Position Description

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking a supervisor for the Wastewater Source Control section of the Drainage and Wastewater Line of Business. This is a great opportunity to lead a passionate team of staff who work every day to protect public health and the environment, safeguard Seattle’s infrastructure, and achieve the requirements of the Clean Water Act. 

SPU’s Wastewater Source Control programs are well regarded within the industry and known for their commitment to data-driven processes, innovation, and partnership. The Wastewater Source Control section is responsible for 3 source control programs: the Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) Control Program, the Industrial Pretreatment Program, and a newly forming Preferred Pumpers Program. This position is responsible for managing the staff, budget, resources, policies, and procedures associated with these critical SPU programs. These programs are highly visible to the public, especially SPU’s commercial customers, and have the potential to impact the cost of living or operating a business in Seattle. The programs are regulatory in nature and are implemented through the enforcement of city codes. Many aspects of the programs are also implemented through strong collaboration and partnership with King County. The successful candidate for this position will be excited to work with diverse business owners around source control compliance in a service-oriented way.  

 About Seattle Public Utilities (SPU): Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), please visit: 

• SPU Website 
• SPU Workplace Expectations 
• Strategic Business Plan 

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring, and promotional opportunities. 

Why join us?  

We know work isn't only about what you do it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including: 

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment 
• Generous benefits package  
• Free public transportation options 
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions 
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities 

Job Responsibilities

• Provide strong leadership for staff, including support, mentorship, and opportunities for growth. 
• Collaborate effectively with program partners in other departments or agencies, including building and maintaining relationships and working across silos to ensure program success. 
• Understanding the regulatory and enforcement environment of wastewater source control and applying that knowledge to program policies and procedures. 
• Advising staff on the application of regulations in their work. 
• Using culturally appropriate approaches to educate and engage with commercial and industrial customers to motivate a willingness to comply with wastewater source control requirements.
• Leading the development of the new Preferred Pumper Program. 
• Developing and tracking annual work plans and budget, including scheduling staff to cover all required inspections and training throughout the year
• Ensuring programs meet regulatory requirements.  
• Continually improving program inspection and enforcement procedures. 
• Developing processes, systems, and tools to collect, manage, and utilize program data. 
• Coordinating enforcement actions with King County and the City Attorney’s Office.
• Managing consultant resources to support customer engagement and education. 
• Providing briefings to management and sharing information with the media. 

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications

Experience: Minimum of five (5) five years civil engineering experience including two years supervisory experience.

Education: An Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology or two years of college level coursework in engineering and construction technology.

Education and Experience Equivalency: Combinations of appropriate education, training, certification, and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability to the minimum education and experience requirements. 

Desired Qualifications:

Ideal candidates demonstrate all or most of the following:

• Knowledge of: 
  • legal and enforcement environment of wastewater source control, 
  • stormwater and wastewater collection systems, and
  • commercial and industrial discharges and their potential impacts on infrastructure and the environment. 
• Ability to: 
  • build relationships with work colleagues and external partners, 
  • listen to, consider, and incorporate others’ ideas, 
  • share expertise, wisdom, and ideas with others, 
  • build a culture of trust within a team, 
  • maintain well-organized program documentation, 
  • manage multiple, concurrent tasks effectively, and
  • learn and continually improve over time. 
• Commitment to: 
  • prioritize equity, 
  • serve the public and protect the environment. 

Additional Information

How to Apply: In addition to fully completing the online application, please attach your resume and cover letter. Your cover letter should address your knowledge and experience related to the position. 

Workplace Environment: This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Starting January 2, 2025, City employees will have the option to work remotely two days a week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.

The full salary range for this position is $60.26 - $67.46 per hour.

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holidays, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. 

If you have any questions, please contact Charles Gilmore at charles.gilmore2@seattle.gov

Learn more about Seattle Public Utilities at our web page www.seattle.gov/util/.