Director, Water Quality

Aquarion Water Company is the public water supply company for more than 750,000 people in 72 cities and towns throughout Connecticut, as well as serving customers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. It is the largest investor-owned water utility in New England and among the seven largest in the U.S. Based in Bridgeport, CT, it has been in the public water supply business since 1857. Across its operations, Aquarion strives to act as a responsible steward of the environment and to assist the communities it serves in promoting sustainable practices. Aquarion Water Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eversource.

Job Summary

The Director of Water Quality provides leadership to ensure that both regulatory requirements and customer expectations related to water quality are continuously met in Aquarion’s 74 public water systems in three states. This position also plays a lead role in maintaining the company’s reputation with heath regulators in all three states.

Primary responsibility for Water Quality Control Programs. Participates with other functions in acting on water quality issues/risks. Accountable for an annual operating budget of approximately $3.8 million. Accountable for managing a staff of 24 employees.

Principal Responsibilities

- Maintains a comprehensive understanding of current and potential future water quality regulations.

- Ensures compliance with water quality regulations.

- Ensures that the people, processes, and systems (including LIMS and SAMs) are in place to ensure that all required water quality analysis results are collected and reported to regulators.

- Manages the department staff, including defining staff roles and responsibilities; engaging staff to identify and address risks and take advantage of opportunities; working with the HR Department to fill open roles; and providing staff with guidance for their professional development.

- Directs the operations of the Company’s laboratory and the contract/relationship with contract laboratories.

- Manages departmental initiatives and metrics including defining targets; developing and implementing plans/actions to ensure targets are met; and monitoring performance.

- Collaborates with Supply Operations, Utility Operations, and Engineering to address water quality issues (both immediate/emergency and long-term) to ensure that regulatory requirements and customer expectations are satisfied. This requires an understanding of treatment processes and water chemistry. This includes collaborating with operating departments for immediate/emergency issues. This includes collaborating with the Engineering department for long-term issues that require capital solutions.

- Stays apprised of changes in regulatory requirements, risks to water quality compliance, and risks to water aesthetics. Elevate/communicate issues to both operational managers and Senior Management. Collaborate with other departments in developing solutions to issues.

- Responsible for water quality related items on the company’s risk register.

- Leads the Product Quality Team and Lead Steering Committee.

- Provides input on behalf of the Company to State and Federal regulatory agencies during development of water quality regulations that directly impact the Company.

- Liaison with Local, State and Federal Health Agencies, including presenting to the public and public officials, especially about water quality topics.

- Stays abreast of and adheres to all current safety practices in accordance with company policies and industry guidelines and regulations. Expects the same of subordinates.

- Prepares and implements business plans and budgets that ensure achievement of the Company’s mission, as well as the department’s overall goals and initiatives.

- Participates in communication programs in cooperation with the Corporate Communications department.

- Participates in community, industry, and company associations and processes to educate and enhance the Company's reputation.

- Act as a Standby Manager if needed.

Preferred Requirements

- Seven years experience in water quality management, laboratory management and business management.

- Necessary professional skills conducive to managerial integration of dissimilar functions.

- Working knowledge of water chemistry/microbiology, regulations, analytical methods, system operations, and Company and regulatory structure.

- Ability to manage a professional staff and to work effectively with associates including but not limited to customers, regulators, public officials, scientists, and executives.

Education/Certifications

- BS Degree in Science or equivalent.

Salary

- Job is classified as an exempt position with an annual salary range of $146,240 - $182,800.

- After 3 months of successful employment, this role will be eligible for a hybrid schedule (3 days office/2 days remote).

Aquarion Water Company is an equal opportunity employer, and we prohibit discrimination based on age, color, disability, marital or parental status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other legally protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws.