with private entities

- Provide oversight and leadership for operations across multiple jurisdictions

- Collaborate with planning and development teams to assess capacity needs and plan for facility and plant expansions

- Lead or contribute to special projects such as establishing centralized control centers, participating in water augmentation and partnership initiatives, and advancing innovative operational strategies

- Serve as operational backup to peer division directors during absences or periods of increased demand

- Support due diligence efforts for acquisitions and provide operational expertise for business development initiatives across regulated and commercial operations

- Represent the organization with community leaders and regulatory agencies, including delivering credible and effective testimony when required

- Support other projects and responsibilities as requested

What’s required to be successful

- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Management, Biology, or a related field, Master’s degree in Civil Engineering or Business Administration strongly preferred

- 10+ years of progressive leadership experience managing large, complex operations teams within the water and wastewater utility industry

- Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements, compliance obligations, and emerging trends impacting water and wastewater operations

- Proven ability to lead through influence, build strong cross‑functional partnerships, and drive enterprise‑level initiatives

- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and teams

Why EPCOR?

We offer more than just a job - we offer a career with purpose. EPCOR is a place where your work matters, your growth is supported, and your safety is prioritized. Here’s what you can expect when you join our team:

- Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a market-aligned salary and performance-based incentive programs.

- Comprehensive Benefits: Access medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance - plus a retirement plan with substantial company contributions.

- Generous Time-Off & Work-Life Balance: Take advantage of paid vacation, sick time, holidays, personal days, and programs that support your well-being.

- Professional Development: Benefit from tuition reimbursement, certification support, and ongoing training opportunities to grow your career.

- Safety-First Culture: We prioritize your safety through robust training, proactive programs, and recognition of safety milestones.

- Inclusive & Innovative Environment: Be part of a team that values diverse perspectives, celebrates innovation, and fosters a sense of belonging.

- Award-Winning Workplace: EPCOR has been recognized as a Best Places to Work employer – it’s our people who make that possible.

About EPCOR USA

At EPCOR USA, we don’t just deliver water and wastewater services - we invest in communities, protect the environment, and build infrastructure that powers the future. As part of a North American company operating across the United States and Canada, we’re headquartered in Glendale, AZ, and are proud to be one of the largest private water utilities in the Southwest.

Other important facts

- To join EPCOR, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be legally authorized to work in the United States.

- If selected for the role, you must successfully complete a background check, drug screening, professional reference check, previous employer verification, and education verification. Some positions may also require a credit check.

- Some roles may involve working outdoors in various weather conditions and require additional physical capabilities. Positions regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) may also have specific compliance requirements.

EPCOR USA is an equal opportunity employer. We're committed to fostering a respectful, supportive, and inclusive workplace that recognizes and values the unique perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds of all individuals. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.